The Great Escape takes place in Brighton from 19th - 21st May and kick starts the festival season, introducing the artists and sounds of 2016. With over 400 bands playing in 30 venues over 3 days. In addition to pre-publicised performances, impromptu street gigs spring up all over town. The Alternative Escape, numerous club nights, label parties, industry showcases, unique collaborations and outdoor gigs all add to the festivities.

This year for the first time, in a true festival takeover of the city, Brighton’s roads will become venues themselves as musicians and performance artists take to the streets for the launch of ‘The Great Escape Street Party’. Jubilee Street will be closed off to traffic for all 3 days of the festival whilst New Road will be pedestrianised on 19-20 May, with both roads featuring an array of music, art, pop-up performance and busking spots. There will also be an array of mouth-watering food and drink stalls to keep everyone fed and watered over the course of the weekend.