🎄 Christmas Events in Kent 2026: Best Festive Days Out

Looking for the best Christmas events in Kent in 2026? From magical Christmas light trails and festive markets to meeting Santa, family days out and pantomimes, there are plenty of ways to get into the Christmas spirit across Kent this year.

Whether you're planning a festive day out with the kids, looking for somewhere to browse Christmas markets or fancy an evening wandering beneath twinkling lights, there's something for everyone.

We've rounded up some of the best Christmas events and things to do in Kent this festive season, with options for different ages, interests and budgets. We'll be updating this guide as more events are announced, so keep checking back as Christmas approaches.

✨ Christmas Light Trails

✨ Port Lympne Illuminated

27th November – 2nd January

After a successful first year, Port Lympne Illuminated is back for 2026! This year's animal-themed trail will feature brand-new installations inspired by different species, plus a new zone to explore, a revamped Elf Disco and an exciting grand finale.

There are also plenty of ways to make more of your visit, with options to stay overnight, visit Santa's Grotto or enjoy a festive afternoon tea. A lovely option if you're looking for something a little different to do with the family this Christmas.

Location: Port Lympne Reserve, near Hythe, Kent

Tickets: From around £19 per adult / £10 per child (Santa’s Grotto extra)

Website: Port Lympne Illuminated

✨ Christmas Lights at Leeds Castle

20th November – 03rd January

Leeds Castle is transformed into a magical winter wonderland at Christmas, with an illuminated trail winding through its stunning historic grounds.

Along the way, you'll discover spectacular light displays, including the shimmering Christmas Cathedral, the popular Fire Garden and the futuristic Laser Garden, as well as the Water Fountain Show.

There'll be festive food and drink stalls too, serving everything from warming hot chocolate to seasonal treats. Little ones can also keep an eye out for Father Christmas, making this a lovely festive evening out with the family.

Location: Leeds Castle, near Maidstone

Tickets: From around £19 adult / £14 child

Website: Leeds Castle

✨ Wild Lights at Wingham Wildlife Park

20th November – 03rd January

There's a brand-new Christmas light trail coming to Kent this year! Wild Lights at Wingham Wildlife Park will see the park transformed after dark, with glowing lanterns, animal-themed light displays and sparkling pathways to explore.

As you wander through the trail, you'll find twinkling light canopies and wildlife projections, with plenty to see along the way. The animals will be resting for the evening, but there'll still be lots of festive fun, including hot food, mulled wine and marshmallows to toast around the fire pits.

Location: Wingham Wildlife Park, near Canterbury

Tickets: From around £19 adult / £13 child

Website: Wild Lights at Wingham Wildlife Park

✨ Christmas at Bedgebury

20th November - 31st December

Christmas at Bedgebury returns for 2026, transforming the forest into a magical illuminated trail filled with colour, light and festive sounds.

Wander beneath the towering trees and discover glowing installations, including the Christmas Cathedral and the new Laser Garden. There are festive food and drink stalls along the route, with hot chocolate, winter warmers and marshmallows to enjoy along the way. Keep an eye out for Father Christmas, too!

Location: Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest, Goudhurst

Tickets: From around £19 adult / £13 child

Website: Christmas at Bedgebury

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🎅 Christmas Experiences & Activities

🎅 Kent & East Sussex Railway Santa Specials

29 November – 24 December (selected dates)

A steam train ride at Christmas is always a lovely festive day out, and the Kent & East Sussex Railway's Santa Specials are a great one for families.

You'll travel through the winter countryside in a heritage carriage, with Santa coming to visit every family at their seats and handing out personalised gifts to the children, with a little help from his elves.

Tickets also include a family photograph to take home, festive refreshments, entry to the Winter Wonderland marquee and unlimited rides on the traditional Gallopers at Tenterden Town Station.

Location: Tenterden Town Station, Kent

Tickets: From £115 for a family of 4

Website: Kent & East Sussex Railway

🎅 Christmas at Bewl Water

28th November – 24th December (selected dates)

If you're looking for a Christmas experience with plenty to keep the kids busy, Christmas at Bewl Water is back with an all-new festive quest for 2026!

This is much more than just a visit to Santa. You'll be welcomed by his elves before heading off on a festive adventure filled with interactive shows, storytelling and Christmas activities.

Little ones can decorate their own shortbread biscuits in Rosemary's Bakery, make a sleigh ornament in the Elves' Workshop, create reindeer food to take home and post their Christmas wishes at Dash's Post Office.

