Festive fun! 50 family activities to do this season
From panto to light shows, ice skating and meeting with jolly Mr Claus himself – discover the top festive things to do in Kent this Christmas.
MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS | LIGHT TRAILS | THEATRE | ACTIVITIES | ICE RINKS | MERRY MARKETS | CAROLS
MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS
Hever Castle, Fri 22 Nov – Tues 24 Dec
This Christmas, celebrate 10 years of festive magic at Hever Castle. Explore the Castle, gardens, and lake as they transform into a glowing wonderland after dark. Enjoy reimagined classic tales, meet beloved characters, and indulge in shopping, dining, and fun fairground rides. For an extra-special treat, visit Father Christmas in his cosy Grotto, where Mother Christmas and cheerful elves will greet you along a tree-lined path. Every child receives a gift, and the whole experience is tailored to make Christmas unforgettable. Book now for this enchanting holiday experience – available daily until Christmas Eve!
Grottos in Tunbridge Wells, Sat 16 Nov – Tues 24 Dec
There’s not one but two Grottos in town, Father Christmas is back at Royal Victoria Place or discover the enchanting Royal Grotto in the beautiful surroundings of Calverley Grounds. Enter the magical world through the grand gates where you’ll decorate your own gingerbread men in Mrs Christmas’ Gingerbread kitchen and enjoy a private visit with Father Christmas in his study where every child will receive a small gift.
Mission Christmas, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, Fri 24 Nov – Tues 24 Dec
Step into the secret sub-station at The Historic Dockyard Chatham for a brand-new festive adventure! It’s “All Elves on Deck” at the magical Elf Academy, where you’ll learn how to make toys, wrap presents, and help with special deliveries. Graduate as an Elf Apprentice and unlock the magic of Christmas. As a reward, enjoy a personal visit with Father Christmas, where your little ones will receive a special gift to take home. Ready to join Santa’s team?
Kent Life, Sat 30 Nov – Tues 24 Dec
Get ready for a festive extravaganza at Kent Life’s Christmas Experience where you can Meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto and little ones can pick a special gift from the toy shop. But that’s not all! Explore the sweet shop, build your own teddy bear and enjoy a live show. Don’t forget to hop on The Jingle Express, savour festive treats at The Snow Inn, and decorate gingerbread at Mrs. Christmas’s Kitchen. Adults can enjoy mulled wine with a mince pie, while the kids feed friendly farm animals and make reindeer food. With an all-day pass to Kent Life, you’ll enjoy non-stop festive fun!
Santa’s Grotto with talking letterbox, Canterbury Christmas Market, Sat 30 Nov – Tues 24 Dec
Ready for a magical adventure? Step into Santa’s Grotto for an unforgettable festive journey! Meet Mrs. Christmas as she welcomes you with a sprinkle of magic, and get ready to interact with Santa’s cheerful elves. The kids will decorate letters to Santa, then post them in the enchanting Talking Letterbox, before meeting the big man himself in his grotto. Every child receives a special gift from Santa. Booking is strongly recommended! Open on selected dates and times from Sat 30 Nov til Christmas Eve.
Santa Specials, Kent & East Sussex Railway, Sat 30 Nov – Tues 24 Dec
All aboard for a magical Christmas adventure with the Kent and East Sussex Railway! Since 1974, they’ve been welcoming families to meet Santa on their festive steam trains. Enjoy a 75-minute journey in decorated carriages as Santa delivers personalised gifts to your children, all from the comfort of your seat. The 2024 experience includes: free rides on the vintage gallopers, a family photo, a visit to the winter wonderland and mulled wine or a hot drink for the adults. Don’t miss your chance to make lasting holiday memories!
Rare Breeds Centre, Ashford, Sat 7 – Mon 23 Dec
Join the most fun and festive day on Rare Breed’s farm for their sparkly, magical Santa’s Grotto with all the fun activities and entertainment. Visit Santa and his cheeky elves in the magical grotto for a 15 – 20 min interactive performance, receive a present from Santa, and have your photo taken with him by professional photographers. Enjoy festive activities around the farm, including a Christmas Word Trail, Christmas decoration making, and gingerbread decorating. Each ticket includes full-day access to the farm, indoor soft play area, adventure playgrounds, and get to meet the animals.
