Events and celebrations are planned across the city this week, marking International Women’s Day (IWD) on Sunday 8 March.
Marked for 115 years all over the world, IWD provides space for everyone to recognise and celebrate women and their achievements as well as raise awareness of the discrimination women face every day.
IWD is about women's equality in all its forms. For some, it is about fighting for women's rights, while for others it is about reinforcing key commitments, celebrating success or organising festive gatherings.
Whatever choices are made, all choices matter and contribute to the thriving global movement focused on women's advancement.
This year’s theme ‘Give to Gain’ encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.
Whether through donations, knowledge, resources, infrastructure, visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring, or time, contributing to women's advancement helps create a more supportive and interconnected world.
When people, organisations and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase.
We can all give our support to gain advancement for women and girls. As individuals, giving support means calling out stereotypes, challenging discrimination, questioning bias and celebrating women's success.
Council leader Bella Sankey said: “I want to wish every woman in Brighton & Hove and beyond a wonderful International Women's Day.
“This year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain’, really drives forward the notion that if we invest our time, our efforts, our resources and care into creating opportunities for women, the results don’t take long to show.
“All over the world we can see women thriving in education, sports, arts and science, being bold and brave and doing things their grandmothers didn’t even dare to dream about with ease and determination.
“International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate all these successes but also to remember that none of them would be possible without the fight for women’s rights and directly oppose those who attempt to supress them or take them away.
“As a city, we are determined to be at the forefront of supporting women, from hosting the women's Rugby World Cup and striving to become UK’s capital for women and girls in sport, to our commitment to our VAWG strategy and ensuring we are a city where girls and women feel safe and seen.
“There’s a variety of events taking place across the city this week, and I encourage everyone to join in to celebrate women and girlhood.”
SheSays: Celebrate International Women's Day!
6pm to 8.30pm, Brighton Dome, Church Street, BN1 1UE
Are you a woman working in digital, tech, or creative industries? Come and join us for an evening with our fantastic speakers talking about their extraordinary journeys in work and life.
Learn more about the free event on Brighton Dome’s website.
International Women’s Day: The Fearless and Fabulous Women of Brighton & Hove
6pm to 7pm, The Old Courtroom
In celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, join author Louise Peskett for an inspiring journey through Brighton & Hove’s remarkable women. Drawing from her book The Fearless and the Fabulous: A Journey Through Brighton & Hove’s Women’s History, Louise brings to life the trailblazers, activists, pioneers and everyday heroes who shaped the city. Includes a Q&A.
Book your ticket on the Brighton Museums’ website.
International Women’s Day celebration with Network of International Women
11am to 4pm, Brighton Unitarian Church, New Road, BN1 1UF United Kingdom
Join us for our International Women’s Day 2026 celebration at the Unitarian Church in Brighton.
This vibrant event brings together local organisations, who are working to empower and celebrate women. Visitors can enjoy music, delicious food, activities for children and the chance to connect with inspiring groups doing brilliant work in our community. Everyone is welcome — pop in and enjoy the day.
Learn more about the event on The Network of International Women’s website.
Pop into your local library to explore the specially curated book displays for International Women’s Day.
You can also browse the online Brighton & Hove library catalogue to see our carefully curated collection to borrow or download an eBook or eAudiobook from BorrowBox.