The highlight is a private family visit with Santa, who'll know your child's name, age and a little about their hobbies and interests. Every child also receives a gift from the Toy Exchange.

Price: From around £30 per adult / £62 per child

Location: Bewl Water, Lamberhurst, Kent

Website: Christmas at Bewl Water

🎅 Winterland at Bluewater

7th November - 10th January

If you're looking for a festive day out with plenty to keep the family entertained, Winterland at Bluewater is well worth a visit!

Located outside The Village, near Zizzi, Winterland has a whole host of rides, games and attractions to enjoy, including an Observation Wheel where you can take in the views. It's a great option if you fancy combining some Christmas fun with a bit of shopping at Bluewater.

There are plenty of food and drink options too, serving up classic favourites alongside festive treats, plus a fully licensed bar for the grown-ups.

It's worth arriving early so you have plenty of time to enjoy everything on offer, and check the website for Observation Wheel offers when booking online.

Price: £3 entry (rides and attractions priced individually)

Location: Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, Kent

Website: Winterland Bluewater

🎅 Mission Christmas: Bah Humbug!

29th November - 24th December

Mission Christmas has a brand-new adventure for 2026, and this year it's all about helping a rather grumpy elf rediscover the spirit of Christmas!

In Bah Humbug!, you'll head into the Dockyard's secret substation and journey through Elfenezer's past, present and future, taking on festive challenges and searching for the magic keys to unlock the Golden Ledger before Christmas is ruined.

It's a 45-minute interactive experience, with a private meeting with Father Christmas at the end, a gift for each child and a professional photograph to remember your visit. A lovely one for families looking for a bit of festive magic!

Price: From £25 per child / £17.50 per adult

Location: The Historic Dockyard Chatham, Chatham, Kent

Website: The Historic Dockyard Chatham

🎅 Wallace & Gromit – A Cracking Christmas Caper at Leeds Castle

21st November 2026 – 3rd January

There's something a little different happening at Leeds Castle this Christmas, as Wallace & Gromit arrive with a festive mystery to solve!

The famous Leeds Castle Diamond has mysteriously disappeared, and Wallace, Gromit and their Anti-Theft-O Security team need your help to find it. You'll follow the investigation through the castle's historic rooms and corridors, searching for clues and spotting some familiar faces from Wallace & Gromit's adventures, including Feathers McGraw, Preston and Shaun the Sheep.

It's a fun family adventure, with live performers at weekends and during school holidays, plus photo opportunities and surprises along the way.

Even better, it's included with your daytime admission ticket, so you can enjoy the Christmas displays at the castle too.

Price: Included with Leeds Castle admission

Location: Leeds Castle, near Maidstone, Kent

Website: Leeds Castle

🎅 The Elf Express at Quex

5th -24th December (selected dates)

If you're looking for a magical Christmas experience in East Kent, The Elf Express at Quex Adventure Farm Park is packed with festive fun for all the family!

Hop aboard the tractor ride through the Magical Elf Woods and Elf Kingdom, meet the cheeky elves and say hello to the real reindeer before enjoying a personal visit with Santa. There's plenty more to explore too, including Candy Cane Lane, Santa's Toy Shop and lots of festive treats, with hot drinks and a German BBQ to keep you warm.

There are also some extra activities to make your visit even more special, including ice skating, a Highland Cows Christmas Experience, Reindeer Experience, Santa Paws and even goat walking!

With thousands of Christmas lights, festive performances and plenty of activities, there's lots to keep everyone entertained.

Price: From £14.95 per adult / £29.95 per child

Location: Quex Adventure Farm Park, Birchington, Thanet, Kent

Website: Quex Adventure Farm Park

🎅 Christmas at Betteshanger Park

5th - 24th December (selected dates)

Betteshanger Country Park has two lovely Christmas experiences to enjoy this December, perfect for a festive family outing.

You can follow the Christmas Trail through the park, solving clues and discovering festive surprises along the way. It's perfect for little explorers and costs £13 per child, which includes entry for two accompanying adults.

Or, if you'd prefer a traditional Christmas experience, you can book a visit to Father Christmas in his cosy grotto, where every child gets the chance to meet him. Tickets are £10 per child and also include entry for two adults.

Both are a lovely way to enjoy a bit of Christmas magic with the family!

Location: Betteshanger Park, Deal, Kent

Website: Betteshanger Park

🎅 Icescape Tunbridge Wells

26th November – 3rd January

The ice rink is returning to Calverley Grounds this winter, bringing a little festive magic to the heart of Tunbridge Wells with Icescape Tunbridge Wells.