Santa’s Grotto, The Alex, Faversham, Sat 21 – Mon 23 Dec
Step into a winter wonderland at this festive Santa’s Grotto! Explore Christmas gifting stalls, enjoy children’s crafts, and indulge in mulled wine and mince pies – all before meeting Santa ahead of his big night! Adults enter free. Don’t miss the magic and book asap.
Christmas at Bewl Water, Lamberhurst, Sat 23 Nov – Tues 24 Dec
Watch and explore as a tale of magic unfolds in the heart of Bewl Water’s enchanted woodland. Tickets include four festive activities, a visit to Santa’s Grotto, a present for each child and live Christmas storytelling performances so plenty of fun to be had. Plus stop off in the sweet shop for some marshmallows to toast and explore the themed magical lands and play zones all filled with plenty of photo opportunities.
Christmas World’s Magical Festive Grotto, Dreamland, Margate, Sat 14 – Mon 23 Dec
Experience the magic of Christmas World at Dreamland with a visit to the festive grotto, where kids will receive a gift box featuring a teddy and a special Christmas storybook. Enjoy fun activities like reindeer food-making and bauble decorating alongside Santa’s helpful elves plus indoor snowball fights and a thrilling electric sleigh ride. One adult enters free with each child. Book now for festive fun!
Festive call with Elsa or Doorstep Elf Package, Kent Academy of Musical Theatre, available now
Ok it might not be the main man himself! But you could make your child’s dream come true with these packages from Kent Academy of Musical Theatre. Watch their face light up as Queen Elsa calls to chat about snowflakes, adventure and all things magical. Enjoy a live 5 minute personalised video call with Elsa including songs and stories about Anna, Olaf and Arendelle. Spots available on Sun 15 Dec and Thurs 19 Dec for £10. Or have a magical elf right on your doorstep! Bringing smiles, laughter and a sprinkle of festive cheer, a friendly elf will stop by your home to bring your little ones a nice list certificate, a small gift, the chance to play a game and have photos taken. Serving ME16 and surrounding areas. £20 for one child and £6 for each additional child.
LIGHT TRAILS
Illuminate at Tonbridge Castle, Sun 24 Nov – Sun 29 Dec
This winter, Tonbridge Castle transforms into a magical Christmas destination, brimming with festive cheer and twinkling lights! Explore the spectacular Winter Light Trail, now with an extended route for 2024, offering breathtaking displays across even more of the castle’s historic grounds. Don’t wait – peak sessions are selling fast! Indulge your taste buds at the Alpine Food & Drink Village, where traditional bratwurst, juicy burgers, noodles, and marshmallow toasting stations await. Plus, shop till you drop at the Christmas Market, open until 23 Dec, with handpicked traders selling unique gifts and festive treasures.
Bedgebury, Goudhurst, Fri 15 Nov – Weds 1 Jan 2025
The Bedgebury Pinetum becomes adorned with colourful lights, turning into a magical wonderland by night once again. We’re talking singing trees saturated in colour-changing lights, giant baubles and snowflakes – and of course you won’t wanna miss the breath-taking tunnel of light. There’ll also be a special appearance from the big man himself. You’ll want to pre-book ASAP as tickets and slots sell out super fast.
Hever Castle, Hever, Fri 22 Nov – Fri 3 Jan 2025
Enjoy a walk under the stars as the enchanting Hever Castle comes alive with magical Christmas Lights, see the Gardens and Grounds festooned with fabulous colours, twinkling lights plus spectacular illuminations and music. Plus get to meet festive characters, ride the Big Wheel or enjoy a Train Ride, explore the traditionally decorated rooms inside the Castle, enjoy relaxed Christmas shopping in the Gift shops and feast on seasonal delights in the cafe and kiosks. Phew!
Betteshanger Park, Deal, Sat 23 Nov – Mon 30 Dec
Experience the magic of Christmas at Betteshanger Park! Wander through enchanting light displays, festive scenes, and twinkling pathways. Perfect for all ages, this festive journey is sure to brighten your holiday season.
Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Fri 22 Nov – Weds 1 Jan 2025
Experience the magic of Christmas Lights at Leeds Castle where you can wander through sparkling tunnels, see giant glowing reeds and shimmering lilies, and catch a glimpse of Father Christmas along the way. Enjoy festive treats from street food vendors and sip on a hot chocolate, or toast a marshmallow under the stars. The perfect place to start a new festive tradition with friends and family!
THEATRE
Cinderella, The Hazlitt Theatre, Sat 30 Nov – Tues 31 Dec
Tickets are now on sale for Cinderella at The Hazlitt Theatre, a legendary tale of mischievous magic and midnight love. Follow Cinderella on her journey to the Ball with all the classic pantomime spells – roaring comedy, smash-hit songs, and a whirl-wind romance. You’ll meet Cinderella’s evil step-sisters, the Fairy Godmother, and – of course! – Prince Charming. Grab your glass slippers, put on your ball gown, and make your way to the Hazlitt Theatre before midnight!
Peter Pan, The Malthouse, Weds 11 Dec – Sat 4 Jan 2025
Pantomime returns to the Malthouse in 2024 with the high-flying adventures of PETER PAN! Brought to you by the same creative team as our record-breaking productions of ‘Beauty and the Beast’, ‘Cinderella’ and ‘Snow White’, PETER PAN, promises to be even more magical, with a dazzling West End cast, glittering sets, and costumes and side-splitting comedy for the whole family to enjoy, with tickets starting from just £10.00! Hurry, the CROC is ticking, book today!
Snow White, EM Forster Theatre, Fri 13 Dec – Sun 5 Jan 2025
Wicked Productions are back at the EM Forster Theatre for their 9th annual rollicking pantomime romp Snow White. Will the Wicked Queen ‘reign’ supreme or will she ‘slip up’ on a poisoned apple? Can Sarah, the Cook and Muddles ‘whisk’ up a plan to save the day? Will Snow White find her Prince and live ‘appley’ ever after? Don’t miss the fairest pantomime of them all.
Sleeping Beauty, Trinity Theatre, Sat 14 Dec – Sun 5 Jan 2025
Pantomime is back at Trinity – oh yes it is! Sleeping Beauty is the classic fairytale we all know and love, jam-packed with music and laughter for the whole family to enjoy. Don’t sleep on this truly magical production that will get you dancing out of your seat and rolling in the aisles with laughter plus an awe-inspiring illusion never before seen at Trinity.
The Ice That Nearly Cancelled Christmas!, Penshurst Place, Sat 7 – Mon 23 Dec
Pop by Penshurst Place and enjoy their popular mini panto experience held in the medieval Baron’s Hall as Father Christmas battles the Ice Queen to rescue Mother Christmas, save the Elves, and stop Christmas from being cancelled! Ideal for children aged 0-12 years old. Tickets are £8.50pp which includes access to the Adventure Playground after your show (weather dependent). There’s also quiet sessions held on Sat 14 & Sun 22 Dec designed for children with special educational needs and disabilities, such as ASD or sensory processing disorders, to enjoy the panto in a more relaxed environment.
Fearless Fox and the Christmas Star, Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells, Weds 4 – Sun 29 Dec
Fox is in charge of planning the best Christmas party ever, but can’t seem to find the right decorations. All that changes when they spot a beautiful golden star on top of a Christmas tree in the town. Together with their friends – Squirrel, Old Deer and Little Owl – they hatch a harebrained plan to steal the star just in time for Christmas. What could possibly go wrong?! Find the show at The Little Vic Theatre, located in the Upper Mall in Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells.
The Snowsmith, The Gulbenkian, Sat 7 – Thurs 19 Dec
Get lost in Half a String’s world of breathtaking puppetry, live songs and folk music, all led by captivating storytellers. Discover this original winter tale that will enthral the whole family, and answer the question: will it snow this winter?
A Christmas Carol, The Alex, Faversham, Fri 13 Dec
A Christmas Carol is perhaps the best-loved tale ever woven by Charles Dickens. Certainly, it’s one of the most heart-warming festive stories of all time. In this wonderful, fifty-minute theatre version, you’ll follow the iconic Ebenezer Scrooge on his mysterious and transforming journey; see him change from miserable miser into joyful friend and benefactor. All the characters will be brought to vivid life by a cast of just four actors. Forget “bah, humbug!” – come and enjoy this truly magical favourite for all the family.
