Visit Gravesham, Discover one of Kent's best kept secrets

Visit Gravesham

Discover one of Kent's best kept secrets

What's On in Kent

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Find what's on in Kent, from coastal festivals, historic celebrations, creative art trails and fun family wildlife activities. Discover ideas for great days out or short breaks, with seasonal and free events to make the most of your visit to the Garden of England.

Kent's coast, countryside and characterful towns will shine in 2026, with fresh experiences, landmark anniversaries and vibrant cultural highlights unfolding across the county. From big moments in art and history to family-friendly adventures, the year promises memorable days out whatever part of Kent you choose to visit. Discover what’s happening today, this weekend and throughout the year below.

What's on along the Kent Coast

Kent’s coastline hosts a wide range of events, from family-friendly festivals and coastal celebrations to large-scale cultural experiences and art installations. In Deal, one of the UK's prettiest seaside towns, the Deal Food and Drinks Festival will be taking over Marine Road with live music, a street food court and beach bar marquee - which is free to visit (26 August - 31 August). Whilst along the coast in Dover, Market Square hosts a programme of free live entertainment on selected dates throughout summer (Until Saturday 26th September). 

If you've ever wanted to explore beneath the White Cliffs of Dover, the Grand Shaft Open Day offers a rare opportunity to discover this amazing example of Napoleonic engineering (20 September). Further down the coast in Folkestone, the newly refurbished Lower Leas Coastal Park has just opened as one of the largest free adventure playgrounds in the South East - with rope ladders and swings, sand diggers and a nautical theme along with a dedicated play zone specially tailored for toddlers.

What’s on in the Kent countryside and towns

Heritage Open Days offer visitors to Kent the chance to discover some of the county's rich history and heritage for free (11 September - 20 September). Whether you're visiting Maidstone, Dover, Deal or Sandwich, Folkestone, Hythe or Dymchurch, this ten-day event offers will allow you to discover some fascinating facts, stories and places that you might not have visited before. From 29 August - 4 October, explore the stunning grounds of Leeds Castle near Maidstone, with its Wellbeing themed sculpture trail, showcasing the connection between art, nature and wellness. Perfect for families, art lovers and visitors wanting to spend time in the great outdoors.

Events in Kent this summer

Scroll down to discover upcoming events across Kent, or use the search filters to find something near you. Explore our snapshot of events this summer and autumn, from military festivals and food experiences to seasonal harvest time events and craft fairs. From castles and vineyards to coastal festivals and family attractions, Kent offers events and experiences throughout the year, and with something happening every week, there's always a new way to enjoy Kent.

Kent is a popular destination for day trips from London and for visitors arriving in the UK via the Channel ports, so events celebrating culture, food, and music are never far away.  

Plan your visit to Kent

If you're planning to attend an event in Kent, you'll find answers below to some common questions to help you make the most of your visit.

Frequently asked questions about events in Kent

What’s on in Kent today or this weekend?

You can find a wide range of events taking place today and this weekend in Kent, including festivals, family-friendly activities and experiences to enjoy by the sea. Use the date filters above, or browse the listings on this page to find something happening near you.

How can I plan a short break around an event?

If you're travelling from outside the county, there are numerous hotels and accommodation choices available. Search & Book Kent Accommodation to plan your stay, whether you choose a coastal town like Dover, Folkestone or Deal, head inland to Maidstone, Sandwich or Hythe or enjoy a riverside stay in Gravesham.  All have their own unique character and local events calendars to keep you busy.

Are there family-friendly events in Kent?

Yes. Kent hosts a wide range of family-friendly events throughout the year, including outdoor adventure activities, festivals, wildlife experiences, heritage attractions and seasonal events. Browse the listings on this page or use the filters above to find family-friendly events taking place near you.

Kent events near me

Whether you're a local resident, day visitor or on holiday, discover what's happening near you by clicking the Map View button or use the area button to find out what's happening nearby.  From coastal towns and historic sites to countryside locations and gardens, you’re never far from an event in Kent.

Kent is located in South East England, making it easy to visit for a day trip or short break from London and nearby counties including Sussex and Surrey.
 
