Celebrate love at Folkestone Pride

Every summer, Folkestone Pride brings one of the region’s most colourful and inclusive celebrations to the seaside town. On Saturday 25 July 2026, The Leas Bandstand and surrounding areas will be filled with joy, music and community spirit as locals and visitors alike take part in a vibrant Pride festival.

Expect a lively parade celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, performances on the bandstand, artisan stalls, food & drink vendors, and plenty of entertainment for all ages.

The event is free to attend and welcomes people from all walks of life to join in the festivities and show support for equality and diversity. It’s a brilliant way to experience Folkestone’s warm, welcoming atmosphere and connect with local culture in a meaningful, upbeat setting.

Community meets storytelling at the Folkestone world record book swap!

On 28 March 2026, Folkestone’s Sunny Sands will host a playful attempt at the largest ever community book exchange. As part of the creative project Folkestone is a Library, hundreds of readers will gather with a book to swap, share stories, and celebrate the town’s love of reading!

But this is far more than simply trading paperbacks. It’s about sharing ideas, discovering new authors, meeting fellow book lovers and becoming part of something record-breaking. Throughout the day, expect live entertainment, pop-up performances and plenty of seaside atmosphere. Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a casual holiday paperback fan, or simply curious to witness a world-record attempt in action, this unique event promises a heart-warming showcase of Folkestone’s community spirit – and a truly memorable way to experience the town in 2026!

A fabulous, floating celebration

Every two years in August, the Royal Military Canal in Hythe transforms into a spectacular open-air theatre of colour and creativity. The Hythe Venetian Fete on 19 August 2026 features a dazzling Grand Parade of themed barges, live music, quirky floats and water-borne fun. It’s a uniquely British festival with canal pageantry and family friendly vibes.

A real celebration of creativity, teamwork and community, it’s an event that continues to be super popular with the locals and visitors alike. Bring a picnic and blanket, or sample some tasty dishes from the street food vendors that line the banks as you soak up the carnival atmosphere.

Make sure you stick around for illuminated parade after dark for a real spectacle!

Folkestone’s soundtrack to Spring

Folkestone is proudly celebrating its status as the world’s first official Music Town with a vibrant, month-long festival dedicated to the power of sound. Music in May transforms the town into a living, breathing soundtrack, with gigs, jam sessions, workshops, busking, talks and networking events taking place throughout the month.

With events hosted across more than 25 venues, from intimate bars and creative spaces to outdoor stages, there’s music around every corner. It’s not just about watching though – members of the public can get involved too, thanks to free educational workshops and community sessions designed to inspire the next generation of budding musicians.

Whether you’re discovering new artists, reconnecting with live music, or soaking up the atmosphere, Music in May is the perfect reason to plan a springtime escape to Folkestone in 2026.

Folkestone Book Festival – Ideas and imagination in autumn

Returning from 12–22 November 2026, the Folkestone Book Festival brings authors, thinkers and book lovers together for discussions, readings and discovery.

One of the UK’s longest-running literary festivals, it fills Folkestone with thought-provoking conversation and storytelling magic. Expect a festival that lives beyond the stage, in foyers, queues and those unexpected conversations that stay with you long after an event ends.

Whether you are there for world-class headliners, the electric Local Authors Showcase, or the inspiring Primary School Series, there is something for everyone!

Marshland Merriment

Celebrate summer on the Marsh at the annual New Romney Country Fayre on Saturday 25 July. Known as Romney Marsh’s biggest free community day out, the fayre features arena entertainment, parades, local produce stalls and family fun – just perfect for all ages.

This year’s parade theme is musicals – from Oliver to Paddington, Matilda to Le Mis, The Lion King to Mary Poppins, Phantom of the Opera to Six and everything in between!

Summertime community fun at its best!

A Taste of Community & Celebration at Hythe Food Festival

Every August Bank Holiday weekend, Hythe comes alive with the We Love Hythe Life Food Festival, a beloved three-day celebration of food, drink and local community spirit on Hythe Green. This free-entry event brings together 70+ stalls offering everything from gourmet street food and artisanal treats to globally inspired dishes and locally sourced produce.

Whether you’re craving sizzling tacos, sweet treats, international flavours or classic British fare, there’s something delicious for every palate – including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. The atmosphere is relaxed and festive, with live music setting a vibrant soundtrack as friends and families explore the food stalls, sip on local craft ales and cocktails, and enjoy the summer sunshine.

Come hungry, leave happy, and discover why the Hythe Food Festival is one of the highlights of the summer calendar in 2026!

Seaside Legends

Step into seaside legend at the Day of Syn Festival, returning to Dymchurch from 28th–31st August over the August Bank Holiday weekend. This much-loved event transforms the village into a lively celebration of local history, community spirit, and good old-fashioned seaside fun.

The festival is inspired by the mysterious fictional hero Dr Syn, also known as the Scarecrow — the daring smuggling vicar created by author Russell Thorndyke. His famous adventures were set across the windswept landscapes of Romney Marsh, adding a dash of drama and intrigue to the festival’s storytelling roots.

Visitors can expect a packed programme of live entertainment, colourful parades, family activities, and plenty of food and drink — all wrapped in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of this unique coastal community.

