The Big Nibble
HDC at Carfax Local Markets
Sept. 6, 2026 | 10 a.m.
Celebrate local flavours at The Big Nibble 2026! Prepare your taste buds for a spectacular culinary showcase as this landmark food and drink festival takes over Horsham town centre's historic Carfax on Sunday, 6 September 2026, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Organised in partnership by Food Rocks, the team behind our beloved weekly Carfax Local Markets, and Horsham District Council, this year's event builds on the incredible success of the regional Sussex Six market, presenting an outstanding lineup of Sussex producers, global street food, and immersive family experiences.
A key highlight of the festival is the Live Cookery Theatre, featuring masterclasses from top regional chefs using fresh local ingredients, hosted by renowned food guru Hilary Knight. Other local businesses will also be giving talks. Several Visit Horsham members are in the spotlight: Venessa Alexander, Firebird Brewery, Josh Mann, Camellia at South Lodge, Tom Bartle, Botanica at South Lodge, Lawrence McCarthy, Felix Bistro and David Howard, Cabin Pressure Spirits.
The Little Notes' fruit and veg band returns to the bandstand, hosting three interactive musical sessions for pre-school children and families from 11:00 am to 3:50 pm. It is the perfect family entertainment to round out your afternoon of food tasting.
Don't limit your experience to the main market; the entire town is coming alive! Head over to East Mews to visit Beeches Buffet, our local, family-run café that has been serving up delicious homemade food for over 20 years, as they participate in Town Centre Tasters on the day. For a truly unique discovery, stop by the Carfax store of Crates Local Produce, housed in a historic 16th-century building, to sample premium regional treats and farm-fresh items sourced within a 40-mile radius. While in the town centre, take the opportunity to dine with our members, from the sophisticated, sharing-style European-Asian plates at FELIX bistro in Market Square to the flavourful, authentic Greek dishes at Urban Fuse Kitchen & Bar on Middle Street.
You can also explore the Tap & Vine Takeover Trail, organised by Firebird Brewing Co, Your Horsham, and Visit Horsham. The weekend trail loops through 17 town venues championing regional craft drinks. It's the perfect opportunity to raise a glass to outstanding local liquid assets, including Plummers Plain's own Cabin Pressure Spirits, famed for their vacuum-distilled Horsham Spirit gin, or plan a luxurious weekend dinner at South Lodge Hotel & Spa in Lower Beeding, known for Michelin-starred farm-to-table culinary experiences.