Kent, known as the “Garden of England,” is a county rich in heritage and vibrant traditions. In 2025, it continues to honour its past while embracing the present through a series of events that bring together local communities and visitors from afar. From centuries-old festivals to contemporary arts, here’s how Kent celebrates its history, culture, and community spirit through five unmissable events in Kent 2025.
Faversham Hop Festival: A Legacy of Brewing and Togetherness
Rooted in Kent’s proud brewing heritage, the Faversham Hop Festival dates back to the region’s heyday as the heart of the British hop-growing industry. This annual celebration pays homage to the workers who once harvested hops and the brewers who made Kent famous for its ales. Today, the festival brings together the local community and visitors for two days of music, dancing, and revelry. Traditional Morris dancers, a staple of English folk culture, perform alongside contemporary bands, while local pubs and outdoor stages echo with live music. The streets are lined with stalls showcasing artisan goods, food, and, of course, plenty of Kentish beer.
- When: Saturday, 30 August – Sunday, 31 August
- Where: Faversham
- Entry: Free, no booking required
Folkestone Triennial: Bridging the Past and Present Through Art
Folkestone’s history as a seaside town with a rich maritime heritage serves as the backdrop for the Folkestone Triennial, a contemporary outdoor art exhibition that transforms the town into a living museum. The event delves into Folkestone’s geological and geographical history, reaching back to the Stone Age. Each artwork reflects the community’s connection to its landscape, celebrating how the region’s history has shaped its present. The Triennial also fosters local pride by involving residents and businesses in hosting and engaging with the exhibits, creating a festival that’s as much about community as it is about art.
- When: Saturday, 19 July – Sunday, 19 October
- Where: Various locations across Folkestone
- Entry: Free, no booking required
Kent County Show: A Tribute to Rural Life and Farming Heritage
For more than 90 years, the Kent County Show has been a cornerstone of the county’s summer calendar. Hosted by the Kent County Agricultural Society, the event celebrates the agricultural traditions that have defined Kent’s identity for centuries. From livestock shows and vintage farm machinery to displays of crafts and produce, the show reflects the enduring importance of farming to the community. Beyond agriculture, the event brings together families and local businesses for a weekend of entertainment, showcasing Kent’s modern identity while honouring its rural roots.
- When: Friday, 4 July – Sunday, 6 July
- Where: Kent Event Centre, Detling, near Maidstone
- Entry: Tickets available online
Manston International Airshow – Best Events in Kent 2025
Manston Airport – relive history as this amazing event in Kent, returns in 2025 with the Manston International Air show. The event commemorates its legacy as a base for both military and civilian aviation, drawing on its rich historical significance before the site undergoes a major transformation. The air show unites aviation enthusiasts, families, and locals in a celebration of engineering and flight. Vintage aircraft displays will pay tribute to Kent’s role in Britain’s aviation history, while modern aerobatic performances ensure a thrilling spectacle for all ages.
- When: Saturday, 16 August – Sunday, 17 August
- Where: Manston International Airport, near Ramsgate
- Entry: Ticket details to be announced
Sweeps Festival: Preserving Folklore and Tradition
The Sweeps Festival in Rochester is steeped in folklore, tracing its origins to the May Day celebrations of chimney sweeps in the 18th century. At a time when sweeps were often children, the festival marked their one day of freedom each year. This historical tradition has evolved into a lively event that honours the town’s heritage while bringing joy to thousands. Featuring Morris dancing, live folk music, and vibrant street performances, the festival connects the community to its past while fostering a spirit of togetherness. Local businesses and pop-up vendors join in, making it a celebration of both culture and commerce.
- When: Saturday, 3 May – Monday, 5 May
- Where: Rochester town centre
- Entry: Free, no booking required
History in the making!
These upcoming events in Kent for 2025 are more than just dates on a calendar; they are living reflections of Kent’s rich tapestry of history, art, and tradition. They bring people together, weaving local communities with visitors in shared celebrations that honour the past and embrace the future. Whether you’re marvelling at Folkestone’s modern art or raising a pint at Faversham’s Hop Festival, these gatherings embody the spirit of Kent – a county that treasures its heritage and thrives on community.
