Save The Date: The Best Kent Events Near Kiora

Beyond the tranquil environment of Kiora, there is a vibrant calendar of events happening just a stone's throw away. From world-famous food festivals to atmospheric Dickensian markets, 2026 is shaping up to be an incredible year on the Kent coast. The beauty of staying at Kiora is the balance. You are close enough to the action - often just a short walk or a ten-minute train ride away - to soak up the atmosphere, but you have a luxurious, peaceful sanctuary to retreat to when the day is done.

Grab your 2026 diary. Here is your guide to the unmissable events happening around Whitstable this year. Please note, some exact dates are still to be confirmed.

Spring: Fresh Air & New Beginnings (March – May)

As the days get longer and the first blooms appear on the slopes, the coast wakes up. Spring is all about crisp, invigorating walks and indulging in the best local produce.

Mother’s Day

(15th March)

Whitstable is the ultimate destination for treating Mum. Think bracing walks along the seafront to build up an appetite, followed by an indulgent Sunday roast in one of the town’s fantastic independent restaurants.

Why Book Kiora: We provide the perfect setting for a pampering retreat. Our signature welcome pack - complete with fresh flowers, chilled wine, and Jez’s famous homemade cake - means the spoiling starts the moment you walk through the door.

Whitstable Castle: Bunny Hop Trail & Spring Fair

(3rd-6th April)

The Castle is the hub for seasonal family activities and is just a few minutes walk from Kiora.

Historically, the Castle hosts a "Bunny Hop Trail" on Easter Monday and a seasonal Arts & Crafts Fair. Expect a trail through the landscaped gardens where children can hunt for clues to win a chocolate treat.

Whitstable May Day

(4th May)

This vibrant folk festival features a 7ft "walking bush" parading through the High Street and Harbour, accompanied by Morris dancers, samba bands, and traditional "hooden horses." The festivities culminate at Whitstable Castle with the singing of the May Song, followed by a community fair featuring magic shows, craft stalls, and Punch and Judy, all raising funds for local causes.

The Canterbury Wine Festival

(16th May)

Did you know Kent is fast becoming one of the world's premier regions for sparkling wine? This elegant festival, held in the stunning cathedral city of Canterbury, is a celebration of the region's best vineyards.

Kiora Tip: Forget drawing straws for a designated driver. Canterbury is just a short train ride from Whitstable, meaning you can enjoy the tastings and head back to the seaside in time for sunset.

Summer: Sun, Sea & Celebrations (June – August)

Summer on the Kent coast is undeniable. The sunsets over the estuary are spectacular, the energy is high, and the town comes alive with its biggest celebrations.

Broadstairs Dickens Festival

(12th-14th June)

This festival transforms the coastal town into a Victorian time capsule. Featuring The Grand Parade where locals and visitors in full Victorian costume march through the streets. You will also find free events including Punch and Judy shows on the beach, music performances at the bandstand and a beach party at Viking Bay. The themed markets will be host to artisan stalls and traditional food.

Broadstairs Folk Week

(7th-14th August)

Just a 25 minute train ride down the coast, Broadstairs offers a quintessential, lively seaside festival. For one week, the town is filled with music in the pubs, dancing in the streets, and a fantastic family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a great day trip option if you are staying with us for a longer summer break.

Whitstable Week and Yacht Club

(29th July - 2nd August)

Whitstable Week is the premier event for the Whitstable Yacht Club (WYC), bringing a nautical energy to the town every summer. The club has a packed schedule of regattas and social events that are perfect for guests at Kiora to watch from the garden or enjoy at the water's edge. Expect a 10-race series (two races back-to-back each day) featuring everything from fast catamarans to classic dinghies. The WYC typically hosts evening events throughout the week, including quizzes, live music and a formal prize-giving on the final Sunday.

Autumn: Harvest, Hops & History (September – November)

Autumn is many locals' favourite time of year. The summer crowds have thinned, the light turns golden, and the events turn towards harvest traditions and culture.

The Faversham Hop Festival

(5th-6th September)

For a real taste of Kentish tradition, this is unmissable. Just one stop on the train, the medieval town of Faversham comes alive with a nostalgic, high-energy celebration of brewing history. Expect Morris dancing, live folk and blues music across multiple stages, and plenty of local ale from Britain’s oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame.

Kiora Tip: It’s a fantastic, bustling day out that contrasts perfectly with the quiet calm of an autumn evening back at Kiora.

Whitstable Oyster Festival

(Mid September)

This is the big one. Our hometown’s most famous event celebrates its deep-rooted history with the sea. Expect the traditional "Landing of the Oysters," a vibrant parade by the harbour, live music stages, and endless stalls serving up fresh seafood and fizz. The atmosphere in town is electric.

Kiora Tip: This is invariably our most popular weekend of the year. Staying at Kiora gives you the perfect advantage: you are within easy walking distance of the harbour festivities, but far enough away to escape the noise when you’re ready for a peaceful night’s sleep. We highly recommend securing your dates early for this one.

The Canterbury Festival

(16th-31st October)

This is Kent’s International Arts Festival. Throughout October, the city hosts a sophisticated mix of theatre, classical music, talks, and performances in stunning venues, including the Cathedral.

Why Book Kiora: It’s the ideal base for a cultured autumn break - absorb the city culture by day, and embrace the coastal calm by night.

Winter: Magic, Markets & Cosy Nights (December – February)

The coast takes on a romantic, dramatic quality in winter. It’s the season for wrapping up warm, exploring Christmas markets, and returning to the glow of the fire.

Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival

(Early December)

Step straight onto the front of a Victorian Christmas card. The historic streets of Rochester are filled with costumed characters, carol singers, reindeer, and market stalls celebrating Charles Dickens’ deep connection to the area.

Kiora Tip: It’s a magical day out that will get you firmly in the festive spirit before you return to the warmth of the Kiora wood-burner for the evening.

Canterbury Christmas Market

(Mid-November – December)

For a classic festive experience, head into Canterbury. The city centre and Cathedral grounds are transformed with German-style wooden huts selling unique gifts, mulled wine, and festive treats, all set under twinkling Christmas lights within the historic city walls.

Whitstable Harbour Lantern Lit Parade

(Late November)

The parade starts at the Harbour, winds through Harbour Street, and proceeds down the High Street, stopping at key points to turn on the town's Christmas tree lights one by one. It is incredibly atmospheric, with hundreds of handmade willow lanterns illuminating the dark winter streets. Expect brass bands, local choirs, and a very "village-feel" celebration.

Start Planning Your 2026 Escape

Whether you are looking for the high energy of the Oyster Festival, the cultural depth of autumn arts, or just a quiet weekend away from it all, 2026 on the Kent coast has something for you.

Please note that our peak event weekends - particularly the Oyster Festival in July and the Hop Festival in September - tend to book up many months in advance.

Don't wait until the final dates are announced to secure your sanctuary by the sea. Check our availability calendar now and lock in your perfect 2026 getaway.

Book your 2026 stay now