Brighton’s annual Mod Weekender has commenced for 2026, featuring live entertainment, scooter displays, and a vibrant social gathering.

The event combines free daytime activities at the Volks Club with evening paid performances at Komedia.

Organised by Rob Bailey, a founding member of The New Untouchables, the gathering attracts participants nationally and internationally.

Bailey transported his personal 1962 Vespa GS scooter for the occasion, with the vehicle potentially participating in Sunday’s scheduled scooter competition and group ride.

Thursday’s sold-out performance by The Rifles and Maze at Komedia marked the opening of ticketed programming at the venue, which hosts the majority of paid events throughout the weekend.

Friday’s lineup featured London-based ensemble The Forty Fours alongside France’s Child of Panoptes, followed by a Mod Dance Party continuing until 3am.

International and domestic attendees have converged on the seaside location.

John and Loreto, aged 66 and 63 respectively, travelled from York to participate.

Regular attendees at mod gatherings, including a recent weekend event in Scarborough, the couple looked forward to late-night entertainment at Komedia.

John acquired his initial Lambretta in 1977 and brought a second model purchased 15 years prior.

Penny, 38, from London and Alex, 31, from Cumbria noted they had attended the Brighton Mod Weekender for the past 15 years, describing it as an established tradition.

The pair enjoyed The Rifles’ performance at Komedia and viewed the event as an opportunity to reconnect with acquaintances from the mod community.

Alex and Rita, both 21 and local to the Brighton area, arrived at the Volks Club eager to engage with the 1960s and Ska programming.

Both expressed particular anticipation for Pascoe’s appearance at the Hope and Ruin and Benson and the Sapphires’ performance at Komedia on Sunday.

A vintage marketplace operating alongside live programming offers an array of 1960s and mod-related merchandise.

The event contributes to Brighton’s established relationship with mod culture.