BIF Brighton Italian Festival is back!
This May Brighton wears the colors of Italy!
ExCo
The Brighton Italian Festival Returns This May with the BIF Fringe 2026
After sell-out shows and over 1,000 people involved in its debut edition, the Brighton Italian Festival (BIF) Fringe returns this May for its second year — bigger, bolder, and even more vibrant.
Taking place throughout May across Brighton, the festival celebrates Italian culture through music, theatre, food, opera and interactive family events — blending Mediterranean energy with Brighton’s creative spirit.
This year’s programme features returning favourites alongside exciting new additions.
Programme Highlights:
3rd May – Pottery Gagliano Workshop
9th May – Festival Launch Party: Live Music, DJ + Guests (Horatio Bar, Brighton Palace Pier)
9th & 10th May – Lucifero on Tour (irreverent theatre)
9th & 10th May – A Wander Fool Word (interactive kids’ clown show)
10th May – Betty Accorsi Jazz Quartet (Horatio Bar)
11th May – Opera Viva (semi-interactive Italian opera)
28th May – Spaghetti Disco: DJ, live music & spaghetti (Hotel Pelirocco)
31st May – I Colori del Sole: Sicilian Folk Choir + Sicilian food
Throughout the month, local partners Pizza 500 and Crocodile Café will host a culinary “Giro d’Italia”, presenting regional Italian menus that change weekly — offering audiences a true taste of Italy from north to south.
Accessible for All
Tickets start from just £5, with a special “One for All” Festival Pass available for £50, giving access to seven events — an accessible way to experience the full programme.
Festival Director William Ranieri says: “The Brighton Italian Festival was born to build cultural bridges. After the incredible response last year, we are proud to return with a programme that mixes tradition, experimentation and community. Brighton has embraced Italian culture — and this is just the beginning.”
The BIF Fringe aims to become a permanent fixture in Brighton’s cultural calendar, supporting international artists while collaborating with local venues, schools and businesses.
For interviews, features or media accreditation, please contact:
Website: www.brightonitalianfestival.com