Littlehampton’s independent business community is coming together this spring to launch a vibrant new Arts & Crafts Festival, bringing creativity, community and fresh energy into the heart of the town.
The festival, led by Sam of Magpies & Butterflies, begins on Saturday 27 March, launching with crafters at the Friday Market, and continues through to 10 April with a packed programme of workshops, demonstrations and family-friendly activities across the town centre.
Bringing together independent businesses from across Littlehampton, the festival has been developed through collaboration with the Littlehampton Business Forum, with a shared ambition to encourage more people into the town and celebrate the creativity of its growing independent scene.
Sam, festival organiser and creative business owner based in the Littlehampton Arcade, said: “I was really inspired to make this happen because it feels like such a positive step for Littlehampton. As a small business owner, I love being part of something that brings creativity into the town centre. For me, it’s about connection — with other businesses, with the community, and with people who may not have discovered us yet.”
She added: “It’s been amazing working alongside other independent businesses and through the Littlehampton Business Forum. There’s a real sense of support and shared purpose. When we come together like this, we can create something much bigger than we could on our own.”
The programme includes a mix of free and low-cost activities designed to encourage visitors to explore the town centre, including rock painting trails, clay taster sessions, community banner making, mirror decorating, and Easter biscuit decorating workshops.
The opening event will see families take part in free rock painting, with decorated stones then placed around the town to create an interactive trail — encouraging movement, exploration and a shared sense of place.
Local businesses say the festival is not only about creativity, but also about helping to reshape how people see Littlehampton.
Susana, owner of Birds of Paradise Deli, said: “Events like this can attract more people into Littlehampton and really help local businesses. It’s a great opportunity to bring new trade into the town and reach thousands of new customers.
What makes Littlehampton special is how friendly the shop owners are — there’s always a warm, upbeat atmosphere, with a real mix of arts, crafts and cafés all working together.”
Daina of Daina Art Studio added:
“Creativity is at the heart of everything I do, from teaching art classes to creating handmade ceramics. Craft brings people together, supports wellbeing, and gives people of all ages a way to express themselves. In a town like Littlehampton, that creates identity, pride and something genuinely unique.”
She added: “Events like this bring life, energy and new visitors into the town. They give people a reason to come, explore and stay longer, and show that Littlehampton is growing and investing in creativity.”
Supporting the initiative, Richard Groome, Chair of the Littlehampton Business Forum, said: “This festival is a brilliant example of what can happen when passionate local business owners take the lead and bring people together. As we build towards Littlehampton’s Town of Culture ambitions, it’s these grassroots, creative initiatives that really matter.
The Business Forum is here to support and connect businesses, but the real energy comes from individuals like Sam who are willing to step forward and make things happen. This festival shows exactly what’s possible when a community works together.”
With growing interest in community-led events and cultural experiences, organisers hope the Arts & Crafts Festival will attract new visitors, support independent businesses and contribute to a renewed sense of pride in Littlehampton’s town centre.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the full programme via the Magpies & Butterflies Facebook page, where event details and updates will be shared throughout the festival.
