Calendar of Kent Coast Events
For a great day out by the beach check out our guide to Kent Coast events and seaside festivals taking place each year. If you are looking for things to do and find out what’s on in Kent. Find out what’s on in 2025 from Bank holiday weekends and annual events. Food festivals, sailing and sporting events, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
Kent Coast events and highlights throughout the year.
MARCH
Broadstairs Food Festival
The Broadstairs Food Festival is a celebrated event that showcases local and regional food and drink, featuring a variety of exhibitors from Kent and neighboring counties. The festival is known for its vibrant atmosphere, offering visitors the chance to sample a wide array of culinary delights, including fresh produce, artisan foods, and local beverages. It is free to attend and typically includes around 100 stalls, along with various activities and entertainment for all ages. The festival aims to support local independent food and drink businesses, making it a key highlight for food enthusiasts in the area.
JUNE
Broadstairs Dickens Festival
The Broadstairs Dickens Festival in 2025 is set to take place from June 13th to June 15th. This annual event celebrates the legacy of Charles Dickens, who frequently visited Broadstairs, and features a variety of activities such as a grand parade, theatrical performances, and Victorian-themed events, continuing the tradition of honoring the author’s connection to the town.
JUNE
Folkstone Festival
The Folkestone Festival is a vibrant series of events held in Folkestone, Kent, featuring a diverse range of activities including music, dance, and community celebrations. With performances scheduled every weekend at the Folkestone Bandstand. The program includes various music genres and community events, such as a fun dog show, showcasing local talent and fostering community spirit.
JULY
Broadstairs Water Gala
The Broadstairs Water Gala in 2024 is on Wednesday, July 24th. This annual event offers a full day and evening of free activities for all ages, taking place on Viking Bay and the surrounding areas. The 2024 gala will feature a Viking theme to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the arrival of the Hugin Viking Ship, including events like paddleboard lessons, beach games, a sandcastle competition, and a firework finale at 9:45 PM
JULY
101 Run
Showcasing over 50 of the best custom and vintage motorcycles from across the UK & beyond, it has quickly become the hottest 2 wheel exhibition on the summer calendar.
AUGUST
Broadstairs Folk Week
Broadstairs Folk Week is a vibrant annual festival celebrating folk music and dance, held in the seaside town of Broadstairs, Kent. In 2024, the festival will take place from August 9th to August 16th, featuring around 400 events, including workshops, concerts, ceilidhs, and a Craft and Music Fair. Headline acts for 2024 include notable artists like Oysterband and Kathryn Tickell, along with a variety of family-friendly activities and performances in local pubs.
AUGUST
Ramsgate Week
Ramsgate Week is an annual sailing regatta organised by the Royal Temple Yacht Club, celebrating the sport of sailing in the scenic Ramsgate harbor. The event typically features a series of races, social activities, and entertainment, attracting sailors and spectators alike. For 2025, Ramsgate Week is scheduled to take place in August.
AUGUST
Eastbourne Airbourne
Eastbourne Airbourne is a renowned international airshow held annually along Eastbourne’s stunning seafront, attracting nearly a million visitors over four days. In 2025, the event will be the 31st year, featuring an impressive lineup of flying displays, including performances by the Red Arrows, RAF Typhoon, and various aerobatic teams, along with ground activities and evening entertainment.
AUGUST
Whitstable Harbour Day
Whitstable Harbour Day is a lively event celebrating the town’s maritime heritage, featuring a variety of activities centered around the harbor. Attendees can enjoy fresh seafood, local crafts, and entertainment, making it a great day out for families and visitors alike. In 2025, Whitstable Harbour Day is scheduled in August.
AUGUST
Margate Soul Festival
The UK’s most anticipated Soul Festival is back. Margate Soul Festival takes place each year along the seafront, bringing together an exciting international line up over 3 days.
AUGUST
Whitstable Town Regatta
The Whitstable Town Regatta is a traditional sailing event that has been celebrated for many years, showcasing local boating skills and community spirit. This year’s regatta will take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend, specifically on August 24th, 2024, featuring two races per day along with various family-friendly activities and entertainment.
AUGUST
Ramsgate Festival of Sound
The Ramsgate Festival of Sound is an annual event celebrating music and sound art, now in its seventh year. In 2025, the festival will take place in August, featuring a diverse lineup of performances, installations, and workshops, including a synth concert at St George’s Church and a family day at Ellington Park.
SEPTEMBER
Whitstable Oyster Festival
One of Whitstable’s most popular events. The Whitstable Oyster Festival, also known as the Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival, is a vibrant celebration of the town’s rich oyster heritage, featuring a variety of activities centered around this beloved mollusc. Traditionally held in September, the festival includes live music, food stalls, family-friendly events, and the blessing of the oysters, all aimed at celebrating the local culture and community spirit.
SEPTEMBER
Broadstairs Food Festival
Broadstairs Food Festival in September 2025. The festival will take place in September at Victoria Gardens, featuring over 100 stalls showcasing local and regional food and drink. This event will include various activities, including food tastings and demonstrations, celebrating the culinary offerings of the area. Entry to the festival is free, although donations are welcome
Places to go in Kent – by the beach
Looking for exciting events on the Kent coast? Broadstairs, Margate, and Whitstable host lively happenings regularly with festivals, live music, theatre, and comedy.
Explore all beaches on the Kent Coast
Discover Kent beaches
If you are going to a coastal event in Kent, check out some of the other beaches nearby
Top Kent Beaches
Looking for top Kent coast destinations? Miles of sandy beaches, traditional seaside towns and family attractions. Walk the coastal path or find family friendly Blue Flag beaches. There are sandy beaches in Kent which are safe for swimming as well as dog friendly beaches for long walks with our four legged friends.
Blue Flag
Family Friendly award winning beaches
Dog friendly
For long walks with our four legged friends.
What’s On
Find out What’s On – from festivals to cultural events along the coast
Beach Guide
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Enjoy the UK coastline.