Christmas Events Across the District
Folkestone Christmas Lights Switch-On – Friday 22 November 2025
The festive season begins with the much-loved Folkestone Christmas Lights Switch-On. From 5pm, families gather on Guidhall street. The popular Festive Parade will once again make its way from the Leas Cliff Hall to the Town Hall and the Grand Firework Finale will be fired from the Harbour Arm with viewing points at The Stade, Harbour, East Cliff and surrounding areas.
Sandgate Christmas Event & Lights Turn-On
If Folkestone doesn’t take your fancy, Sandgate sparkles with its own Christmas Event & Lights Turn-On. From late afternoon, the village fills with festive cheer as Santa’s Grotto opens, choirs sing seasonal songs, and Chichester Hall hosts a craft market brimming with handmade treasures. Independent shops stay open late, making this a relaxed evening of browsing and Christmas spirit.
Santa Specials – Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, 29 November to 24 December 2025
Step aboard the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway for the magical Santa Specials, running from 29 November to 24 December. Families enjoy a festive steam train journey from New Romney to Hythe, followed by a visit to Santa’s grotto where each child receives a gift. With seasonal refreshments and entry to the Model Railway Exhibition included, this cherished tradition is a highlight of the festive season.
Hythe Mistletoe Fayre – Early December 2025
December brings the much-anticipated Hythe Mistletoe Fayre (exact date TBC). The village centre comes alive with artisan stalls, street food, live entertainment, and seasonal greenery, all under twinkling lights. A perfect opportunity for festive shopping, the fayre is as much about community spirit as it is about Christmas gifts.
Mental Elf Run – Sunday 7 December 2025
On Sunday 7 December, the Mental Elf Run returns to Folkestone’s Leas. Hosted by South Kent Mind, this inclusive 5km fun run sees elves of all ages walking, jogging, or running along the seafront from 12:00pm. With prizes for the best costumes and funds raised for local mental health services, it’s a joyful way to combine festive fun with wellbeing.
Harbour Arm Christmas Market – Weekends, 22 November to 21 December 2025
Every weekend from 22 November to 21 December, the Harbour Arm Christmas Market transforms Folkestone’s iconic promenade into a festive wonderland. Wooden chalets line the seafront offering artisan gifts, local produce, and seasonal food, with carols and live music filling the air. Visitors can sip mulled wine, shop for unique presents, and enjoy the sea views – a magical Folkestone tradition.
Leas Cliff Hall – The High-Flying Adevntures of Peter Pan (12–31 December)
Join Peter Pan, Wendy, and the Lost Boys at Leas Cliff Hall for a festive adventure from 12 to 31 December. With swashbuckling pirates, mischievous mermaids, and plenty of audience participation, this panto is packed with laughs and magic for all ages. A relaxed performance on 16 December ensures everyone can enjoy the fun.
The Tower Theatre – Jack and the Beanstalk (12–29 December)
Over at The Tower Theatre, the Folkestone-Hythe Operatic & Dramatic Society (FHODS) presents Jack and the Beanstalk from 12 to 29 December. Expect all the classic panto fun – comedy, music, and larger-than-life characters – delivered with FHODS’ trademark flair and energy.