What's on and events in the county of Kent

Number of results:

Number of results: 104

, currently showing 1 to 20.

  1. Apple Fair

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Faversham

    Come and find out all about apples at our apple fair and pick your own fruit from the Brogdale Collections orchards during this special weekend in 2026.

    We have apple tastings, guided tours of the National Fruit Collection, guided tractor tours,…

    Dates

    From:
    3 Oct 2026to4 Oct 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  2. Summer Fun at The Bluebell Cafe

    Type

    Type:

    Childrens Events

    Pembury

    Kids activities
    Now until Friday 28 August - Free activity trail - pick up your clue sheet at The Bluebell Cafe and take back when complete to receive a prize

    Monday 10 - Friday 28 August, Lucky Dip - £1 per go (no booking required)

    Wednesday 12…

    Dates

    From:
    27 July 2026to28 Aug 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  3. The High Weald Walking Festival 2026

    Type

    Type:

    Walking

    Flimwell

    Now in its 9th year, the High Weald Walking Festival is inviting you to get your boots on and explore the High Weald National Landscape, and discover local history and admire breath-taking views.

    Dates

    From:
    12 Sept 2026to20 Sept 2026
  4. Wild Classroom: Outdoor Cooking

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Faversham

    Join us this summer for some fun, food, and fire. Get outdoors and cook over the fire with Wild Classroom, using the very best local, seasonal, and foraged foods. This two-hour workshop will include a tour of Brogdale Collections stunning Heritage…

    Dates

    From:
    18 Aug 2026to19 Aug 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  5. Bewl New Year 10k & 5k

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Lamberhurst

    Whilst the mornings are still crisp and cold, come and celebrate your New Year beside the water at Bewl. With a clean slate and renewed energy for the year ahead, enjoy striking out along the Bewl Water trail, winding between the trees and taking in…

    Dates

    From:
    10 Jan 2027Open 09:30 - 12:00
  6. Jousting at Hever Castle

    Type

    Type:

    Heritage & History

    Edenbridge

    This summer the Knights of Royal England will be entertaining visitors with exhilarating displays of action, stunts, falls and fights in an authentic arena complete with a Royal Box. Battling it out in the saddle and on foot in a traditional form of…

    Dates

    From:
    11 July 2026to31 Aug 2026Open 10:30 - 18:00
  7. Go Wild with Wilder Holiday Club this summer!

    Type

    Type:

    Childrens Events

    Bradbourne Vale Road, Sevenoaks

    About the event
    Our award winning Holiday Club will be returning to Oak Lodge, Sevenoaks, this summer!

    Immerse your child in nature
    Our Wilder Holiday Club offers days crammed full of activities designed to inspire and develop your child's love of…

    Dates

    From:
    19 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
    From:
    20 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
  8. The Mushroom Show Outdoor Theatre

    Type

    Type:

    Theatre

    Bedgebury Road, Goudhurst

    Award winning Scratchworks Theatre Company brings together science, music and interactive fun for the whole family in this outdoor theatre performance. The Mushroom Show has toured all-round the UK and we can't wait to experience it at Bedgebury in…

    Dates

    From:
    1 Sept 2026Open 11:00 - 12:30
  9. Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition

    Type

    Type:

    Exhibitions

    Chatham

    Experience the ocean like never before at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, as it hosts the UK debut of the Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition.

    Showcasing 116 award-winning photographs, this inspiring exhibition brings together the very best in…

    Venue

    The Historic Dockyard Chatham, Medway Towns

    Dates

    From:
    28 Mar 2026to31 Aug 2026Open 10:00 - 17:00
  10. Bison Ranger Experiences: A Morning at West Blean

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Sturry

    The Bison Ranger Experience at West Blean & Thornden Woods in Kent offers a unique behind-the-scenes wildlife encounter with the Wilder Blean bison project. Guided by expert rangers, visitors can learn about rewilding, track free-roaming European…

