Brighton is so much more than fun fairs, fish 'n' chips and pebble beaches, that's for sure. And if you ever needed evidence of this, now's the time to hop on a train and go south, or wherever you come from. For the next few weeks, Brighton Festival are making an effort to attract more than sunbathing tourists. The month of May might not be the warmest time around, but it's perfect for a cultural celebration and a foray into gastronomical heights. The festival's guest Artistic Director  Brian Eno performed last weekend, on the same day as drag queen starlet Jonny Woo hosted a hilarious version of his Gay Bingo. Now Brighton eagerly awaits the appearances of Matthew Stone (with friends), Bourgeois & Maurice and Justin Bond until the festival closes on the 23rd of May.

Brighton also have the privilege of hosting HQ at Brighton Dome, a  pop up social club with a menu designed by London restaurant Bistrotheque's. The HQ resides in the beautiful Dome as a lunchtime canteen, serving up delicious yet simple food. With over 240 performances planned, Brighton Festival have as such not only brought art and music to town, but also great food. And lastly, while there, don't forget to look up towards the skies: set designer Gary Card have crowned the HQ with a glass installation in the ceiling and another one in the bar, through his specially designed limited edition Dark Star beer bottles, ensuring you'll leave happy in every way possible. The glass installation is a "reflection on biology, travel, sexuality, geography, and nature. Each viewer who ponders the piece will have his or her own response".  With Card, Woo, Stone and Bistrotheque's Pablo Flack running around town, Brighton is now not only a haven for sun bathers, but a cultural feast for all senses.

This Saturday Bourgeois & Maurice will perform at the HQ when Bistrotheque puts on one of its legendary Supper Clubs, which this time - except for the razor sharp cabaret duo - will offer local produce and delicious seafood: well worth a visit!

Check out the Brighton Festival website for more info and a full line up