August Bank Holiday Events in Kent

While the August Bank Holiday might signal the end of summer, there are still lots of things to do, see and enjoy throughout Kent. We’ve rounded up some of the best August bank holiday events in Kent, with exciting things to do over the weekend and beyond. From live music in stunning seafront venues to an entire festival dedicated to ice cream, here’s how you can see out the summer in style. Looking for more inspiration? Be sure to take a look at our What’s On: Summer 2025 Guide and Family Friendly Events Guide.   

Book an End of Summer Stay in Kent

It’s not too late to squeeze the last drops out of summer – we have a broad selection of holiday cottages throughout Kent, including a selection of last-minute options for those seeking a spontaneous weekend away.  

What’s On in Kent This August Bank Holiday

Explore a few of the best things to do in Kent around the August bank holiday weekend in 2025. 

Hythe Food Festival

Location: Hythe Green, Kent (CT21 6JQ)

Dates: 23rd, 24th & 25th August 

Held every year over the August bank holiday weekend, Hythe Festival is a celebration of food, music and Kentish culture. With over 70 food stalls, free entry and easy on-site parking, it’s a fantastic choice for a bank holiday day out in Kent. Your four-legged friends are welcome to attend, too, but they must stay on a lead.  

Folkestone Triennial

Location: Folkestone, Kent

Dates: 19 July – 19 October 2025

One of the UK’s most ambitious art exhibitions, the Folkestone Triennial transforms the town into a large-scale contemporary art gallery. International artists create site-specific works across streets, parks, beaches and buildings, making art accessible to everyone. It only runs every three years, making it a must-visit for 2025. 

Eat Folkestone Harbour Week

Location: The Harbour Arm, Folkestone (CT20 1QH)

Dates: From 26th August

Designed to encourage you to ‘try that spot you’ve been meaning to visit,’ the Eat Folkestone Harbour Week combines £10 bites and £20.15 set menus across all of its seafront cafes and kiosks for one week only. What’s more, there are plenty of music and cinema events to enjoy onsite too. 

Ice Cream Festival at Kent Life

Location: Kent Life Heritage Farm Park, Maidstone (ME14 3AU)

Dates: 23rd – 25th August 

 A 28-acre site of historic farming and family fun, Kent Life is hosting an ice cream festival over the bank holiday weekend. A must for family-friendly holidays in Kent, little ones will love the live music and entertainment, which is set to include a foam party disco and bouncy castles. Not to mention, an endless choice of ice cream flavours. 

Brogdale Cider Festival

Location: Brogdale Collections, Faversham (ME13 8XZ)

Dates: 23rd & 24th August 

Set amongst beautiful orchards, the Brogdale Cider Festival is a celebration of Kentish cider-making at its best. With over 40 local ciders to sample, visitors can enjoy live music, artisan food stalls, family activities, and rural crafts throughout the weekend. From cider-tasting to tractor rides, there’s something for all ages, making it a great family day out. 

Sandwich Festival

Location: Sandwich, Kent (Various locations) 

Dates: 23rd – 25th August 

A true celebration of community spirit, history, and local culture, the annual Sandwich Festival brings together music, parades, classic cars, food stalls, and family fun throughout the town. Showcasing the charm of one of England’s best-preserved medieval towns, this is a great opportunity to admire the postcard-perfect streets in a carnival-esque atmosphere. Whether you’re browsing market stalls, enjoying live performances, or joining the community parade, it’s a highlight of the summer calendar.