The Nutcracker, The Malthouse Theatre, Mon 16 Dec
Back with another dazzling treat, the Let’s All Dance Ballet Company presents family festive favourite, The Nutcracker. Expect fabulous dancing, gorgeous costumes, crystal clear story-telling and sumptuous music. Join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they travel through magical lands, and meet the Mouse King, Snow Queen and the Sugar Plum Fairy in the beautiful Land of Sweets. Suitable for all ages.
Snow White, Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks, Fri 6 – Tues 31 Dec
The Stag celebrates 15 years of panto in Sevenoaks with Jack and The Beanstalk this year! Silly Billy (aka Ant Payne), and Sevenoaks favourite Dame Jamie Alexander Wilson will be taking families on a giant adventure up the beanstalk. Want to leave the kids behind? The legendary Adults Only Performance on Fri 15 Nov is a hilarious night out for grown-ups only.
ACTIVITIES
Bagpuss Christmas Trail, Canterbury, Mon 18 Nov – Sun 22 Dec
Canterbury’s cobbled streets will be decked out with amazing Christmas window displays and what better way to explore them than with the Bagpuss and Bear Window Trail? Celebrating Bagpuss’s 50th anniversary, this fun trail kicks off at The Beaney, where you can see the original Bagpuss, collect stamps along the way, and end at Fenwick to meet the Canterbury Bear family. Don’t miss the special Bagpuss music performance at the Gulbenkian Arts Centre on Fri 29 Nov.
Christmas at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, Sun 8 & Sun 15 Dec
Join this festive family adventure featuring nature-inspired crafts, a magical wildlife trail, and hot chocolate by the campfire. Create a wooden hanging decoration, explore the reserve to help wildlife send their winter wishes to Father Christmas, and soak up the cosy seasonal atmosphere. Tickets are £12 for one child and adult, with additional options available. Sessions start at 1pm and 2:30pm, so dress for the weather and book early for this enchanting outdoor experience!
Christmas Printmaking Workshop, Goodnestone Park, Sat 7 Dec
Embrace the festive spirit with two inspiring workshops guaranteed to bring a personal touch to your holiday season. There’s the Christmas Printmaking Workshop on Sat 7 Dec (£95) where you’ll learn the art of Lino printing in the charming Coach House. Under Lynn’s expert guidance, you’ll design and carve your own Lino block to create bespoke Christmas cards and wrapping paper – perfect for impressing friends and family! By the end, you’ll leave with five custom cards, five sheets of wrapping paper, and your very own Lino block to use at home. Limited spaces!
The Elf Academy, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, Sat 7 – Tues 24 Dec
This December, Once Upon A Wish Events brings the 2024 Elf Academy to Millbrook! Kids can meet Elf Tinsel and Elf Fisbee for 45 mins of festive fun with games, singing, dancing, reindeer food making, and a chance to discover their Elf name. Perfect for ages 3 – 8 years(but all ages welcome). Tickets are £15 per child, including one adult. Are your little ones ready to graduate from Elf Academy?
Christmas at Tyland Barn, Maidstone, Sat 14 & Sat 21 Dec
Don’t miss this delightful family day out at Tyland Barn. Create a beautiful, nature-inspired hanging decoration, explore the grounds on a festive wildlife trail, and cosy up with a hot chocolate by the campfire. Perfect for all ages, tickets are £12 for one child and adult, with additional options available. Sessions start at 1pm and 2:30pm – don’t forget to wrap up warm!
Winterland, Bluewater, NOW – Sun 12 Jan 2025
At Bluewater, a world of wonder and excitement awaits. Winterland, located outside The Village near Zizzi, is a spectacular event offering an amazing selection of rides, games, attractions, and delicious treats for the whole family.
‘Tis The Season Christmas trail, Knole Park, Sevenoaks, Sat 23 Nov – Sun 5 Jan 2025
This year’s festive trail features poems and artwork from ’Tis The Season, Richard Jones’s advent calendar book filled with beloved Christmas poems and charming winter scenes. Explore Knole’s parkland, uncovering hidden poems in wooden deer and bird boxes. Once you’ve found all 12, head to the Bookshop for a prize (while supplies last). £3 per trail. Available daily until 5 Jan (except 24-25 Dec), 10am – 4pm. Normal Knole admission applies; pre-book online to guarantee entry.
