Hastings is preparing to welcome back its flagship winter music event — the Hastings Fat Tuesday Festival, running from Friday 13th to Tuesday 17th February 2026. This five-day town-wide celebration promises a vibrant mix of free gigs, parades, parties, and ticketed events, showcasing both internationally acclaimed artists and the best of Hastings’ thriving local music scene.
Unconvention: Ideas, Insight and Connection for the Music Community
The festival opens on Friday 13th February with Unconvention, a one-day grassroots music conference at The White Rock Theatre Studio. Designed for artists, industry professionals, promoters, educators, and anyone passionate about music, the event features panels led by experienced voices from across the sector.
Sessions will explore topics such as gigging, funding opportunities, and building sustainable careers in music. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, Unconvention offers a welcoming space to learn, share ideas, and make new connections.
The day wraps up with a networking session, offering a relaxed environment to meet collaborators, spark new projects, and celebrate the start of the festival.
Le Grand Mardi Gras Ball: A Night to Remember
Following the daytime Unconvention conference, the White Rock Theatre transforms into a dazzling party venue for the Le Grand Mardi Gras Ball. Early bird tickets are available for £25, and revellers are encouraged to dress to impress for the return of the Best Dressed Competition.
This year’s lineup is nothing short of electric:
- Republica, the iconic techno-pop punk-rock powerhouse, will headline with hits like Ready to Go and Drop Dead Gorgeous.
- Saidi Kanda & Mvula-Mandondo will bring a joyful fusion of East African traditional music and modern rhythms.
- The Brass Funkeys, fresh from winning the Haizetera International Festival, will deliver their signature New Orleans swagger and genre-hopping grooves.
- Heavenly Jukebox DJs Danny and Daisy will keep the dancefloor alive with genre-spanning gems.
- Late-night partygoers can head downstairs to Studio 27 for a set by Lemur Beats, blending house, techno, afro-disko, and global funk.
A Town-Wide Celebration
Beyond Friday’s conference and ball, the Hastings Fat Tuesday Festival continues with a packed programme of live music and community events across the town. Highlights include the Saturday Unplugged Tour, Sunday’s Umbrella Parade, and the legendary Fat Tuesday Tour on Tuesday night, where dozens of bands perform short sets in multiple venues in rapid succession. With over 350 gigs expected across 30+ venues, the festival offers something for everyone — from family-friendly fun to late-night revelry — all celebrating the spirit of Mardi Gras, Hastings-style.