Dover Harbour Festival and Regatta this July

Dover Harbour Festival and Regatta

4 - 5 July 2026

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.

Kents 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 summer 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 Children's Festival will be taking over Walmer Green on 4 July with kite making and music workshops, kite flying and craft activities - all for free. Whilst along the coast in Dover, a new Dover Harbour Festival will fill the harbour, marina and waterfront with a mix of traditional regatta events and onshore family-friendly activities, plus award-winning food and drink. Taking place on the 4 - 5 July, it's the perfect time for a short break in Kent. Further down the coast in Folkestone, discover the UK's largest urban contemporary art exhibition, free and accessible, this outdoor collection features works by 46 leading artists, including Tracey Emin, Antony Gormley and Yoko Ono, placed in scenic and surprising locations across the town.

What’s on in the Kent countryside and towns

In Maidstone, the free River Festival celebrates the River Medway and all the businesses and activities that this supports.Taking place on the 25 July, the event includes the much-loved Raft Race along 650m of the river from High Level Bridge to Archbishops Palace, music from local bands, dance and a fireworks spectacular. Visiting at another time, you can still enjoy the River Medway with a boat trip on the Kentish Lady or head a little further out of town to Hollingbourne and enjoy a tour and tasting or Pizza Saturdays at Wildshark Vineyard, just a 15 minute drive away. Don't forget to pay a visit to Leeds Castle with its year-round event calendar there is plenty to see and do.

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, from coastal festivals and food experiences to family attractions and countryside events. 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 European travellers arriving in the UK by sea, 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, find answers below to 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.

What are the best things to do in Kent this weekend?

This weekend in Kent you can enjoy a wide range of things to do, including festivals, wine tasting, family-friendly events, garden tours or coastal experiences.  Browse the listings on this page or use the filters above to find something happening 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: 134

, currently showing 1 to 20.

  1. Beastie Day

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Faversham

    Meet giant insects – Bug hunt – Outdoor craft – Bring a picnic – Enjoy a day at Brogdale Farm.

    Come and join us for a day of mini-beastie fun! A day of exploring Brogdale and discovering fantastic bugs & mini beasts.

    Dates

    From:
    20 Aug 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  2. Willow Weaving Workshop

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Faversham

    Our one day willow weaving courses introduce you to the traditional craft of working with willow & basket weaving. Get hands on practice and learn the skills you need to work with willow and make baskets. Perfect for those new to traditional willow…

    Dates

    From:
    12 July 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
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    9 Aug 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
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    13 Sept 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
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    27 Sept 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
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    18 Oct 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
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    15 Nov 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
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    6 Dec 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  3. Maidstone Improv Festival

    Type

    Type:

    Comedy

    Market Buildings, Maidstone

    Four days of live, unscripted comedy descend on Maidstone. Workshops, shows, late-night jams — all of it made up on the spot, none of it to be missed.
    The festival brings together local groups, visiting professional companies, and world-class…

    Dates

    From:
    17 Sept 2026Open 20:00 - 22:00
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    18 Sept 2026Open 20:00 - 22:00
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    19 Sept 2026Open 10:00 - 12:00
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    19 Sept 2026Open 13:00 - 17:00
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    19 Sept 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00
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    20 Sept 2026Open 11:00 - 12:00
  4. 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
  5. Howletts Cheetah 5k

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    Bekesbourne, Littlebourne, Canterbury

    Take part in a truly unique 5K at Howletts Wild Animal Park and support The Aspinall Foundation in their vital conservation work. This year's race edition will be celebrating and supporting the rewilding of Edie, the South African cheetah. Race…

    Dates

    From:
    20 Sept 2026
  6. Sandwich Folk and Ale Festival

    Type

    Type:

    Festivals

    Sandwhich

    Established in 2010, Sandwich Folk and Ale Festival is a multi-arts festival that highlights traditional and contemporary folk-life and folk arts, in a beautiful medieval town of Sandwich in Kent.

