Dover, 5th December 26
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.
Have you visited the newly refurbished Lower Leas Coastal Park playground yet? It has recently opened and is now 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. If you love firework displays the Folkestone's Alcaline Football Stadium will be lighting up the sky with its annual display (1 November). Along the coast in Dover you'll find Woodland Trail and Pumpkin Patch (24 October - 1 November) and Ghostly tales at Samphire Hoe (28 October) (F) to keep everyone entertained. Christmas celebrations kick off in Deal (21 November) (F), Sandwich (28 November) (F), and Dover (5 December) (F).
This October half term Monsters are taking over Maidstone with six giant inflatable installations and 16 creative characters to find as part of a free family-friendly trail (25 - 31 October) (F), or you can head up into the trees after dark with the Go Ape Sundown Adventures at Leeds Castle (16 October - 8 November). While in Ashford, its Farmyard Frights and Trick or Treat Delights (24 October - 1 November) or in Tonbridge Christmas Shopping Night at Balfour Winery (26 November).
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Scroll down to discover upcoming events across Kent, or use the search filters to find something near you. Explore our snapshot of events this autumn and winter, from free family-friendly outdoor trails to firework displays, creative workshops and seasonal events. Kent offers events and experiences throughout the year in its castles and vineyards, along its coastline and within its family attractions, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes. Known as the Gateway to England, Kent is easily accessible from London by both road and rail. High-speed trains from London St Pancras International connect with Ashford, Canterbury and the Kent coast, while services from London Victoria, Charing Cross, London Bridge and Cannon Street make it easy to visit destinations such as Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells, Dover and Folkestone. Whether you're planning a day by the sea, a countryside escape or a visit to one of Kent's many events, much of the county can be reached in around an hour from central London.
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.
Number of results: 79
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Arts
10 Military Road, Rye
Join The Paint Club for a relaxed and creative evening of painting in Rye at The Globe Inn!
Outdoor Event / Activities
Faversham
Enjoy a half-day Floristry course at Brogdale Collections Charity. Forage fresh foliage from all over Brogdale Farm, in the course you'll learn everything you need to know to make and take home your very own seasonal wreath – perfect to hang on your…
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.
Christmas
Greenhithe
The Bluewater Ice Rink returns from 5 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, offering festive skating in a covered all-weather rink. Located at Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent, it's the perfect way to combine Christmas shopping, seasonal dining and…
Christmas
Dover
Enjoy a festive day out in Dover and get together with friends and family and celebrate the start of the Christmas season at this years Maison Dieu Christmas market.
Christmas
Gravesend
This spectacular day of FREE live music, street entertainment and holiday cheer is the perfect way to welcome the countdown to Christmas in Gravesend. Kickstart your Christmas shopping and grab a festive treat from a local café. Hop on-board the…
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.
Special Events
Greenhithe, Dartford
Come and join us for various Christmas events at John Lewis Bluewater. From Christmas tree decorating to festive wreath-making workshops, setting the perfect Christmas table demonstrations to sip and paint sessions with friends.
Christmas
Station Road, Tenterden
We love Christmas at the Kent and East Sussex Railway and we have been welcoming families to meet Santa on our trains since 1974!
There's nothing quite like the pleasure of a steam train ride knowing your child will meet Santa and receive a named…
Sporting Events
Tunbridge Wells
Voted the No.2 Half Marathon in the UK by Runners World readers in 2011 the Hendy Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon event combines beautiful scenery with a challenging route.
Childrens Events
Bradbourne Vale Road, Sevenoaks
Help look after our feathered friends this Christmas by making a Christmas wreath covered with lots of treats that will help birds through the cold winter period.
Sporting Events
Goudhurst
Experience racing perfection beneath the majestic pines at Bedgebury! If the weather has been inclement in the days leading up to race day, you can expect mud! mud! mud! - all adding to the joy of racing this iconic trail. You can expect a start…
Fireworks
Broadstairs
Head down to Viking Bay in Broadstairs to enjoy a fabulous firework display to see the sky above Broadstairs' Viking Bay come alive with colour on Thursday 5th of November
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…
Heritage & History
Dover
The Grand Shaft is a unique triple helix staircase built during Napoleonic times and open on selected dates for free visits
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.
Special Events
Gravesend
The free light festival returns for January 2027. Galactic Glow will transform the winter streets of Gravesend into a radiant universe of cosmic colour, light and creativity.
Fireworks
Sandling, Maidstone
Be amazed at our annual spectacular musical firework display at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park, marking the end of our season and the beginning of our winter festivities.
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…
Sporting Events
Chislehurst
2027 marks the 10th anniversary of this remarkable race, which explores and celebrates the green spaces of London and helps raise valuable funds for The Maypole Project.
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