Whether you’re a fan of folklore, looking for family-friendly fun, or simply want an excuse for a Bank Holiday by the sea, the Day of Syn is a brilliant time to discover Dymchurch at its most lively and memorable.

Summer Sounds at the Bandstand

Nothing says summer in Folkestone quite like an afternoon of live music by the sea, and the Folkestone Bandstand delivers just that. From 30th May to 19th September, visitors can enjoy free performances most Saturdays and Sundays from 2.30–4.30pm, creating the perfect soundtrack to a relaxed coastal day.

Organised by Folkestone Festivals, the programme brings together a lively mix of traditional bandstand favourites and modern crowd-pleasers. Expect everything from the stirring sounds of brass and concert bands to lively tribute acts and themed events. Highlights this year include energetic steel band rhythms from Pantasy Steel Band, crowd-pleasing favourites like ABBA and Michael Bublé tribute performances, and a special Pink Floyd weekend that promises to draw music fans from across the region.

With many performances free to attend and set against sweeping sea views, the Folkestone Bandstand programme is a wonderful way to experience local talent, soak up the summer atmosphere, and enjoy an easy going afternoon of entertainment by the coast.

Seaside Flavours & Fun at the Sandgate Sea & Food Festival

On Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August 2026, the coastal village of Sandgate comes alive with the Sea & Food Festival along Granville Parade and around Sandgate Castle. Enjoy fresh seafood, artisan stalls, live music, and family entertainment, all set against the stunning seaside backdrop.

The weekend kicks off with Saturday evening music and a free fireworks display, followed by a full day on Sunday of food, music, crafts, and community fun. Local cafés and restaurants join in, offering tasty menus and festive vibes.

Whether you’re after delicious bites, live tunes, or a classic British seaside atmosphere, the Sandgate Sea & Food Festival is a must-see highlight of the summer.

Colour and Creativity at Charivari Day 

Get ready for colour, creativity and plenty of joyful noise as Charivari Day returns to Folkestone on Saturday 11th July 2026. This much-loved summer spectacle begins at 2pm, winding its way from The Stade through the town centre before finishing at the Folkestone Bandstand, where celebrations continue by the sea.

Expect to see towering, handcrafted head sculptures carried through the streets, alongside hundreds of school children dressed in vibrant colours inspired by the year’s theme. The parade is curated by artist Brigitte Orasinski from Strange Cargo, whose work has helped shape the town’s reputation for bold and imaginative arts events.

Charivari Day is wonderfully loud, energetic and full of personality. Visitors can expect fantastic costumes, live music, and a buzzing atmosphere as the whole community comes together to celebrate creativity in the streets. It’s a brilliant day to experience Folkestone at its most colourful and welcoming.

Classic & Supercar Showcase

Set in the heart of the picturesque village of Elham, this Father’s Day weekend brings a must-see celebration for automotive enthusiasts and visitors alike. On Sunday 21st June 2026, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, the village square will transform into a vibrant showcase of heritage and performance as the Classic & Supercar Square event takes centre stage.

Expect an impressive gathering of beautifully maintained classic cars alongside sleek modern supercars, offering a striking contrast that celebrates both automotive history and cutting-edge design. Whether you’re a dedicated car enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable day out in the Kent countryside, the event provides a lively yet relaxed atmosphere right in the village centre.

Visitors can make a full morning of it by enjoying food and drinks at the local pub, The King’s Arms Elham, which will be serving throughout the event. It’s the perfect setting to unwind, soak up the atmosphere, and treat Dad to something a little different this Father’s Day.

Run the Coast & Countryside – Kent’s 2026 Running Events

Few regions offer runners the variety and scenery of east Kent, where coastal paths, rolling countryside, and historic towns combine to create the perfect backdrop for every kind of race. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply looking for a fresh way to explore the landscape, 2026 brings a brilliant calendar of organised runs to get your trainers on and your motivation up.

The season kicks off with the popular (and flat!) Lydd Half Marathon guiding runners through quiet roads and expansive marshland scenery. There’s also a 20-mile option for the marathon runners out there!

The much-loved Folkestone 10  takes place on Good Friday (3 April), drawing runners to the vibrant coastline of Folkestone. Expect sea views, challenging climbs, and an energetic atmosphere as locals and visitors come together to take on the 10-mile route.

The Romney Marsh 10K offers a flatter, faster course across the sweeping landscapes of Romney Marsh on Sunday 12 July. Known for its open horizons and peaceful rural roads, it’s ideal for anyone looking to push pace or enjoy a more relaxed, scenic run through one of Kent’s most unique natural environments.

Spring also sees the return of the Folkestone Half Marathon, a standout event that showcases the town’s dramatic cliffs and harbour scenery. It’s a race that balances challenge with unforgettable views, making it a firm favourite for seasoned runners and first-timers alike. This year it falls on Sunday 27 September.

Alongside these organised events, runners can enjoy the consistency and camaraderie of the weekly Folkestone Parkrun, a free, timed 5K that welcomes all abilities. Join the locals every Saturday at 9am on the Leas.

With so many opportunities to run, explore, and challenge yourself, 2026 is the perfect year to lace up your trainers and discover Kent step by step!