Brighton is well known for having a transient nature, so anything that stands the test of time can rightly be proud. The Sunday Almanac is celebrating its ten-year anniversary on Sunday, January 28. Calling it a pub disco does it a massive disservice, but in the simplest terms that’s what it is – that, and yet so much more. If you’ve stumbled across the St George’s Inn on the last Sunday of the month, a corner boozer just down from the Royal Sussex Hospital in Kemptown, then you’ll know what I mean.
The brainchild of two DJs, Chris and Dom, its longevity has surprised even them. As Chris says: “What started with a smallish group of friends, has grown, and changed beyond belief. The age range and diversity of the participants is the broadest of anything we’ve been involved with. It’s a safe, LGBTQ+, dog friendly, non-discriminatory space for people who love a laugh, a gossip, a sing-a-long, and a dance. Anyone is welcome.”
The music policy is just as broad, as Dom describes: “When asked what kind of stuff we play, it’s tricky to answer. Where else can you hear Fleetwood Mac followed by Soulwax, then Julie Andrews, Midland, Amanda Lear, Kraftwerk, and Kelis.”
The venue has also been a key part of its success, says Chris: “Tucked away in the side streets of Kemptown, with two bars and an outside area, it has a lovely vibe.” The Almanacs have become an integral part of the local scene, hosting New Year’s Eve and Pride parties free of charge.
They survived the lockdown by going online on their Facebook page and making all their playlists available on Spotify for everyone to enjoy. So, if you think the Almanac might be for you, you can check out the vibe there anytime.
But if you’re free this coming Sunday, throw on some pearls, grab a fan, and head on over to the St George. You’ll most definitely be welcome. As Chris and Dom both say: “It’s brilliant when people arrive, throw off their coats, and just join in.”
