Discover the Best Festivals in Kent

The Ultimate Guide to Kent’s Most Exciting Events

From cultural celebrations to music festivals, Kent has a fantastic lineup of events to suit all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’ll find something to enjoy in Kent’s vibrant festival scene. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top festivals in Kent that you simply can’t afford to miss.

🎉 Canterbury Festival

Canterbury Festival is one of the most renowned arts and culture events in Kent. This two-week-long festival takes place in October and includes an array of performances, exhibitions, and talks. From classical music concerts to contemporary dance performances, there’s plenty to see and enjoy at Canterbury Festival.

🍻 Faversham Hop Festival

If you’re a fan of beer and local produce, you won’t want to miss the Faversham Hop Festival. This annual festival celebrates the town’s rich brewing heritage and features a range of local ales, as well as live music and street entertainment. The festival takes place in September and is a must-visit for any beer lover.

🎸 Ramblin’ Man Fair

Ramblin’ Man Fair is a rock music festival that takes place in Maidstone. This three-day event features some of the biggest names in rock, blues, and country music, as well as a range of food and drink stalls and activities for all ages. Whether you’re a die-hard music fan or just looking for a fun day out, Ramblin’ Man Fair is sure to impress.

🌿 Kent Vegan Festival

For those who follow a plant-based lifestyle, Kent Vegan Festival is a must-visit. This annual event takes place in Canterbury and features an array of vegan food stalls, talks, and workshops. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about the lifestyle, the Kent Vegan Festival is a great opportunity to learn more and connect with like-minded individuals.

🎭 Folkestone Book Festival

The Folkestone Book Festival is a celebration of literature and storytelling that takes place in November. This week-long festival features talks, readings, and workshops from a range of renowned authors and poets. Whether you’re a bookworm or just looking for a cultural experience, the Folkestone Book Festival is not to be missed.

🎭 Whitstable Oyster Festival

The Whitstable Oyster Festival is a celebration of the town’s rich maritime heritage and world-famous oysters. This annual festival features a range of entertainment, including live music, food stalls, and traditional oyster eating contests. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a fun day out, the Whitstable Oyster Festival is sure to impress.

🏰 Leeds Castle Classical Concert

The Leeds Castle Classical Concert is a highlight of Kent’s summer calendar. This open-air concert takes place in the stunning grounds of Leeds Castle and features a range of classical music performances, as well as a fireworks display. Whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a romantic evening out, the Leeds Castle Classical Concert is a must-visit.

🎭 Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival

The Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival is a celebration of the art of puppetry that takes place in July. This two-day festival features a range of puppet shows and workshops, as well as street performances and entertainment for all ages. Whether you’re a fan of the Muppets or just looking for a unique cultural experience, the Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival is a must-visit.

🎨 Margate Festival

The Margate Festival is a celebration of the town’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. This annual festival features an array of exhibitions, performances, and workshops, as well as street art and installations. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a fun day out, the Margate Festival has something for everyone.

🍁 Canterbury Beer Festival

The Canterbury Beer Festival is a celebration of Kent’s finest ales and ciders. This annual event takes place in July and features a range of local beers, as well as food stalls and live music. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out, the Canterbury Beer Festival is a great way to sample some of the best drinks Kent has to offer.

🎵 Broadstairs Folk Week

Broadstairs Folk Week is a celebration of traditional music and dance that takes place in August. This week-long festival features a range of performances, workshops, and ceilidhs, as well as a parade through the town’s picturesque streets. Whether you’re a folk music fan or just looking for a fun family-friendly event, Broadstairs Folk Week is not to be missed.

🎭 The Canterbury Tales Festival

The Canterbury Tales Festival is a unique event that brings Chaucer’s famous tales to life. This annual festival takes place in July and features a range of performances, workshops, and talks based on the medieval classic. Whether you’re a literature lover or just looking for a fun and educational day out, the Canterbury Tales Festival is a must-visit.

🎸 A New Day Festival

A New Day Festival is a rock and blues music festival that takes place in Faversham. This three-day event features a range of well-known acts, as well as a variety of food and drink stalls and activities for all ages. Whether you’re a music fan or just looking for a fun day out, A New Day Festival is sure to impress.

🍻 Ashford Beer Festival

The Ashford Beer Festival is a celebration of local beers and ciders that takes place in June. This annual event features a range of local ales, as well as live music and street food stalls. Whether you’re a beer lover or just looking for a fun day out, the Ashford Beer Festival is a great way to sample some of Kent’s finest drinks.

🎨 Rochester Dickens Festival

The Rochester Dickens Festival is a celebration of the life and works of Charles Dickens. This annual event takes place in June and features a range of performances, workshops, and talks based on the famous author’s work. Whether you’re a literature lover or just looking for a fun day out, the Rochester Dickens Festival is not to be missed.

Complete Information about Best Festivals in Kent

Kent is a county in southeastern England, known for its stunning coastline, historic castles, and picturesque towns and villages. The county is also home to a vibrant festival scene, with events taking place throughout the year.

From music festivals to cultural celebrations, Kent’s festivals offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in Kent’s exciting festival lineup.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the best time to visit Kent for festivals?

The festival scene in Kent is active throughout the year, but the summer months tend to be the busiest. July and August are particularly popular, with events such as the Canterbury Beer Festival and Broadstairs Folk Week taking place during this time.

2. How do I get to Kent for festivals?

Kent is easily accessible by car, train, and bus. The county is well-connected to London and other major cities in the UK, making it easy to reach by public transport.

3. Is there camping available at Kent’s festivals?

Many festivals in Kent offer camping facilities for visitors. However, it’s always a good idea to check the festival’s website for details and to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

4. Are Kent’s festivals family-friendly?

Many of Kent’s festivals are family-friendly, with activities and entertainment for all ages. However, it’s always a good idea to check the festival’s website for details on age restrictions and suitability.

5. Are there any free festivals in Kent?

Yes, there are several free festivals in Kent, including the Margate Festival and the Canterbury Tales Festival. However, some events may require an admission fee or ticket purchase.

6. Can I bring my dog to Kent’s festivals?

Some festivals in Kent may allow dogs, but it’s always best to check the festival’s website for details and restrictions before bringing your pet.

7. What should I wear to Kent’s festivals?

It’s always a good idea to check the festival’s website for dress code and weather conditions before attending. As many festivals take place outdoors, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers to prepare for changing temperatures.

8. Are there any food and drink restrictions at Kent’s festivals?

Many festivals in Kent offer a range of food and drink options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. However, it’s always best to check the festival’s website for specific details and restrictions before attending.

9. Can I bring my own food and drink to Kent’s festivals?

Many festivals in Kent have their own food and drink stalls, but some may allow