Enjoy 45-minute real ice-skating sessions surrounded by twinkling lights, with sessions for families, friends and skaters of all ages. There will also be festive food and drink to enjoy before or after your skate, and keep an eye out for Pippen the Penguin, the rink's much-loved mascot!

There are plenty of different sessions to choose from, including parent and toddler sessions, quieter sessions with half capacity and no music, and adults-only disco evenings.

Entry to Calverley Grounds is free if you just want to soak up the festive atmosphere and watch the skating. Sessions can sell out, so it's worth booking ahead to secure your spot!

Price: From £15 per adult / £10 per child

Location: Calverley Grounds, Tunbridge Wells

Website: Icescape Tunbridge Wells

🎅 Borgyn & Bakes Christmas Afternoon

From 6th November

Borgyn & Bakes in Westgate-on-Sea is bringing a little wizarding magic to Christmas with its Harry Potter-inspired festive afternoon tea, and this year's menu has now been released!

Expect a delicious festive feast featuring chicken drumsticks, roast potatoes with dipping gravy and mince pies, alongside enchanted cupcakes and sweet treats inspired by Honeydukes sweet shop.

The café will be transformed into a twinkling festive wonderland, with magical decorations and a cosy Hogwarts feel. You can also browse a selection of official Harry Potter merchandise, making it a lovely place to pick up a few unusual Christmas gifts.

The festive feast launches on 6th November, but get in quick as dates are already selling out fast!

Price: From £29.95 per adult / £15.99 per child

Location: Borgyn & Bakes, Westgate on Sea

Website: Borgyn & Bakes

🎅 Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway Santa Specials

28th November – 24th December

All aboard for a magical Christmas journey! The popular Santa Specials are returning to the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, where families can enjoy a festive steam train ride from New Romney to Hythe and back before meeting Father Christmas in his grotto.

There's plenty more included in the experience, with Santa's elves, a magician to entertain you while you wait, seasonal refreshments and an age-appropriate gift for every child. You can also visit the Model Railway Exhibition at New Romney before your journey, and enjoy a snowy arrival back at the station.

A lovely traditional Christmas experience for little ones!

Price: From £30 per person (under-ones travel free without a gift or £15 with a gift)

Location: New Romney Station, New Romney

Website: Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway

🎅 A Truly Magical Christmas – Rare Breeds Centre

28th November – 23rd December

The Rare Breeds Centre in Woodchurch is getting ready for a magical Christmas on the farm, with a festive experience for families and little ones.

Follow an enchanting winter wonderland walkway, where you'll be greeted by a cheerful elf before reaching the beautifully decorated Cattle Barn. Here you can enjoy a heart-warming Christmas show featuring Father Christmas and his elves, along with a festive craft activity. Every child will also receive a special gift from Santa.

There's more to explore around the farm, including the decorated Children's Barn, twinkling lights and plenty of festive photo opportunities. You can also stop at the Granary Restaurant for homemade Christmas-themed cakes and winter drinks.

There are even special SEN-friendly sessions available, with fewer visitors and a quieter atmosphere for families who would prefer a more relaxed experience.

Price: See website for ticket prices

Location: Rare Breeds Centre, Woodchurch, Ashford

Website: Rare Breeds Centre – A Truly Magical Christmas

🎅 A Nutcracker’s Christmas at Hever Castle

20th November 2026 – 2nd January (closed on selected dates)

Hever Castle is getting a magical Christmas makeover for 2026, with A Nutcracker’s Christmas bringing the much-loved festive story to life across the castle and grounds.

During the daytime, you can explore Drosselmeier’s workshop, meet familiar characters and wander through colourful displays inspired by the Land of Sweets, before heading inside the castle to see its traditional Christmas decorations. There are also fairground rides, play areas, a maze and plenty to explore, with the option to book a visit to Father Christmas for little ones.

If you visit later in the day, things get even more magical! From 4pm, the castle, gardens and lake are transformed by festive illuminations, with colourful lights, music and interactive displays throughout the grounds. It's a lovely way to experience Hever Castle after dark, so wrap up warm and don't forget your wellies!

Price: From around £17.85 per adult / £13 per child (Father Christmas extra)

Location: Hever Castle, Edenbridge, Kent

Website: Hever Castle

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🎁 Christmas Markets

🎁 Canterbury Christmas Market

12th November – 24th December

Canterbury Christmas Market is back for 2026, bringing plenty of festive magic to the heart of the historic city. This year there's an exciting new extended section in the beautiful Canterbury Cathedral Precincts, joining the established market areas at Whitefriars and St George's.

