Discover what's on in Kent including the annual White Cliffs Country Walking week.

White Cliffs Country Walking Week

3 - 10 October 26

What's On in Kent

Share this with

x

  • Accommodation Search

  • Things to Do Search

  • What's On Search

  • Food & Drink Search

Accommodation Search

Arrival Date:
Add Room
Type:
Area:
Keyword:

Things to Do Search

Type:
Area:
Keyword:

What's On Search

Type:
Area:
Keyword:
Dates

Food & Drink Search

Type:
Area:
Keyword:

Accommodation Search

Arrival Date:
Add Room
Type:
Area:
Keyword:

Things to Do Search

Type:
Area:
Keyword:

What's On Search

Type:
Area:
Keyword:
Dates

Food & Drink Search

Type:
Area:
Keyword:

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: 91

, currently showing 1 to 20.

  1. Heritage Open Days in Maidstone

    Type

    Type:

    Heritage & History

    The National Heritage Open Days happen all across South East England including in Maidstone, Kent

    Dates

    From:
    11 Sept 2026to20 Sept 2026
  2. Family Activity:Story time

    Type

    Type:

    Childrens Events

    Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, Sevenoaks

    Enjoy a change of scenery as we entertain your toddlers with a seasonal story or two at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve.

    Bring your toddlers to Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve on the first Wednesday of each month for a relaxed story telling session with Kent…

    Dates

    From:
    7 Oct 2026Open 10:30 - 11:00
    From:
    4 Nov 2026Open 10:30 - 11:00
    From:
    2 Dec 2026Open 10:30 - 11:00
  3. Pick-Your-Own Fruit Weekends

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Faversham

    Pick your own fruit in Kent at our PYO Fruit Weekends! Enjoy a fun day out picking unusual varieties of cherries, plums, gages, apples and pears straight from the Brogdale Collections orchards. We have 100s of different varieties that are not…

    Venue

    Brogdale Collections, Swale

    Dates

    From:
    13 June 2026to1 Nov 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  4. 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
  5. The Making of Marlowe: Poet, Playwright, Provocateur

    Type

    Type:

    Exhibitions

    Canterbury

    Visit the exhibition to discover artefacts, historical documents and interactive displays that bring to the life the story of Canterbury's notorious poet, playwright, and provocateur!

    Dates

    From:
    25 July 2026to22 Nov 2026Open 11:00 - 17:00
  6. Deal Christmas Lights Switch On

    Type

    Type:

    Christmas

    Deal

    Start your Kent Christmas celebrations with a visit to the family-friendly Deal Annual Christmas Lights Switch On. 

    Head along to Deal town centre on Saturday 21st November, from 5.30pm including music, performances, a visit from Father Christmas,…

    Dates

    From:
    21 Nov 2026Open 17:30 - 19:00
  7. Fireworks and Rallycross at Lydden Hill

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Event

    Canterbury

    With over 75 races across the weekend, enjoy wheel-to-wheel rallycross under floodlights, alongside funfair rides, live music, street food, performers and a spectacular fireworks display on Saturday night.

    Dates

    From:
    7 Nov 2026to8 Nov 2026
  8. Oliver Fisher 10k, 5k & Family Run

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Sittingbourne

    The Oliver Fisher 10k & 5k returns to our racing calendars on Sunday 09 May 2027 to help raise valuable funds for this wonderful charity. The race continues to boast a delightful off-road route with wonderful views and starting at Milton Creek…

    Venue

    Nice Work, East Sussex

    Dates

    From:
    9 May 2027Open 09:00 -
  9. Dover Light Up Procession

    Type

    Type:

    Christmas

    Dover

    Head along to Pencester Gardens in Dover for the annual Winter Light Up Dover event on Saturday, 5th December. This festival brings light to the winter months and offers an enchanting range of activities for visitors and residents to enjoy. 

    Dates

    From:
    5 Dec 2026Open 10:00 - 19:30
  10. Go Ape Bedgebury Sundown Adventures

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Cranbrook

    Go Ape Sundown Adventures are back for autumn 2026 at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest in Kent!

    Venue

    Go Ape Bedgebury, Kent

    Dates

    From:
    16 Oct 2026to8 Nov 2026
  11. 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
  12. Curious About Canterbury

    Type

    Type:

    Walking

    Sun Street, Canterbury

    Curious About Canterbury takes you to the famous sights and the hidden gems, with surprises tucked around every corner. Each walk takes 1–2 hours, and both are wheelchair and buggy friendly.

    Dates

    From:
    1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2027Open 09:00 - 16:00
  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. 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,…

    Venue

    Brogdale Collections, Swale

    Dates

    From:
    3 Oct 2026to4 Oct 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  15. Pilgrimage of Love: Eleanor of Castile Exhibition

    Type

    Type:

    Exhibitions

    Maidstone

    An Audience With Eleanor: Unveiling the World's First AI Queen Experience

    Immerse yourself in the life of medieval England's most remarkable and misunderstood queen through a groundbreaking exhibition featuring the world's first interactive…

    Venue

    Leeds Castle, Maidstone

    Dates

    From:
    9 Mar 2026to1 Nov 2026
  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. Wellness Walks with Heather Lawson

    Type

    Type:

    Walking

    Meopham

    Take a moment to enjoy the beauty of nature with a structured walk designed to support physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection. Heather provides a safe welcoming environment for adults, walks will be gentle with time for reflection…

    Dates

    From:
    12 Sept 2026Open 10:00 - 12:00
  18. Market Square Live

    Type

    Type:

    Free Event

    Dover

    Head along to the Market Square this summer holidays for free entertainment in the heart of Dover town.
    Taking place on selected dates, this is a great way to enjoy the summer vibes.

    Dates

    From:
    14 Aug 2026to26 Sept 2026
  19. Belmont Woodfest & Country Fair

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Faversham

    With exciting woodland demonstrations taking place over the weekend at Belmont House and Gardens, including wood turning, horse logging, spoon carving, willow weaving, campfire cooking, pole lathe turning, as well as vintage tractors and a fantastic…

    Dates

    From:
    12 Sept 2026to13 Sept 2026Open 10:00 - 17:00
  20. 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