Black Brighton

On Saturday, October 5th, 2024, The Actors Pub in Brighton came alive with vibrant colours, diverse sounds, and the rich tapestry of Black culture as the Black Brighton Market celebrated its second anniversary. This momentous event coincided with Black History Month, making it an even more significant occasion for the local community and beyond.

The market showcased an impressive array of 13 local traders, each bringing their unique flair and offerings in art, wellness, homeware and fashion. Shoppers had the chance to explore a dynamic mix of handcrafted jewellery, stunning artwork, ethically-made clothing, and wellness products, all curated to uplift and highlight the creativity and talent within the Black community. Each stall told a story of dedication, culture, and identity, making for an enriching shopping experience that encouraged attendees to support local businesses.

One of the standout features of the celebration was a captivating performance by AFLO. The Poet, a renowned poet known for her powerful verses that echo the struggles and triumphs of the Black community. As she took the stage, her words resonated deeply with the audience, inviting reflection on history and current events, resilience, and hope for the future. Her performance was not just entertainment; it was a call to celebrate identity and acknowledge the narratives that shape our collective experience.

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere the event featured an electrifying open mic segment showcasing the talent of Jamaican-Canadian poet Kevan, known as Scruffmouth. His dynamic and engaging performance resonated with attendees, echoing themes of resilience and cultural pride that are integral to the experience of the diaspora.

Food played a vital role in the festivities, with The Caribbean Kitchen serving up a delectable menu that transported guests to the flavourful streets of the Caribbean. From jerk chicken to veggie/vegan options, attendees savoured every bite while enjoying the lively atmosphere that filled the pub. Adding to the excitement, customers were treated to Nando’s vouchers, allowing them to indulge in even more culinary delights after the event.

The Black Brighton Market also made sure to uplift its traders by providing free goodies from LUSH, contributing to a festive spirit that enhanced community connections. These thoughtful touches demonstrated a commitment to not only celebrate culture but also to support the vendors who work tirelessly to bring their products to the public. They were also sent home with a box of Nando’s so their bank and belly was full from the day.

This year’s anniversary event was more than just a market; it was a celebration of Black history, heritage, and community spirit. The Black Brighton Market has become a vital space for expression and commerce, fostering connections among artists, entrepreneurs, and customers while highlighting the significance of supporting local Black-owned businesses.

As the day drew to a close, attendees left with their arms filled with unique finds, their hearts full of inspiration, and a sense of pride in the vibrant culture that Brighton has to offer. The success of this event is a testament to the power of community and the importance of celebrating diversity in all its forms.

The Black Brighton Market looks forward to continuing its mission of elevating Black voices and providing a platform for creativity and commerce, ensuring that future events are just as impactful and joyous as this anniversary celebration.

If you would like to trade with Black Brighton Market ( a space for Black people and People of Colour to trade), head to our page ‘Get Involved‘ and get started! To find out when our next market is, we will have a countdown on the Homepage, for any other queries head to our FaQs and to leave feedback go to our contact page… just have a look around the whole website, it’s very informative :)