More than 1,400 people attended the Haywards Heath Pop Up Cinema on Saturday 4 July, with over 700 people enjoying each screening in Victoria Park. The free community event proved to be a resounding success, bringing together families, friends and visitors of all ages for an unforgettable day of entertainment.
The films were selected by local residents through an online public survey, ensuring the programme reflected the preferences of the Haywards Heath community and giving audiences the opportunity to enjoy two much-loved favourites together.
The afternoon began as families and groups of friends transformed Victoria Park into a colourful sea of picnic blankets, camping chairs, umbrellas and sunshades. Making the most of the summer weather, visitors settled into their own cosy viewing spaces, enjoying ice creams and cooling refreshments while watching the first film of the day, The Greatest Showman.
The relaxed atmosphere continued throughout the afternoon, with many visitors choosing to stay in Victoria Park between screenings. Children made the most of the open space, running, playing games and dancing with friends, while others enjoyed food and drinks from the wide range of local vendors on site. The park remained full of excitement and anticipation as audiences waited for the evening’s showing of Mamma Mia.
Visitors enjoyed a fantastic selection of food and refreshments from a range of local vendors throughout the day. Burgess Hill Bonfire Society served a popular selection of burgers and jumbo sausages, while Falafel Box Ltd offered freshly prepared falafel dishes. Those with a sweet tooth were able to enjoy delicious treats and freshly brewed coffee from Graze & Grind, and Mid Sussex Supercream proved a popular choice for visitors looking to cool down with an ice cream in the summer sunshine. The Hop Sun also kept refreshments flowing from the licensed bar, helping to create a relaxed festival atmosphere that visitors enjoyed throughout the day. With such a wide variety of food and drink on offer, there was something to suit every taste.
As the sun began to set, more than 700 people gathered for the evening screening of Mamma Mia. The atmosphere grew throughout the film, culminating in a joyous finale as audience members rose to their feet for the iconic closing musical numbers. Families, friends and neighbours sang and danced together, turning Victoria Park into one giant open-air celebration and bringing the event to a memorable close.
While admission was free, the Pop Up Cinema also raised over an impressive £1,100, helping to support the Mayor’s Charity of the Year, Kangaroos Mid Sussex. The donations raised will help support the charity’s valuable work providing social and recreational opportunities for children and adults with learning disabilities and complex needs.
Haywards Heath Town Council would like to thank everyone who attended, as well as the volunteers, local businesses, food vendors and event partners whose support helped make the day such a tremendous success.
A spokesperson from the Town Council said: “What a wonderful day for Haywards Heath. It was fantastic to see so many people come together to enjoy free entertainment in the heart of our town. Watching hundreds of people singing and dancing together at the end of the evening was something truly special and a perfect example of what community events are all about. Thank you to everyone who attended and to everyone who worked so hard behind the scenes to make the Pop Up Cinema such a success.”
Following the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from attendees, Haywards Heath Town Council will review the potential return of the Pop Up Cinema as part of its future events programme. Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on the Town Council’s website and social media channels for any future updates and announcements.
By Kelly Lewis