Gingerbread Trail at Role Play Rascals, Faversham, Sat 21 – Tues 31 Dec
Mrs Christmas has baked some gingerbread people, but one has gone missing, can you complete our trail to find out which one has run away? There’s a small prize at the end! The trail is included in your role play session at no extra cost. One adult free per child.
Churchill’s Champagne Christmas, Thurs 14 Nov – Sun 5 Jan 2025
Step back to a sparkling 1930s Christmas party at Chartwell! Enjoy golden garlands, a cosy fire in the Sitting Room, Champagne in the Drawing Room, and a quiet retreat in the Library under the glow of a beautifully decorated tree. Then explore Chartwell’s gardens on the festive family trail, grab a trail sheet at the Visitor Centre, find stamping stations, and decorate your sheet for a prize (£2.50 per trail). Grounds open daily 10am-4pm, excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day plus misty views and frosty walks around the estate.
ICE RINKS
SKATE at Calverley Park, Tunbridge Wells, Fri 29 Nov – Sun 5 Jan 2025
SKATE Tunbridge Wells is back! Calverley Grounds transforms again into a magical ice rink, bringing festive cheer to Tunbridge Wells. Experience the thrill of skating under the lights in the heart of the town plus Bavarian Curling, rides on the Christmas Wheel and delicious street food and a bar. So grab your mittens and skates, and get read to make unforgettable memories with family and friends this festive season. Open seven a days a week from Fri 29 Nov til Sun 5 Jan 2025 (closed Christmas Day). The outdoor ice rink and festive stalls are only a five-minute walk from the train station and town centre.
Bluewater Shopping Centre, Tues 12 Nov – Sun 5 Jan 2025
Bluewater’s Ice Rink is back! Offering a fun-filled activity come rain, snow or shine, the undercover rink will be open throughout the festive period (excluding Christmas Day) until Sun Jan. There’ll be quiet sessions, as well as parent and toddler sessions for budding skaters. Penguin and seal skating aids will be available for little ones plus bob skates to help guests stay steady on the ice. What’s more, disco nights are back by popular demand this year!
MERRY MARKETS
Canterbury Christmas Market, Fri 15 Nov – Tues 24 Dec
The city of Canterbury certainly knows how to do Christmas – after all the first Christmas Market was held in the Cathedral Precincts back in 1383! This year the market promises to be more vibrant than ever. Take to the cobbled streets and Whitefrairs shopping area and browse through the luxury brands, high street favourites and boutiques. Then explore the breathtaking cathedral grounds filled with charming German-style wooden huts filled with 150 stallholders filled with delightful treats where you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list. Enjoy mouthwatering food and drink and fun activites from vintage-style carousel, mini-golf, interactive theatre and live music, including the beloved Saturday Shoppers’ Carol Services. Don’t miss late-night shopping on Weds 27 Nov (5-8pm) with parking for just £1 at Whitefriars. Experience the excitement of Christmas in this enchanting city!
The Pantiles Christmas Market, Tunbridge Wells, Fri 15 Nov – Tues 24 Dec
For the first time ever, The Pantiles will transform into a magical winter wonderland with festive stalls in wooden chalets, live entertainment from musicians and choirs, twinkling lights, a Christmas tree, and a visit to Santa’s Grotto. Don’t miss the grand lights switch-on with family fun to follow! Open 10am – 7pm.
Wealden Times Midwinter Fair, The Hop Farm, Thurs 14 – Sat 16 Nov
It’s our favourite time of year! Get tickets asap to enjoy 3 fabulous days of stylish shopping at Wealden Times Midwinter Fair. There’s no lovelier way to shop for original, handmade, and desirable Christmas gifts than browsing amongst 250+ handpicked exhibitors’ through a heated tented village. When you’re ready to refuel, the Holly Café or the Ivy Café will be serving delicious snacks and meals from vintage vans, whilst tea and cake will be on tap in the pretty tea tent. So why not grab the gang and make a day of it?!
