East Sussex Set For Largest Ever Celebration For Older Residents

Street dancing, accessible sport and even a Spanish-themed afternoon are among more than 80 events taking place across East Sussex this autumn, as part of the county’s biggest-ever celebration of older people.

The Full of Life Festival runs throughout September and October, marking International Older People’s Day on October 1. Now in its 18th year, the programme is the largest since the initiative began, with activities designed for the over-50s.

Organised by East Sussex County Council with support from the East Sussex Seniors’ Association (ESSA), the festival aims to help older people connect with others, stay active, and explore new interests.

Events include dance and art workshops, film screenings, walks, singalongs, wellbeing talks, seated exercise and chair-based yoga. Active Age Health MOTs — offering balance and grip tests alongside advice on staying fit — will also be available.

Highlights include Defiant Sports’ Festival of Accessible Sport in Eastbourne, “First Time for Everything” street dancing and nature sessions from the Royal Voluntary Service, and a Spanish-themed afternoon in Seaford with tapas, sangria and a language lesson.

Lin Neeve, Chair of ESSA, said:

“The events on offer through the Full of Life programme are all designed to help people stay physically, emotionally and socially active as they get older, and there really is something for everyone.”

Cllr Carl Maynard, East Sussex County Council’s Lead Member for Adult Social Care and Health, added:

“This year marks 18 years of the East Sussex events programme to celebrate Older People’s Day, and I am delighted that we are once again supporting such a varied range of activities across the county.”

Events will be held in towns including Bexhill, Crowborough, Eastbourne, Hailsham, Hastings, Newhaven, Rye, Seaford, Uckfield and Winchelsea.

Full listings are available at eastsussex.gov.uk/olderpeoplesday.

Booklets with event details and year-round health and wellbeing information can also be picked up from libraries, council buildings and leisure centres.