With more than 120 traditional wooden huts and 172 stallholders across 137 pitches, it's one of the largest Christmas markets in the South East and the biggest in Kent.

Browse the festive stalls for unique gifts, handmade decorations and Christmas treats, grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine and enjoy seasonal music and live performances. There will also be special events for all ages, including Santa's Grotto, with Santa arriving on 28th November on selected dates.

Location: Whitefriars Shopping Centre & Canterbury Cathedral Precincts

Website: Canterbury Christmas Market

🎁 Rochester Christmas Market

27th November – 13th December

Set against the spectacular backdrop of Rochester Castle's 11th-century Norman keep, Rochester Christmas Market returns for three festive weekends at the end of November and beginning of December.

With more than 120 stalls, it's Kent's largest free-to-enter public Christmas market and a great place to get into the festive spirit. Browse an array of independent traders selling locally produced gifts, artisan food, distinctive clothing, homeware and plenty of unusual Christmas presents you won't find on the High Street.

There's lots more to enjoy too, including delicious festive food and drink (think Christmas dinner wraps, freshly made doughnuts, mulled wine and hot chocolate), a funfair with rides for all ages and live festive entertainment on the bandstand. All set within the beautiful historic surroundings of Rochester.

Location: Rochester Castle Gardens, Rochester

Website: Rochester Christmas Market

🎁 Folkestone Harbour Arm Festive Marketplace

13th November – 24th December

Folkestone Harbour Arm is transforming into a festive oasis by the sea this Christmas, with six weeks of celebrations and a Festive Marketplace packed with independent stalls, delicious food and drink and plenty of seasonal entertainment.

More than 50 traditional fisherman-style huts will line the Harbour Arm, selling everything from handmade jewellery and unique gifts to quirky finds. There'll also be street food stalls serving festive flavours, alongside family entertainment and community events.

The celebrations kick off on Friday 13th November with the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On, with the lights being switched on at 7pm. Other highlights include the Folkestone Christmas Tractor Run on 19th December and a special screening of The Muppet Christmas Carol on Christmas Eve at midday.

Location: Folkestone Harbour Arm

Website: Folkestone Harbour Arm

Tonbridge Christmas Fest

27th November – 13th December

Tonbridge Castle is getting a festive makeover this Christmas as Tonbridge Christmas Fest returns for three weekends of festive fun.

Explore the Market Village, packed with handcrafted gifts, Christmas decorations and homemade bakes, before heading to the Food Village for something delicious. There'll also be Candy Cane Lane, a Christmas Tree Parade and Santa's Post Office.

There's plenty for families too, with the chance to visit Father Christmas in his Christmas Cabin, plus children's shows, workshops and character meet-and-greets, including The Christmasaurus and Lunch with the Grinch. Adults haven't been forgotten either, with evening entertainment, tribute nights and Drag Bingo in the Christmas Lounge.

Price: Free general entry. Charges apply for selected attractions and events

Location: Tonbridge Castle, Tonbridge

Website: Tonbridge Christmas Fest

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🎭 Pantos & Festive Shows

🎭 The All New Adventures of Peter Pan – The Marlowe Theatre

27th November – 10th January

The Marlowe is back with another fabulous festive show! This year’s cast features Sarah Hadland (Miranda, Strictly Come Dancing, Horrible Histories), Phil Gallagher (Mister Maker), and Marlowe favourite Ben Roddy.

This magical family extravaganza promises an unforgettable mix of laughter, music, and festive fun. Expect dazzling costumes, lavish sets, toe-tapping tunes, and plenty of jokes that will have audiences of all ages in stitches — a true Christmas tradition for Kent families!

Location: The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

Tickets: From £19

Website: The Marlowe Theatre

🎭 Cinderella – The Central Theatre

11th December to 3rd January

The legendary Central Theatre pantomime is back, and this year it's the turn of the much-loved fairy tale Cinderella!

Starring TV soap favourite Zaraah Abrahams as the Wicked Stepmother and CBBC's So Awkward star Ellie Clayton as Cinderella, there's a fantastic cast lined up. They'll be joined by comedy duo Luke & Elliott as the Ugly Stepsisters, Alex Anstey as the Fairy Godmother and Andrew Curphey as Buttons.

Expect a magical festive treat packed with breathtaking special effects, toe-tapping live music, hilarious comedy and plenty of traditional panto fun for all the family.

Location: The Central Theatre, Chatham

Tickets: From £20

Website: Central Theatre – Cinderella

🎭 Cinderalla – Assembly Hall Theatre

12 December - 31st December

Cinderella is coming to Tunbridge Wells this Christmas in a lavish, larger-than-life pantomime from the multi award-winning Little Wolf Entertainment.

