© David Bartholomew
HEVER FESTIVAL THEATRE
Canterbury Wine Festival , Canterbury // 20 May www . westgatehall . org / canterbury-wine-festival
With our county having firmly staked its place in the world of viticulture , and now often referred to as the Vineyard of England , celebrations are in order and Canterbury Wine Festival offers the opportunity to do just that . Be introduced to over 35 of the region ’ s finest wines , sampling as you go , and enjoy the experience of a masterclass from Master of Wine , Clive Barlow MW , all fittingly set in the heart of Kent .
Hever Festival Theatre , Hever Castle , Edenbridge // 27 May - 30 August www . heverfestival . co . uk
The Festival Theatre are putting together their biggest celebrations yet showcasing 40 fantastic events to mark their 40-year anniversary of summer performances at the beautiful Hever Castle . Priding themselves on being the longest-running open-air theatre in the South East , as well as welcoming companies of extraordinary talent , both long-standing and new , to the festival every year . Enjoy special performances from The Trinity Youth Theatre with Matilda , Dinner Jazz with Heather Hoyle , The Greatest Hits of Motown by How Sweet It Is , The Dolly Show , celebrating well-loved Dolly Parton , and plenty more ready to be experienced . Pack a picnic , stroll the castle gardens and prepare to be amazed .
Raver Tots , Mote Park , Maidstone // 28 May www . ravertots . co . uk
Visit the UK ’ s biggest family friendly rave for a dance party both adults and kids are sure to enjoy . With all ages welcome and the best dance , garage and house hits due to be performed by some of the greatest DJs , you can expect a family event like no other . Make the most of the large dance spaces and engaging activities including inflatables , kids rides , face painting and special appearances from children ’ s favourites Bluey and Hey Duggee . The confirmed acts so far include acclaimed BBC Radio 1 Drum & Bass Show presenter and DJ Charlie Tee and legends Artful Dodger and Brandon Block sure to have you and your little one dancing the day away .
Pride , various locations across Kent www . pride-events . co . uk
A true celebration of love and diversity , Pride is bigger now than ever . With various locations in the county putting on spectacular parades and festivals this summer season to celebrate the LGBTQ + community and all things inclusivity , you can expect a joyful and uplifting gathering with a whole lot of love featuring amazing live performances , creative workshops , talks and more . Be sure to save the dates for your local Pride Festival , including Medway , Canterbury and Folkestone . Visit the website below for more information .
The Kent Food Fest , Sevenoaks // 3 June www . thekentfoodfest . com
Returning for its eighth year is The Kent Food Fest , a festival committed to raising money for leading children ’ s charities boasting a day full of the tastiest festival food alongside new and exciting music , world-renowned Ibiza DJs and an abundance of family fun . From classic gourmet burgers to tantalising Thai and Mexican flavours , paired with tempting sweet treats and hand selected craft beers , wines and cocktails , many made right here in Kent , you can expect a true feast for the senses and a day to be remembered .
Kent Wellness Festival , Detling // 10 - 11 June www . thekentwellnessfestival . com
For a festival with a difference , visit the Kent Wellness Festival and embark on a day full of expert knowledge , mindfulness and self improvement . Bigger and better than ever before , now back for its fourth year , it offers the chance to take part in an array of workshops , practical classes , readings and treatments while embracing all things wellbeing and empowerment . Discover a selection of like-minded businesses and discover a little bit more about yourself , too .
Black Deer Festival , Blackham // 16 - 18 June www . blackdeerfestival . com
An award-winning festival set in Britain ’ s oldest deer park that promises an immersive experience of Americana culture . With a fantastic lineup prepared including Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats , Bonnie Raitt , The Pretenders and Lucinda Williams , you can expect a weekend of true celebration of Americana and country music alongside authentic smokin ’ food and motorcycle showcases at The Roadhouse . With plenty of exciting kids crafts and activities ready to be enjoyed too .
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