22nd - 25th May 26, The Little Ships Come Home
Kent’s coast, countryside and characterful towns are set to shine in 2026, with fresh experiences, landmark anniversaries and vibrant cultural highlights unfolding across the Garden of England. From big moments in art and history to family‑friendly adventures, the year promises memorable days out in every corner of the county.
In Margate, Turner Contemporary marks its 15th anniversary, hosting a major new David Hockney installation that transforms the Sunley Window from 1st April – 1st November 2026. Along the coast in Folkestone, visitors can 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. It even answers the question many visitors ask — why is there a little house in the middle of the harbour? The family-friendly coastal seaside resorts such as Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate have events calendars geared for keeping kids entertained whether it's during the holidays or for a weekend break. Historic Dover, medieval Sandwich and traditional Deal provide destinations ideal for a seaside getaway, a walking holiday or a cultural break by the sea.
At Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, families can step into a storybook world with the brand‑new Room on the Broom adventure trail, complete with themed challenges, forest facts and a £4 activity pack to help young explorers follow Witch’s quest. Spring brings colour in abundance as Leeds Castle bursts into bloom, with a new self-guided daffodil walk from mid‑March to late April. In Sandwich, the 2nd May marks the 800‑year anniversary of the town’s mayors, celebrated with a historic procession, school‑created artworks, reenactments and exhibitions across this remarkable medieval Cinque Port. Whilst Maidstone, the event's capital of Kent, makes for an ideal base for festival goers, adventure weekenders or for exploring this beautiful county.
Kent is the perfect place for a short break or longer escape - start planning your 2026 adventure today, your Kent experience is waiting.
To find out what's on in Kent today or this weekend, use the search box above to narrow down your required date. 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.
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Take a look at our snapshot of events in Kent below, or head on down to the bottom of the page to see more...
If you're travelling from outside the area for an event in Kent, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs.
>>> Search & Book Kent Accommodation
The guide below shows our calendar of events in Kent. Whether you're local or visiting the area, find what's happening near you by clicking the Map View button or by scrolling through the events listing.
Number of results: 63
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Food
Broadstairs
Enjoy a vibrant 3 day celebration of local food and drink with passionate foodies, artisan producers, and top chefs. Set on the clifftop above Broadstairs Viking Bay
Heritage & History
Ramsgate
Your chance to climb aboard and into the cockpit of one of the museums planes and helicopter to experience what it would have been like piloting them
If that is not enough, find out what it is like to ride in a Fire Engine or Tank
Sporting Events
Folkestone
This accurately-measured course starts outside The Grand on The Leas, passes through the coastal park before and an out and back to Hythe. The event has fantastic support from local community groups and has a friendly race day vibe. If you are new…
Childrens Events
Ashford
Make this Mother's Day truly special with a memorable visit to the Rare Breeds Centre. On Sunday, 15th March 2026, we're delighted to offer one complimentary parent or carer day ticket for every group booking with at least one paid adult or child…
Indoor
Tonbridge
Balfour Winery knowledgeable tour guides will lead you in a fun and relaxed tasting of six, where you can learn the technique of wine tasting without the bravado.
Childrens Events
Chatham
This February half term, families are invited to The Historic Dockyard Chatham for Dockyard Deckhands, a hands-on adventure where children can step into the shoes of a real Dockyard worker.
Young visitors can become apprentice deckhands for the…
Sporting Events
Chislehurst
The parks and commons of Chislehurst have a rich history and the village is located in one of the leafiest wards of Greater London. Our aim is to combine the two to showcase that history and proffer fresh breath from the green lungs of Chislehurst…
Sporting Events
Goudhurst
Enjoy the epic scenery, the race day buzz and delight in every twist and turn of this traffic free trail. Perfect for novices and experienced athletes alike, the course meanders through the narrow trails of this beautiful woodland. If the weather…
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…
Other
Faversham
Join Ellen Barton, Textile Artist, in a relaxed and enjoyable textile art workshop at the wonderful setting of Belmont House. A chance for you to put aside the stress of daily life, develop new skills and immerse yourself in the creative process…
Sporting Events
Kennington, Ashford
This exciting new race invites runners to take to the tarmac around the charming country lanes surrounding the village of Westwell. Offering a flawless fusion of rolling hills, open countryside and fast tarmac stretches, this February fixture is…
Childrens Events
Edenbridge
Bugs, Boots and Backpacks at Hever Castle
14–22 February 2026 | Included with admission
Get hands-on with nature this February half-term! Children can build Bug Hotels, make clay bugs, and join the muddy Boot Parade at Hever Castle.
Explore the…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Faversham
Join us for guided blossom tours for the most stunning spring scenes at Brogdale Farm.
The National Fruit Collection holds over 400 cherry varieties alone. Along with the cherry trees there will be plenty of other blossoming fruit trees to see…
Gardens
Faversham
Join local herbalist Mandy Rickard for a relaxing walk, where you'll discover various herbs historically used to treat illness and promote health.
This is a wonderful opportunity to see, smell, and taste these plants in a beautiful garden setting,…
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
Ashford
A Friday evening race event with a heartwarming 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, exploring country…
Other
Faversham
Take inspiration from the award-winning gardens at Belmont and join us for a day of screen printing outdoors, surrounded by the beauty of the gardens.
Your day begins with a garden tour led by our Head Gardener. As you explore the colours and…
Other
Faversham
Join us for a relaxed and inspiring workshop to design a lampshade to match your upholstery, curtains, wallpaper or any room theme.
Using a professional kit, you will make a 30cm Drum Lampshade from the covering of your choice, which can be used as…
Mother's Day
Ashford
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Rare Breeds Centre
Childrens Events
Edenbridge
Enjoy a magical Easter at Hever Castle with The Great Dragon Egg Hunt, a family friendly adventure set within the historic Castle grounds. Children and their families are invited to take part in a daring quest to find dragon eggs hidden across the…
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