ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
THE ARTS HOTLIST 2024
BLUE REEF FESTIVAL
BLACK DEER FESTIVAL
KENT ’ S FESTIVALS
27 . JAM on the Marsh , Romney Marsh 4 - 14 July An acclaimed multi-arts festival set in the medieval churches of Romney Marsh . This year ’ s highlights include the Changeling Theatre with productions of Noel Coward ’ s Present Laughter and Shakespeare ’ s Henry V , performances from the London Mozart Players and a captivating exhibition of photography , pen and ink drawings , and oil paintings from John Ballard . jamconcert . org jamonthemarsh _ uk
28 . Concrete Canvas , Maidstone 18 August A family-friendly festival combining unique street art and skateboarding . The festival will feature live art displays , exotic animals , a pop-up market and live music alongside an equipped open skate zone suitable for the whole family . lockmeadowentertainment . co . uk
29 . Deal Music and Arts Festival , Deal 4 - 14 July Deal Music & Arts has brought the best in the arts to East Kent for over 40 years . Welcoming great musicians , fine actors and distinguished writers to Deal , Walmer , Sandwich and Dover , this year ’ s summer extravaganza , French Connections , promises an exciting lineup spanning classical music , live bands , theatre , film , poetry and literature , and family-orientated arts activities . dealmusicandarts . com deal _ music _ arts
32 . Leeds Castle Concert , nr Maidstone 13 July A highlight of the summer season . Set in a magnificent location complete with a natural amphitheatre , in front of the beautiful Leeds Castle , crowds have gathered in their thousands for this stunning occasion for over 40 years . Enjoy open-air classical music from the world famous Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and many other spectacular performers , as well as a breathtaking Spitfire flyover and mesmerising fireworks finale . leedscastleconcert . co . uk leedscastleconcert
33 . Stour Music Festival , Boughton Aluph 21 - 30 June A popular music festival entering its 61st year set in the beautiful medieval All Saints Church in Boughton Aluph . 10 concerts will feature across two consecutive weekends and this year ’ s highlights include flamenco dancers , a fireworks show and masterworks from esteemed choirs . stourmusic . org . uk stour _ music
34 . Chickenstock Music Festival , Stockbury 1 - 4 August A boutique music festival that welcomes music lovers of all ages . With brilliant headline acts that include both local and international artists alongside intriguing workshops and on-site camping . Family and dog friendly . chickenstockfestival . co . uk chickenstockfestivaluk
30 . Jazz At The Barn 2024 , Woolton Farm , Bekesbourne 22 - 23 June 2023 ’ s inaugural festival was such a success that it is back with even more on offer for 2024 ! Set to welcome some of Kent ’ s best jazz musicians , visitors can enjoy freshly made pizza , BBQ food and award-winning sweet treats from the Beardy Baker , while taking part in garden games with a bouncy castle and face painting for the kids . Camping , glamping and motorhome pitches available with tickets available for prebooked discounts and on the door . wooltonfarm . co . uk wooltonfarm
31 . Black Deer Festival , Eridge Park , nr Tunbridge Wells 14 - 16 June A true celebration of Americana , country music and culture . Join live cooking demonstrations , soak up the unique atmosphere and taste smokin ’ eats . blackdeerfestival . com blackdeerfest
35 . Blue Reef Festival , Maidstone 26 - 27 July Set to be Blue Reef ’ s biggest year yet , enjoy an impressive array of talent , culture , food and art , set amongst the orchards of Loddington Farm . Live music will feature across four stages from both established and new talents , arts and craft stalls will display unique treasures and there will be plenty of tempting dishes from attending vendors to tuck into . bluereeffestival . co . uk blue _ reef _ festival
36 . ASHFOOD !, Elwick Place , Ashford 29 - 30 June Returning for its second year , Elwick Place ’ s ASHFOOD ! celebrates local food , drink , musicians and more . The lineup of local talent is set to impress with performances from Liv2Dance , Towers School Performing Arts and band , The Rec . Children ’ s crafts will also be available on both days and foodies can delight in the brilliant array of stalls at this free familyfriendly event including Greek street food , loaded cookies , expert cocktails , wine from The Wine Garden of England and more ! ashfood . co . uk ashfoodfest / elwickplace
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