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Kent’s biggest music and cultural festivals in summer 2023
MUSIC FESTIVALS IN KENT
Rochester Castle Concerts
6–9 July
Picture it – a warm July evening, views of the fairy-tale 12th century Rochester Castle and a soundtrack of live music for the perfect summer night out. While, as of writing, the full line-up is still under wraps, early artist announcements include Soft Cell + Peter Hook & The Light, and Nile Rogers & CHIC. Now who else is inspired to listen to Tainted Love on repeat?
Pub in the Park, Tunbridge Wells
7–9 July
Tunbridge Wells is on the list of the nine spots being toured this summer by Andi Oliver, Si King and Matt Tebbutt. Head to Dunorlan Park to feast on the UK’s biggest celebration of food and music where you’ll get to enjoy live cooking demos, food from the likes of two Michelin-starred The Hand and Flowers, tapas experts, Brindisa and local seafood favourites, Sankeys, and (if you’re belly’s not too full) have a boogie to some live music. So there you have it, all you need is a ticket, a napkin, and your weekend is sorted!
Leeds Castle Concert
8 July
For one night only Leeds Castle will be transformed into one of Kent’s most famous music venues, with people travelling far and wide to hear the world-class Royal Philharmonic Orchestra play in a world-class setting. Of course there’ll be music, but what makes this concert truly special is all those added extras, with a Spitfire flyover, historical canons and that oh-so famous fireworks display. Pack up your picnic, dust off your dancing shoes and get ready, because these tickets go quick!
Tonbridge Music Weekend
7-9 July
Get ready for fun and music at Tonbridge Castle as some of the best tribute acts take you back! Sing along to your favourite Queen and Stevie Wonder numbers and Abba and Bollywood anthems, dance into the night at the disco, and soak up the beauty of the Tonbridge Castle grounds.
Rock the Mote, Maidstone
5-6 August
36 acts, three stages and two days of entertainment – Rock the Mote returns to Mote Park this year with an action-packed line-up of 90s rock, 00s pop and heavy rock tributes, plus a street food festival, and even a campsite so you can keep the party going all weekend. With tribute acts including Stereophonics, Iron Maiden, The Who, Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande, it’s safe to say this is one not-to-be-missed celebration.
Margate Soul Festival
4-6 August
A soul festival by the sea in one of Kent’s coolest coastal towns, sounds pretty good, right? Carnival street parties, live shows and an eclectic mix of nightlife all help make this festival one of the best summer events in Kent this year. Trust us, this one sells out quickly, so make sure you don’t miss out on seeing some of the biggest names in British soul and plenty of international live acts.
Faversham Hop Festival
2-3 September
This two-day local favourite is all about Kent’s hop-growing heritage with a swinging celebration through the streets of historic Faversham. In amongst the four stages which promise the chance to listen to live performances from no less than 70 bands(!), there’ll be plenty of beer to be supped, with local brewer Shepherd Neame serving up some of their most iconic brews.
ARTS AND CULTURE FESTIVALS
These fab festivals are the perfect chance to get together and celebrate Kent’s rich and vibrant culture.
Pride Canterbury 2023
10–11 June
This year’s Pride Canterbury is bigger than ever before! For the first time this spectacular event will go across the whole weekend, with two days of celebrating LGBTQ+ identity. 35,000 people will flock to the city to celebrate Pride Canterbury’s 50th anniversary, with a parade through the High Street, followed by live entertainment in Dane John Gardens. While the 2023 artists are still to be announced, you can guarantee chart-topping performances, DJs, and some of Kent’s best talent.
Medway Gaming Festival
1-2 July
The Historic Dockyard Chatham is transforming into a gamer’s paradise this summer as the Gaming Festival returns for the third year running. As this year is set to be bigger and better than ever before, we cannot wait to find out what will be in store, as previous years have seen modern and retro games on offer to play, competitive matches, VR and even cosplay on the agenda.
Canterbury Medieval Pageant
1 July
It’s time to become a medieval pilgrim for the day! Fanfares at the ready as Canterbury welcomes a colourful parade featuring historical characters, knights on horseback, medieval royalty, warriors, pilgrims, musicians and giants. Then it’s time to join the pilgrimage and head off on a special journey around medieval Canterbury at this exciting family event.
Deal Music and Arts Show
7–16 July
There’s something irresistible about the combination of summer, the seaside and wonderful music in the air. The Deal Music and Arts Festival is a unique celebration of all three – great classical and contemporary music from some of the world’s finest music-makers, as well as theatre, opera, cinema and dance in the beautiful and historic surroundings of Deal and Dover.
Hever Castle Supercar Sunday
6 August
Petrolheads, this is the one for you! A whole host of supercars will be on display at the castle, including 60 Lamborghinis to celebrate their 60th birthday. In amongst the tire kicking, there’ll also be the chance to try out one of the simulators for an incredible driving experience, plus opportunities to find out about the latest in environmental cars. Psst…word on the road is there will even be a very rare and special super car that’s set to impress.
Hop on the train with Southeastern
As so many of Kent’s top festivals and celebrations are within walking distance of a station, why not let the train take the strain this summer? With GroupSave, Kids for a Quid and Weekender tickets on offer, it’s the perfect excuse to save the pennies and even enjoy some of Kent’s best local tipples.