With her ugly stepsisters standing in the way of her dreams, Cinders will need a little help from her best friend Buttons and some magic from her Fairy Godmother to get from the pantry to the palace before midnight!

Expect sparkling sets, fabulous costumes, side-splitting slapstick and not one but two outrageous dames. It's a classic festive favourite packed with magic, music and plenty of laughs for all the family.

Key InformationPrice: From £20 per child / £30 per adult

Location: Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells

Website: Assembly Hall Theatre – Cinderella

🎭 The Wizard of Oz – The Woodville Theatre

4th December – 2th January

This Christmas, follow the Yellow Brick Road to The Woodville for a magical family pantomime packed with festive fun!

Starring EastEnders favourite Dean Gaffney as the mysterious Wizard of Oz, alongside Gravesend panto favourite Rob Cummings, who celebrates 10 years of pantomime magic as Glinda the Good.

They'll be joined by Jezo as Scarecrow, Byron Witchell as Tin Man, Georgia Rowland-Elliott as Lioness and local star Christina Akinyelu as Dorothy.

Expect spectacular special effects, dazzling costumes, chart-topping songs, laugh-out-loud comedy and plenty of audience participation in this traditional British pantomime. A great festive treat for all the family!

Tickets: From £21.50

Location: The WoodvilleTheatre, Gravesend

Website: The Woodville Theatre

🎭 Goldilocks and the Three Bears – The Malthouse Theatre

9th December – 3rd January

The greatest show in Pantoland is coming to Canterbury this Christmas as Goldilocks and the Three Bears arrives for a spectacular circus-themed pantomime!

The Malthouse will be transformed into a magical big top extravaganza, with Joseph Gardner Hodges returning for his sixth year as the fabulous Ringmaster Fanny.

From the award-winning creative team behind previous productions including Sleeping Beauty, Peter Pan and Beauty and the Beast, expect a fantastic family show packed with a West End cast, spectacular costumes, jaw-dropping special effects and plenty of laugh-out-loud comedy.

Price: From £10 per person. Family tickets from £72.

Location: The Malthouse Theatre, Canterbury

Website: The Malthouse Theatre

🎭 Jack and the Beanstalk, The Granville Theatre

12th December – 24th December

The Granville Theatre is bringing another giant festive adventure to Ramsgate this Christmas with its production of Jack and the Beanstalk!

Following the success of previous pantomimes Peter Pan and A

Deladdin, this year's show promises a magical family adventure. Join Jack on a laugh-out-loud journey up the beanstalk as he faces a fearsome giant and discovers that heroes sometimes start with just a handful of magic beans.

Expect spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, toe-tapping songs and plenty of side-splitting comedy in this festive treat for all the family.

Price: From £26.95 per person

Location: The Granville Theatre, Ramsgate

Website: The Granville Theatre – Jack and the Beanstalk

🎭 Mini Panto – The Christmas Cavity Calamity

5–6 and 12–13 December, then daily from 18–23 December 2026

There's a new festive experience for families at Penshurst Place this Christmas! The Christmas Mini Panto: The Christmas Cavity Calamity will see the Garden Room transformed into a magical North Pole setting, before taking you into a candyland world complete with a giant gingerbread house.

The 25-minute panto is designed to bring a little festive magic for younger visitors, and the experience also includes a meeting with Father Christmas.

There are other festive events happening at Penshurst Place too, including late-night Christmas shopping, Christmas wreath-making and book-folding workshops, plus a special performance of A Christmas Carol in December.

Tickets: £9.50 per person (adults and children)

Location: Penshurst Place

Website: Penshurst Place

Elf The Musical – Trinity Theatre

11th December – 27th December

If smiling's your favourite, don't miss Elf The Musical at Trinity Theatre this Christmas! Following last year's Nativity! The Musical, Trinity Theatre Productions is bringing another much-loved Christmas story to the stage.

Join Buddy, a human who accidentally ends up in Santa's sack as a baby and is raised by elves at the North Pole. When he discovers he's actually human, he heads to New York to find his birth father, spreading plenty of festive chaos along the way!

Packed with catchy songs, dazzling choreography and laugh-out-loud comedy, this feel-good musical features colourful costumes, local performers, magical moments and even an audience snowball fight. A lovely festive treat for the whole family!

Price: £26.50–£33.50 per person

Location: Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells

Website: Trinity Theatre – Elf The Musical