Brighton Festival confirms theme for 2026 Children’s Parade

Inspired by 2026 as the National Year of Reading, the theme will explore six genres of children’s books: realistic fiction, historical fiction, fantasy, traditional stories, science fiction and graphic novels & picture books.

Jointly produced with award-winning community arts charity Same Sky, the Children’s Parade officially marks the opening of Brighton Festival, a three-week celebration of arts and culture across Brighton, Hove and East Sussex taking place from May 2-25.

Lucy Davies, chief executive, Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival, said: “The family-friendly, free event takes place in central Brighton, delighting thousands of participants and spectators, and is the largest parade of its kind in Europe. Hundreds of teachers from participating schools across Brighton & Hove will work with their pupils to create large-scale artworks and costumes to display throughout the Parade’s route and support children to learn through making.

“2026 marks the 40th Children’s Parade. It’s been estimated that more than 150,000 people have taken part since the parade began in 1986. This year a dedicated Same Sky artist will work with each participating school, including an in-person visit, giving local children the opportunity to learn from a professional artist.

“Same Sky are also introducing new ways to support teachers, including – in partnership with Create Music – offering samba masterclasses with percussion expert Ollie Tunmer (former cast member of STOMP) to help teachers incorporate live music into the parade.”

Lucy added: “The Children’s Parade is part of Brighton’s identity – a vivid, collective, public act of imagination and ambition that unites schools, families and communities across the city. As we mark an incredible 40 years, this year’s theme puts storytelling at the centre. This celebration belongs to the city, and we’re so proud to help bring it to our streets again.”

Jane McMorrow, interim CEO at Same Sky, said: “We’re incredibly proud to mark 40 years of the Children’s Parade, a creative tradition that brings the whole city together. With this year’s theme of children’s literature, pupils and teachers will have the opportunity to let imaginations run wild. We can’t wait.”

The Children’s Parade 2026 will be supported by independent school Brighton Girls.

Brighton Festival’s programming team, led by CEO Lucy Davies, will announce the full programme for its 60th edition on February 18 2026.

Packed with exciting performances from across the globe and cultural spectrum, the Festival promises a range of new and thrilling experiences for Brighton Festival regulars and newcomers too.