Brighton and Hove is host to England's biggest festival of the arts, featuring theatre, dance, music, opera, book events, and outdoor spectaculars. May 1-24, 2004. (www.brighton-festival.org.uk or www.brightonfringe.net). The city is a buzz with activity including fringe events and street performers.

One of the highlights of May is the opportunity to experience many diverse styles of art. Brighton is home to hundreds of artists, photographers and crafts people and during weekends throughout the festival, artists open up their homes to the public and display their work. Visitors and residents are invited to follow the Open House art trails, there are over a 100 houses to explore.