Christmas Fair at Chartwell, Westerham, Thurs 14 – Sun 17 Nov
Get into the festive spirit at Chartwell’s Festive Fair where you can discover unique gifts from local stallholders like High Weald Dairy and Mercedes Oakley Glass, plus “meet the maker” events in the shop. Don’t miss Chartwell’s shop for Churchill-themed souvenirs – every purchase supports the National Trust!
Folkestone Harbour Festive Market, Fri 15 Nov – Tues 24 Dec
This popular festive marketplace is back and bringing the Christmas cheer every weekend leading up to Christmas Eve! You can expect an even more magical experience with beautifully decorated huts brimming with locally handmade gifts, artisan foods, unique crafts, and one-of-a-kind treasures for everyone on your list. Plus there’s free family films to watch on the Big Screen, live music performances and lots of special events. Open Fridays, 4-8pm. Saturday and Sundays plus Mon 23 Dec at 11am – 6pm. Christmas Eve closes at 4pm. Entry is free, so bring family and friends to share in the joy and magic!
Speldhurst Winter Market, Speldhurst Village Hall, Sat 16 Nov
Visit the gorgeous village of Speldhurst for their Winter Market, nice and early on Sat 16 Nov from 2-5pm. Taking place at Speldhurst Village Hall, admission is free for this family-friendly event. Rascals will serving their top notch pizzas plus mulled wine and hot cider. There’ll be a festive trail for the kids to enjoy, a craft table, incredible raffle prizes and many lovey stalls to do a spot of shopping.
Tenterden Christmas Market, Market Square, Fri 22 – Sun 24 Nov
Head to Tenterden Market on the High Street for beautiful locally-made gifts, festive tunes, and a chance to get all your Christmas shopping sorted! Coinciding with the Christmas Tree Lights switch-on, it’s all happening in Market Square. Don’t forget to meet Santa and receive your gift at Tenterden Recreation on Sat 23 and Sun 24 Nov. Book your time slot in advance to avoid queues.
Christmas Artisan Fair, Chiddingstone Castle, Sat 23 Nov
Head to Chiddingstone Castle’s Christmas Fair on Sat 23 Nov from 10am – 4pm, for a unique seasonal shopping experience. With over 50 artisan and vintage stalls both inside the castle and in a heated marquee, you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts, decorations, and festive treats. Enjoy mulled wine, mince pies, coffee, and lunch options as you browse in this historic, beautifully decorated setting. Book tickets online for £7.50 adults/£4 kids until Fri 22 Nov (on the day, £9.50 adults/£6 kids). Parking included!
Tonbridge Christmas Village, Sun 24 Nov – Mon 23 Dec
Experience the festive charm of Tonbridge Christmas Village at Tonbridge Castle! Enjoy delicious treats at the alpine food & drink court, from bratwurst and burgers to churros and marshmallow toasting stations. Wander market stalls with unique, locally-made gifts. Alpine Food & Drink Court is open Sun 24 – Sun 29 Dec, Mon-Fri, 3-8pm and Sat-Sun, 10am – 9pm. The Market Stalls are open Sun 24 Nov – Sun 15 Dec, Thurs – Sun, 3-8pm and open daily between Mon 16 – Mon 23 Dec, 3-pm and Sat-Sun, 10am – 8pm. Free entry!
Rochester Christmas Market, Fri 29 Nov – Sun 15 Dec
Kick off your Christmas shopping at the Rochester Christmas Market – where entry is free! Held in the beautiful Rochester Castle gardens over three weekends, this festive favourite offers over 100 stalls with gifts, crafts, and treats, plus a Bavarian food village, live music, a children’s funfair, and more. This year you can expect extended hours and even a “Quiet Shopping Time” every Friday from 10am to 12noon. A perfect start to the season!
Mereworth Wines Christmas Market, Sat 30 Nov – Sun 15 Dec
Join Mereworth Wines FIRST EVER Christmas Market! Running on these selected weekends; Sat 30 Nov – Sun 1 Dec, Sat 7 – Sun 8 Dec and Sat 14 – Sun 15 Dec from 11am to 4pm. Explore a delightful array of craft and gift stalls, enjoy live music, mulled wine, and tasty food, all with free entry and parking.
