Observer column 8 July 2022

Time for some summer fun

Time to be positive about the joys of living in Hastings. There is so much going on, mainly organised by our amazing creative communities, that I thought this week's column could helpfully act as a reminder about events you might miss otherwise.
 
Its festival season and we are lucky to have a series of unique events here, that show off a great feature of this town, that its ok to be whoever you want to be.

This weekend it is the 17th St Leonards Festival at Warrior Square Gardens, a free all day (12 to 10pm) showcase of all that's great about diverse St Leonards, with local community performers and artists alongside great names from around the world.
 
The following weekend is Pirate Day! Or rather, Pirate weekend this year, as there are a host of events over the weekend to enjoy. Since setting the world record for pirates in one place in 2012, this brilliant celebration of Hastings has gone from strength to strength. Free music stages this year at both the Stade and the Pier from around 12 on the Sunday, as well as many other activities all over town on both Saturday and Sunday.
 
There are also loads of other cultural treats over the next week, with interesting exhibitions worth catching at Electro Studios, Hastings Museum and Art Gallery and Stella Dore Gallery, regular music evenings at The Nest, great DJs at the return of The Locomotion, art and fitness classes at Art in the Park, a new rocking vinyl shop on Silchester Road and weekly new music nights on Thursdays at The Beacon.
 
The school holidays will be soon upon us, and there are plenty of free children's activities all over town. Check out what Active Hastings are offering and go to the East Sussex County Council website for their Holiday Food and Fun page to find activities near you. These are free for children who normally get free school meals. Book early to ensure places for your kids.
 
Just one note of caution while having summer fun. COVID-19 rates are rising fast here again, so take care wherever you are, and if you feel ill, think of others, and please stay at home.
 
I will be at as many events myself as I can manage, so come and say hello, and do tell me about other special things I can help you promote later this summer.
 
Enjoy our wonderful town!