An all-day celebration of local reggae sound system culture, bringing together music, food, film and community — from daytime exploration to

Sound System Culture Day – Hidden Beach Summer of Culture

All-Day Programme · Late August · Hastings

A full day dedicated to reggae sound system culture — rooted in community, powered by bass, and led by the South Coast’s local sound systems.

This all-day session brings together 3–4 sound systems to showcase the depth, history, and living culture of reggae, dub, and roots music in Hastings and beyond. From daytime exploration to evening dance, the programme moves through sound, story, food, and collective experience.

The day begins with a relaxed, open environment focused on the roots and meaning of sound system culture. Expect film screenings exploring reggae, dub, and UK sound system heritage, alongside conversations and stories from local selectors and sound system operators. There will be moments to experience the sound systems up close — understanding how they are built, how they move sound, and why they matter. Food will be available throughout the day, creating a social, community-led atmosphere.

As the day progresses, the energy begins to build. Selectors step in, systems warm up, and the space shifts from listening into movement. Across the afternoon, multiple sound systems rotate through roots, reggae, dub and lovers rock selections, creating a welcoming, open environment for all ages.

As evening arrives, the session moves fully into dance. Three to four sound systems take control of the space, each bringing their own stack, style and identity. Expect heavyweight bass, MCs and selectors in full flow, and a crowd connected through rhythm and shared experience.

This is not just a session — it’s a platform for local culture, sound system heritage and community expression. Part of the Hidden Beach Summer of Culture, the alldayer brings together music, food, knowledge and people, celebrating reggae’s legacy while showcasing the local scene that continues to carry it forward.

Description supplied by the event organiser.