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2026 is set to be a big year in the Garden of England, with a wealth of events ranging from unmissable food festivals to cultural experiences like no other. We’ve rounded up some of the biggest dates for your diary – keep reading to discover the biggest events in Kent for 2026!
Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition
Dates: 28th March – 31st August 2026
Where is it? The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4TZ
What to expect: Step into an oceanic world of breathtaking imagery capturing marine life, conservation stories, and underwater wonder from some of the world’s best photographers.
Winnie The Pooh Turns 100!
Dates: TBC – Various throughout summer 2026
Where is it? Ashdown Forest, Wych Cross, Forest Row RH18 5JP
What to expect: Celebrate a century of everyone’s favourite bear with themed walks, exhibitions, and family fun in the woodland that inspired the Hundred Acre Wood itself.
Broadstairs Food Festival
Dates: 3rd – 5th April 2026
Where is it? Victoria Gardens, Broadstairs, CT10 1QL
What to expect: Free, family-friendly, and packed with delicious produce, the popular Broadstairs Food Festival is back in 2026. Don’t worry if you’re not around during Easter, though, as the event also has an autumn offering – dates TBC.
Canterbury Wine Festival
Dates: 15th & 16th May 2026
Where is it? Westgate Hall, 3 Westgate Hall Rd, Canterbury CT1 2BT
What to expect: Raise a glass to Kent’s award‑winning vineyards with tastings, expert talks, and local food pairings in a lively, social setting.
Lovebox at Dreamland
Dates: 29th & 30th May 2026
Where is it? Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ
What to expect: Dance the weekend away as Lovebox brings its signature mix of chart‑toppers, DJs, and vibrant festival energy to Margate’s seafront amusement park.
Faversham’s Festival of Transport
Dates: 16th & 17th May 2026
Where is it? The historic town center of Faversham, Kent, specifically in the Market Place, Court Street, Preston Street, and Standard Quay.
What to expect: Marvel at vintage vehicles, from steam engines to classic cars, and discover the stories behind them at the family-friendly Faversham Festival of Transport. Showcasing everything from classic cars to ‘tractors through time,’ the festival is a must for any engineering enthusiast.
The Kent Food Festival
Dates: 16th & 17th May 2026
Where is it? Kings Valley, Knockholt, Sevenoaks, TN14 7PH
What to expect: A lively celebration of Kent’s best street food, artisan stalls, and live music, all set in picturesque countryside surroundings.
The Kent Garden Show
Dates: 23rd – 25th May 2026
Where is it? Kent Showground, Detling, Maidstone ME14 3JF
What to expect: Discover stunning garden displays, expert demonstrations, and hundreds of exhibitors offering everything from plants to outdoor furniture.
CAMRA Real Ale & Cider Festival
Dates: 5th June 2026
Where is it? Tenterden Town Station, Station Rd, Tenterden TN30 6HE
What to expect: Enjoy a classic day out sampling local ales and ciders alongside live music, heritage steam trains, and hearty Kentish hospitality.
Pride Canterbury
Dates: 6th June 2026
Where is it? Canterbury
What to expect: Expect a day filled with colour, parades, live music, and celebration as the city comes alive in support of love and inclusion.
The Kent County Show
Dates: 3rd – 5th July 2026
Where is it? Kent Showground, Detling, Maidstone ME14 3JF
What to expect: A true countryside celebration featuring livestock competitions, local produce, craft stalls, and family entertainment across three fun‑filled days.
Betteshanger Rocks
Dates: 17th – 19th July 2026
Where is it? Betteshanger Country Park, Sandwich Rd, Deal, CT14 0BF
What to expect: A weekend of live music and festival vibes in the great outdoors, with food, camping, and a stellar lineup across multiple stages.
Margate Soul Weekend
Dates: 31st July – 2nd August 2026
Where is it? Newgate Lower Promenade, Cliftonville and other venues across Margate
What to expect: Groove to soulful beats by the sea as Margate hosts one of the UK’s best-loved soul music festivals, complete with DJs, live acts, and beachside parties.
Broadstairs Folk Week
Dates: 7th – 14th August 2026
Where is it? Broadstairs, Kent, CT10 2QQ
What to expect: Soak up a full week of folk music, dance, workshops, and seaside charm as the town brims with songs and celebration.
Margate Pride
Dates: 8th August 2026
Where is it? Margate
What to expect: Exact itinerary of events TBC – keep an eye on the website linked below to stay informed!
Smuggler’s Festival Deal
Dates: 27th – 30th August 2026
Where is it? Top secret! In a woodland near Deal. (Address is sent to ticket holders only)
What to expect: Hidden in the woods, this secretive independent festival blends live music, art, and good food for an unforgettable summer escape.
Canterbury Festival
Dates: 16th – 31st October 2026
Where is it? Various locations throughout Canterbury
What to expect: Exact itinerary of events TBC – keep an eye on the website linked below to stay informed!
