Lots of students at Sussex love getting involved in the Holi celebration during our One World Week activities

There are lots of fun things coming up through the year to look forward to, from significant milestones to vibrant cultural celebrations. Whether you're nearing the end of your academic journey or just starting out, these events offer something for everyone.

Here are some highlights to mark on your calendar:

Refreshers

The Students’ Union has planned an incredible and varied programme to welcome you back to the second term. From pub quizzes, musical bingo and a roller disco to the re-opening of Mandella Hall as an events venue with Roots Garden and Magenta HiFi.

If you haven’t joined a society yet, this is your chance to explore the 150 student groups and societies in the Freshers Fair on Thursday 30 January at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts (ACCA) and the Sports Centre. Book your ticket on the Students’ Union website.

Valentine’s at Sussex

The Student Centre is organising a fun programme of activities to celebrate Valentine’s a little differently this year. On Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 February, drop in anytime between 11am and 3pm to enjoy a range of completely free activities designed to help you relax, recharge, and spread a little love — whether it’s for yourself, your friends, or the planet. Activities include meeting cuddly animals, film screenings, climate events, crafts, free food, and more.

One World Week

Run collaboratively by the University and the Students’ Union, One World Week is a celebration of the cultural diversity of Sussex. From promoting understanding and celebrating cultural festivals to raising awareness of global issues, it showcases the best of our campus community spirit.

This year’s One World Week runs from Monday 10 March to Sunday 16 March 2025. Events and activities will be advertised across both the Students’ Union website and the Student Hub. We will soon share information on how you can apply for funding to host an event. By hosting an event or activity you may be able to log 10 or 15 points for your Spirit of Sussex Award in the Creativity and Culture category, depending on your level of responsibility.

Brighton Festival

The University of Sussex is a Higher Education partner for the Brighton Festival, running from Saturday 3 to Monday 26 May. It’s the largest curated annual arts festival in England and it takes place in familiar and unusual locations across Brighton & Hove and further afield for three weeks every May. Whether you like music, theatre, dance, circus, art, film, literature, debate, outdoor and community events, Brighton Festival has something for everyone.

Graduation

Sussex graduation ceremonies are always the highlight of the year, when we celebrate with families and friends not just academic success but also all the hard work and determination that led to it.

Our graduations are also very different from most other universities. They are a reflection of our wonderfully diverse community and they are filled with the spirit of Sussex: fun, joyful and memorable moments, which usually involved some sort of dancing moves across the stage.

Winter graduation will take place from Wednesday 22 January until Friday 24 January 2025 in the Brighton Centre, while summer graduation will take place from Monday 21 July until Friday 25 July 2025.

Brighton Pride

Every year the UK’s biggest Pride festival attracts visitors from around the world to enjoy a vibrant array of events, including the iconic Pride LGBTQ+ Community Parade that runs through the city.

Brighton Pride is a joyous commemoration of the brave trailblazers, campaigners and supporters who shaped the Pride movement in the city and helped achieve LGBTQ+ equality.