Christmas Market, The Alex, Sat 30 Nov, Sat 7 & Sat 21 Dec
The Alexander Centre’s popular indoor Christmas Market offers a wonderful mix of local gifts, artisan crafts, and festive food from area traders. Browse jewellery, fashion, beauty items, artwork, and more – perfect for last-minute shopping or treating yourself! Warm up in the tea room with luxury hot chocolate or mulled wine. Free entry, 10am–3pm.
Christmas Makers Market, Brenchley, Sun 1 Dec
With everything from home accessories, fashion and jewellery to ceramics, stationery, prints and textiles, there is plenty for everyone at The Ceramic Studio’s Christmas Market. Enjoy live music and complimentary festive refreshments whilst kicking off your Christmas shopping! Come and support local businesses between 10am – 4pm.
Festive Market at Eat’n’Mess, Turvins Farm Dairy, Sat 7 & Sat 14 Dec
Eat’n’mess will soon turn into a Festive Market so stop by and explore the winter wonderland of local delights; indulge in treats and seasonal sweets from the onsite café and bakery, Jonomade Gin Distillery will be bringing their delicious micro-batch gins, gift sets and festive spirits, browse the personalised cards, decorations and floral creations from Kitty’s, beautifully crafted wooden gifts from Love of Wood, candles, diffusers, bath and body sets from Wild Planet Aromatherapy and you definitely won’t want to miss The Happy Grazing Company with their cheeses, chutneys and crackers for the ultimate festive feast. Plus many more guest traders bringing one-of-a-kind gifts and goodies! Free parking and no ticket required. Open 10am – 4pm.
Yuletide Market, Yalding High St, Sat 7 Dec
Yalding High Street will be alive with street entertainers, delicious food, the Farmers’ Market and a variety of stalls, to create the perfect festive atmosphere. Taking place 5-8pm, grab your friends, your family and get in the festive spirit at this fantastic and well-established annual event.
Christmas at The Castle, Whitstable Castle, Sat 7 – Sun 8 Dec
Experience the festive magic at Whitstable Castle’s two-day Christmas Fair, featuring gift stalls, holly wreaths, live music, and Santa’s Grotto (booking is essential). Enjoy mulled wine, mince pies, and treats from the Orangery Tearooms. Open 10am – 4pm.
Christmas World at Dreamland, Margate, Sat 14 – Mon 23 Dec
Get into the festive spirit at Dreamland Margate’s Christmas World, open from 11am to 6pm on select days til Mon 23 Dec. Enjoy free entry, specially selected rides, family-friendly performances, a magical Santa’s grotto, indoor snowball fights, and much more. Join in for festive fun, delicious treats, and winter market stalls.
The Old Shop at The Plough, Trottiscliffe, Tues 24 Dec
Step back in time for one night only! This Christmas Eve, The Plough will be bringing back the 1800s, The Old Shop was once the heart of the village and The Plough was where the locals bought sweets, bread and milk. So from 12pm, they’ll be hosting a food market on their heated terrace, where you can enjoy festive treats like chipolatas wrapped in bacon and goose cranberry & sage bonbons (£10pp). Or stop by after carols and midnight mass at the Church and sip on draft beers or mulled wine, and relive childhood memories at their nostalgic sweet counter from 6pm.
CAROLS
Carols, Canterbury Cathedral, Mon 25 Nov – Fri 20 Dec
Canterbury Cathedral is buzzing with festive cheer this Christmas! Join the world-renowned Cathedral Choir for traditional carol services, or enjoy the new weekly Teatime Carols service filled with stories and songs. This year’s theme is ‘Journeys,’ featuring a living nativity (with a donkey!) at the Festival of Carols, plus a special visit from St Nicholas. Don’t miss the stunning life-size nativity crib, free to visit, Mon to Fri, 3-5pm, from Mon 25 Nov – Fri 20 Dec. On Christmas Day itself, the Archbishop of Canterbury will deliver his Christmas Sermon at the 11am Eucharist service. It is always free to attend a service of worship or to go into Canterbury Cathedral to pray.
Carol Concert, Rochester Cathedral, Fri 6 Dec
Get into the Christmas spirit by joing this Carol Concert at Rochester Cathedral on Fri 6 Dec with delicious mine pies, mulled wine and carol singing alongside a live Christmas choir. Every ticket purchased will go to the KSS Air Ambulance so they can be ready to save lives when every second counts.
Words by Mollie Manning