Lewes Festival of Democracy
4th July 2026, 1-6pm
Lewes will burst into colour, music and celebration as the town marks the 250th anniversary year of the Declaration of Independence with a joyful Festival of Democracy inspired by its most famous radical, Thomas Paine.
Presented in partnership by Thomas Paine: Legacy and the Lewes Climate Hub, the festival will bring together artists, musicians, schools, campaigners, community groups and residents in a bold programme of public events.
The centrepiece will be a vibrant Procession of Democracy through the centre of Lewes on Saturday 4th July, gathering from 1pm at Westgate Car Park. The parade will be led by Tom Paine’s Bones — an eight-foot walking skeleton created by visual artist Polyp — alongside banners, musicians, costumes and performers celebrating movements for rights, freedom and social change across history.
The procession will culminate at Lewes Castle Gun Garden at 3pm, where music, speeches and performances will continue until 6pm.
Further details to be announced shortly
Hidden Project by Red Saunders
Bull House is hosting a collection of images from Red Saunders’ The Hidden Project — a powerful series of radical photographic tableaux that bring history’s overlooked heroes into the light.
Red Saunders, an acclaimed artist and photographer, is known for blending his creative practice with a lifelong commitment to cultural, musical, and political activism. A founding member of Rock Against Racism, Red’s work has consistently challenged injustice and celebrated the power of collective action.
The Hidden Project reimagines pivotal moments in the long struggle for democracy and social justice — from the Peasants’ Revolt (1381) and the Women Levellers’ Movement (1647) to the Swing Riots (1830) and London Chartists (1842). Each striking scene is meticulously staged and lit, brought to life with the help of local community participants. You’ll also spot a certain Thomas Paine, out on his horse, working as an Excise Officer.
Join us as Bull House shines a light on the radicals, dissenters, and visionaries too often written out of history.
Entry is free. Posters and postcards will be available to purchase in the shop.
