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
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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
Bradbourne Vale Road, Sevenoaks
Come and construct your own little reindeer to take home for Christmas at the Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve.
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
Greenhithe
Calling all parents-to-be.
Join our Nursery team and local experts to learn about this new stage of your life and our All Things Baby service, covering everything you need to know for the arrival of your child.
Plus, we'll have guests, offering…
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…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Cranbrook
Go Ape Sundown Adventures are back for autumn 2026 at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest in Kent!
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.
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.
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.
Outdoor Event / Activities
Maidstone
Go Ape Sundown Adventures are back for autumn 2026 at Go Ape Leeds Castle. A perfect autumn night out near Maidstone for families and friends. These limited evening sessions run from 16th October and throughout half term.
Christmas
Folkestone
Returning for its sixth year, Folkestone Harbour Arm Christmas Market brings festive cheer to the Kent coast.
Special Events
Greenhithe
Join the Nursery team at John Lewis Bluewater and local experts to learn about this new stage of your life and our All Things Baby service, covering everything you need to know for your parenting journey. Plus, we'll have guests, offering demos,…
Christmas
Goudhurst
Christmas at Bedgebury returns from 20 November to 31 December 2026, transforming Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest into a magical illuminated trail. Discover glowing woodland displays, spectacular light installations, festive food and seasonal…
Heritage & History
Dover
The Grand Shaft is a unique triple helix staircase built during Napoleonic times and open on selected dates for free visits
Christmas
Maidstone
The annual Christmas Craft Market returns to Maidstone Museum this December.
Special Events
Greenhithe
Join us at John Lewis Bluewater for an exclusive Bobbi Brown Masterclass with senior PRO Artist, Zara Findlay and discover expert tips and techniques to achieve the ultimate glow, with a focus on learning the tips and tricks to feel put together in…
Childrens Events
Chatham
Visitors can enjoy a frightfully fun, mess-filled Halloween activity at The Historic Dockyard Chatham this October Half Term.
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.
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…
Christmas
Gravesend
Discover a variety of stalls offering handmade gifts, jewellery, crafts, books, homeware and seasonal treats at Gravesend Christmas Market. With independent traders from Gravesham and across Kent, it's an opportunity to find thoughtful presents,…
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