Discover one of Kent's best kept secrets
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: 82
, currently showing 1 to 20.
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.
Water Based Activities
Lydd
Three hours of dedicated Jet Ski time with exclusive use of the lake for Jet Skis at Action Watersports in Kent.
Shopping
Tonbridge
Join us for a magical evening at the Balfour Winery Christmas Shopping Night on Thursday 26th November, from 6pm to 9pm.
Christmas
Maidstone
Wallace & Gromit are coming to Leeds Castle this Christmas, and where this lovable duo go, adventure is never far behind.
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…
New Year
Tenterden
Come and join the team from Kent & East Sussex Railway for a cracking day out this Festive Season and don't miss the chance to join us on New Years Day to welcome in 2027.
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.
Sporting Events
Lydd
This long-established and highly coveted running event takes place on a pancake flat course, using the wide, quiet country lanes surrounding the marsh town of Lydd in Kent.
Childrens Events
Bradbourne Vale Road, Sevenoaks
Feeling artistic? Decorate a wooden, winter wildlife-inspired tealight holder for Christmas at the Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve.
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.
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…
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
Faversham
Described by RunABC as an 'absolute gem', this beautiful 10k course takes runners along the quiet country lanes around the stunning estate at Mount Ephraim Gardens.
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…
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.
Sporting Events
Hawkhurst
The Hawkhurst event offers a 10k, 5k and a free junior race around the Moor, making it perfect for the whole family.
Carnival
Sandwich
This Christmas head to Sandwich in Kent for the start of the festive season, with the town centre light parade and Christmas light switch on
Christmas
Maidstone
Kick off your Christmas with a visit to the popular Maidstone Christmas Light Switch-on. This event will be taking place at Jubilee Square from 5pm - 7pm on the 19th November.
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…
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…
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