Top 3 Ways to Fill Your Summer Holidays in Kent Posted on 5 August 2025 by Violet - Work Experience and Ashleigh Kent-Teach in General Those who live in Kent is a treasure trove of summer experiences, offering everything from rich historical culture to stunning beaches and peaceful countryside. Whether you're exploring vibrant towns or relaxing in nature, there's something for everyone. But as school holidays begin and the heat rises, many families in Kent face the same challenge: how to keep everyone entertained without breaking the bank.If you're searching for free things to do in Kent this summer, or looking for budget-friendly family activities, you're in the right place. This guide is packed with 2025 summer events in Kent, including food festivals, free workshops, and local park adventures—all perfect for making the most of the season without the stress of planning.1) Food and Other Festivals It’s safe to say that one aspect that connects us all is food, weather you’re a “picky eater”, a culinary adventurer or you don’t have the biggest appetite. There are a range of food and drink festivals happening all over Kent this summer with a vast array of foods and delights. What’s more, the fun doesn’t have to be food related. Kent has a wide range of festivals taking place this August with live-music and family friendly activities, or browse the selection of local produce available. 16th August – Family Fun Fest – Betteshanger Park 23rd August – Taste of the Caribbean Food and Drink Festival (free for under 14s) - Great Lines, Gillingham 23rd, 24th and 25th August - We Love Hythe Life Food Festival – Hythe Green 23rd August – 25th August – Sandwich Festival 2025 - Quay Green, Sandwich 23rd and 24th August – bOing! International Family Festival - University of Kent campus, Canterbury 24th August – Paddock Wood Food Festival – Paddock Wood Community Centre Field 27th – 31st August 2025 – Deal Food and Drink Festival – Deal Castle 30th – 31st August – Faversham Hop Festival – Preston Street, Faversham 2) Free Workshops and Events in Kent As we enter the summer months, local areas and businesses are putting on more and more events and workshops to cater for families enjoying their summer holidays. From crafting to dancing, relaxing watching a film or the footy, there are a range of activities that don’t cost a penny – as long as you know where to go. Bluey treasure hunt 2nd August - 31st August Find all seven Bluey posters around the John Lewis store in Bluewater for a prize! Meet Emma Cross – 8th Aug Emma Cross, author of the Beautiful Blend series, will be at Gravesend Library for a meet and greet and book reading. Films at Folkestone Harbour – 8th August – 12th September Enjoy a family favourite in the beautiful British weather. With film titles including: Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging, Napoleon Dynamite, Cruella, The Great Gatsby and more as well as sporting events like the rugby, cricket and grand prix. Whitstable Harbour and Boat Show 2025 – 9th August Celebrating the town's strong maritime heritage and preset connections to the sea, the show offers a range of events and activities. From arts and crafts to swimming and sailing. Beach Hut Day – 10th August – Herne Bay The Herne Bay Beach Hut Association are hosting a ‘best dressed beach hut’ competition and encouraging families to come and see the beatuiful decorations or have a go at come pebble art. Bee Free On The Farm Summer Workshops - 11th , 18th 25th August – Folkestone Harbour Station Join Bee Free on the Farm at Folkstone Harbour for their creative children’s workshops to have a go at some fun nature-inspired craft activities. MCDC Summer Dance workshop – 12th and 19th August – The Goods Yard, Folkestone Join MCDC, the dynamic Folkestone based dance company and their creative hip hop dance session influenced by contemporary approach which will energise you for the day. 3) Local Parks Visiting a local park is a simple yet joyful way for families to spend quality time together. From the moment you step onto the soft grass or winding paths, there's a sense of freedom and adventure. Children can run, climb, and explore nature, while parents relax and soak in the fresh air. Whether it's feeding ducks at the pond, playing on the swings, or sharing a picnic under a shady tree, parks offer a space where laughter flows easily and memories are made. The beauty of a local park lies in its accessibility—no tickets, no schedules, just spontaneous fun and connection with the outdoors. Brockhill Country Park – Hythe Folkestone Three Peaks Challenge – Folkestone Toddler’s Cove – Canterbury Betteshanger Park – Deal Dunorlan Park – Tunbridge Wells Capstone Country Park – Gillingham Lower Leas Costal Park – Folkstone For more ideas on what to do with your children this summer, why not read 10 Sports to Try This Summer. Not sporty? No problem! Find other ways of Keeping Children Engaged in Learning Over the Summer Break: Fun and Educational Activities for Parents.