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.

Images from around the county of Kent

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) whilst in October, the White Cliffs Walking Festival welcomes visitors for guided walks along the Kent coast and along King Charles III England's Coast Path (3 - 10 October). Further down the coast in Folkestone, the newly refurbished Lower Leas Coastal Park playground 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.

Book a self catering cottage breakaway to Kent with Classic Cottages

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.

Images from around the Kent landscape  

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: 93

, currently showing 1 to 20.

  1. The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle

    Type

    Type:

    Festival

    Edenbridge

    The Festival Theatre events run throughout the year in our gorgeous locations at: Hever Castle – including our flagship stunning theatre re-built in 2024, Chiddingstone Castle and Penshurst Place & Gardens.

    Dates

    From:
    1 May 2026to31 Dec 2026Open 19:30 - 22:00
  2. Yuck Yard: Barnaby Bilge's Big Mess

    Type

    Type:

    Childrens Events

    Chatham

    Visitors can enjoy a frightfully fun, mess-filled Halloween activity at The Historic Dockyard Chatham this October Half Term.

    Venue

    The Historic Dockyard Chatham, Medway Towns

    Dates

    From:
    24 Oct 2026to8 Nov 2026Open 10:00 - 17:00
  3. 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
  4. Northiam Bonfire Procession and Fireworks

    Type

    Type:

    Bonfire Night

    Northiam

    An amazing night of torches, bonfire, fireworks, drums, food and more. This is an exciting event not to be missed!

    Dates

    From:
    3 Oct 2026Open 07:30 - 10:30
  5. Tour & BBQ at Wildshark Vineyard

    Type

    Type:

    Food

    Maidstone

    Experience a one to one and a half hour guided tour through the Wildshark Vineyard in Kent, followed by a seasonal BBQ cooked up by our chef in our Scandi-style watercress hut. During this guided walking tour of the vineyard where you’ll learn all…

    Dates

    From:
    24 Oct 2026
  6. Christmas Gift Market

    Type

    Type:

    Markets

    Woodchurch, Ashford

    There's something truly special about a Christmas gift market, the twinkling lights and the cheerful buzz of shoppers hunting for that perfect gift. But this year, why not swap the high street for something a little more enchanting? Head to the Rare…

    Dates

    From:
    14 Nov 2026Open 10:00 - 15:30
    From:
    15 Nov 2026Open 10:00 - 15:30
  7. Festivities, Fanfares and Fireworks

    Type

    Type:

    Music

    11 The Precincts, Canterbury

    Join Canterbury Choral Society and the London Mozart Players for an evening of celebratory masterpieces in the beauty of Canterbury Cathedral Nave.

    Handel Coronation Anthems:

    The King Shall Rejoice and Let Thy Hand Be Strengthened…

    Dates

    From:
    17 Oct 2026Open 19:30 - 21:30
  8. Paintalong Workshop: Umbrella in the Rain

    Type

    Type:

    Other

    Faversham

    Paintbrush in one hand, cuppa in the other, relax and enjoy. This step by step session guides you through creating a beautiful wall ready painting on canvas. Although there will be plenty of instruction, you are more than welcome to go off-piste.…

    Dates

    From:
    7 Oct 2026Open 11:00 - 13:00
  9. Christmas Lights at Leeds Castle

    Type

    Type:

    Christmas

    Maidstone

    Experience this historic estate transformed into a breath-taking winter wonderland as the Leeds Castle Christmas Lights trail returns from the 20th November - 3rd January 2027 to the Kent countryside.  Enjoy exhilarating Water Fountains, the…

    Venue

    Leeds Castle, Maidstone

    Dates

    From:
    20 Nov 2026to3 Jan 2027Open 16:30 - 20:00
  10. Adults Only Sundown Adventures at Go Ape Bedgebury

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Cranbrook

    Forget the usual night out. Gather your mates and take on an unforgettable after-dark adventure through the forest at Go Ape Bedgebury. Climb through the canopy on a high ropes course illuminated by glowing lights and spectacularly lit trees,…

    Venue

    Go Ape Bedgebury, Kent

    Dates

    From:
    16 Oct 2026Open 18:00 - 20:00
    From:
    23 Oct 2026Open 18:00 - 20:00
  11. 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
  12. Halloween Potion Hunt at Go Ape Leeds Castle

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Maidstone

    Take on the Halloween Potion Hunt, a ‘spell-tacular’ addition to Go Ape Leeds Castle’s Treetop Adventures. Combining high ropes crossings, zip wires and a seasonal trail, this special event adds an extra twist to the Go Ape family experience.

    Venue

    Go Ape Leeds Castle, Maidstone

    Dates

    From:
    24 Oct 2026to1 Nov 2026Open 10:00 - 15:00
  13. A Truly Magical Christmas

    Type

    Type:

    Childrens Events

    Ashford

    Step into the magic of Christmas at the Rare Breeds Centre and make memories to treasure all season long!

    Meet Father Christmas and his cheerful team of elves
    Our festive celebrations on the farm, begin on Saturday 28th November and run every…

    Dates

    From:
    28 Nov 2026to23 Dec 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  14. Wassailing

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Faversham

    This ancient tradition is held to bless the orchards, ward off bad spirits, and encourage a bountiful apple and fruit harvest for the coming year. A wonderful and unique family experience.

    Our event will feature traditional Morris dancers, a…

    Venue

    Brogdale Collections, Swale

    Dates

    From:
    16 Jan 2027Open 16:00 - 18:30
  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. Kids' Apple Juicing Workshops

    Type

    Type:

    Childrens Events

    Faversham

    Come along to Brogdale during our apple harvesting season and walk through our heritage orchards. Pick some apples from our special heritage orchards and have a go at making freshly pressed juice!

    Venue

    Brogdale Collections, Swale

    Dates

    From:
    27 Oct 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
    From:
    29 Oct 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
    From:
    30 Oct 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  17. 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
  18. Beauty Unfiltered: Live

    Type

    Type:

    Shopping

    Kent

    One weekend. All the beauty know-how at the John Lewis Bluewater store.

    Dates

    From:
    16 Oct 2026to17 Oct 2026
  19. Guided Wine Tasting - Silverhand Estate

    Type

    Type:

    Vineyard / Wine

    Gravesend

    Discover English wine at Silverhand Estate in Kent with a guided tasting experience featuring a selection of still and sparkling wines. Set within a historic vineyard, this experience combines expert guidance, award-winning wines and insights into…

    Venue

    Silverhand Estate, Kent

    Dates

    From:
    1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026Open 13:00 - 17:45
  20. Call The Midwife Official Location Tour

    Type

    Type:

    Tour

    Chatham

    f you're a fan of the hit series and you've been wondering where Call the Midwife is filmed, put yourself in the picture and explore where the real drama happens with a Call the Midwife Official Location Tour at The Historic Dockyard Chatham…

    Venue

    The Historic Dockyard Chatham, Medway Towns

    Dates

    From:
    1 Mar 2026to31 Oct 2026