    Dates

    From:
    19 Aug 2026Open 10:00 - 14:00
    From:
    7 Sept 2026Open 10:00 - 14:00
    From:
    27 Sept 2026Open 10:00 - 14:00
    From:
    11 Oct 2026Open 10:00 - 14:00
    From:
    26 Oct 2026Open 10:00 - 14:00
  11. Hever in History

    Type

    Type:

    Heritage & History

    Edenbridge

    Step back in time at Hever Castle this August bank holiday weekend and experience history brought to life. Across the grounds you will find fascinating living history encampments, with re-enactments ranging from the Middle Ages through to the 20th…

    Dates

    From:
    29 Aug 2026to31 Aug 2026Open 10:30 - 18:00
  12. Military Odyssey

    Type

    Type:

    Show / Display

    Detling, Maidstone

    Packed full of living history displays bringing 2000 years of history into one place - The Military Odyssey is a three-day multi period living history event held on the August Bank Holiday weekend at the Kent Event Centre in Maidstone.  

    Dates

    From:
    29 Aug 2026to31 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 18:00
  13. Coastbuster 10 Mile & 10k

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Ramsgate

    Each year, the Coastbuster 10 Mile & 10k has attracted more runners - and for good reason. You'll enjoy glorious coastal views and feel the buzz of fantastic local support. Whether you're a beginner or experienced runner, both the 10 mile and 10k…

    Dates

    From:
    15 Nov 2026
  14. Weekend Wellness: Forest Bathing in Hothfield Heathlands

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Ashford

    Engage with the natural world in a mindful way at Hothfield Heathlands as you take a wellness walk with elements of forest bathing.

    Soothe your body and mind on a guided, meditative walk through the woods, inspired by the Japanese practice of…

    Dates

    From:
    14 Nov 2026Open 10:00 - 12:00
  15. Kent Christmas Cracker

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Sholden

    Come and enjoy the spirit of Christmas and superb racing combined in one very special event as you take on this fast and flat two lap, traffic-free course within Betteshanger Country Park. There will be plenty of festive cheer to help you on your…

    Dates

    From:
    20 Dec 2026Open 10:30 -
  16. Chateau Musar Wine Dinner at Hotel du Vin Tunbridge Wells

    Type

    Type:

    Food

    Tunbridge Wells

    Join us for an evening of exceptional wine and cuisine with renown wine producer Chateau Musar and Hotel du Vin Tunbridge Wells.
    Allow us to take you through a journey of delectable flavours, paired alongside the beautiful wines of Chateau Musar.…

    Dates

    From:
    17 Sept 2026Open 18:30 - 22:30
  17. Pups on SUPs

    Type

    Type:

    Water Based Activities

    Dengemarsh Road, Lydd

    Do you want to try paddleboarding with your dog? Looking for a fun, dog-friendly day out in Kent?

    Head along to Action Watersports in Lydd, Romney Marsh, for Pups on SUPs, a brilliant stand up paddleboarding experience where you and your…

    Venue

    Action Watersports, Kent

    Dates

    From:
    22 June 2026to31 Oct 2026Open 09:30 - 18:00
  18. Halloween Half Term Fun at Hever Castle

    Type

    Type:

    Heritage & History

    Edenbridge

    Treat your little ones to a spine-tingling visit to Hever Castle this Halloween Half Term as Spooktacular Science takes over the grounds from 17 October to 1 November 2026.

    Young visitors can embark on Hever's Mad Scientists Trail, wandering…

    Dates

    From:
    17 Oct 2026to1 Nov 2026Open 10:30 - 16:30
  19. Ashford Striders Charing 10k

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Ashford

    A Friday evening race event with a heart-warming community vibe that all the family can enjoy. This race takes advantage of the lighter summer evenings and provides a spellbinding route through the pretty Kent village of Charing.

    Venue

    Nice Work, East Sussex

    Dates

    From:
    11 June 2027Open 18:10 - 21:00
  20. Curious About Rochester

    Type

    Type:

    Walking

    High Street, Rochester

    Rediscover Rochester with two lively treasure‑hunt walks packed with clues, surprises and “I’ve never noticed that!” moments.
    Fun, affordable and perfect for all ages.

    Dates

    From:
    1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026Open 09:00 - 18:00