    Dates

    From:
    3 July 2026to5 July 2026
  7. 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
  8. Lavender Owl Workshop

    Type

    Type:

    Other

    Faversham

    Join our Lavender Owl Making Workshop and create a charming, handcrafted owl that's more than just a decoration.

    Made with authentic Harris Tweed and filled with a fragrant lavender insert, your finished piece will naturally freshen drawers and…

    Dates

    From:
    3 July 2026Open 10:30 - 12:30
  9. Open Garden

    Type

    Type:

    Gardens

    Sandling, Maidstone

    Join us for our annual open garden at the headquarters of Kent Wildlife Trust!

    Join us for our Open Garden at our head office, Tyland Barn Nature Park & Gardens. A fantastic and easy way to experience the wonders of our Kentish countryside. The…

    Dates

    From:
    8 Aug 2026Open 11:00 - 15:00
  10. Wealden Times Midwinter Fair

    Type

    Type:

    Shopping

    Tonbridge

    Wealden Times Midwinter Fair
 The Hop Farm - Thursday 19th to Saturday 21st November
 - Get ahead of Christmas with three magical days of festive shopping, abundant gifts, seasonal treats and handcrafted treasures in heated marquees.

    Dates

    From:
    19 Nov 2026to21 Nov 2026Open 09:00 - 16:30
  11. Cobham Village Tour

    Type

    Type:

    Guided Walk

    Cobham

    Discover the historic village of Cobham in Kent with a guided walk. Charles Dickens was a regular visitor to Cobham, it is home to the stunning Cobham Hall once the home of Lord Darnley.

    Dates

    From:
    18 July 2026Open 11:00 - 12:00
  12. Go Wild with Wilder Holiday Club this summer!

    Type

    Type:

    Childrens Events

    Chatham Road, Maidstone

    Kent Wildlife Trust are the leading conservation charity in Kent and the experts when it comes to wildlife and outdoor learning. Join us this summer for our bespoke Holiday Club designed specifically for the next generation of nature lovers!

    About…

    Dates

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    27 July 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
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    3 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
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    4 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
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    10 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
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    11 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
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    17 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
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    18 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
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    24 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
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    25 Aug 2026Open 09:00 - 16:00
  13. Romney Marsh 10k

    Type

    Type:

    Sporting Events

    New Romney

    The Romney Marsh 10K is organised by Nice Work on behalf of the Romney Marsh Rotary Club. The course uses the flat tarmac country lanes around the pretty Kent town of New Romney. You won't be disappointed by the views as you explore this stunning…

    Dates

    From:
    12 July 2026
  14. Much A Do About Nothing

    Type

    Type:

    Performance

    Faversham

    Shakespeare’s famous romcom gets a gothic makeover at Belmont House and Gardens in Kent this summer.

    Glitz, glamour and scandal hit Messina in Changeling’s revival of Much Ado About Nothing. 

    Dates

    From:
    10 July 2026Open 18:30 - 21:00
  15. 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
  16. 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
  17. Margate Country Music Festival

    Type

    Type:

    Music

    Margate

    The Margate Country Music Festival returns to The Oval, a day filled with live music, dancing, competitions, games and DJ’s.

    Dates

    From:
    11 July 2026
  18. Kids' Apple Juicing Workshops

    Type

    Type:

    Childrens Events

    Faversham

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

    Dates

    From:
    11 Aug 2026to12 Aug 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00
  19. Hever in Bloom

    Type

    Type:

    Vineyard / Wine

    Edenbridge

    Hever in Bloom showcases the glorious award winning gardens at the height of their summer beauty. You will be able to enjoy one of the finest displays of more than 5,000 roses in Kent, the Garden of England.

    Dates

    From:
    22 June 2026to5 July 2026Open 10:30 - 18:00
  20. Maid of Stone Festival

    Type

    Type:

    Festival

    Maidstone

    Maid of Stone festival is a 3-day rock music event held in Maidstone, Kent

    Dates

    From:
    17 July 2026to19 July 2026