Explore Kent’s Festive Markets – What’s On This Christmas 2026
Looking for Christmas markets in Kent? From festive food and drink stalls to seasonal shopping, Santa experiences and Christmas entertainment, Kent is home to a fantastic selection of festive events throughout the holiday season.
Planning ahead for Christmas 2026?
It’s still early, and many Christmas markets across Kent have yet to confirm their 2026 dates and details. We are updating this page as announcements are made, so save this page and check back regularly for the latest Christmas market listings, festive events and seasonal inspiration.
Whether you’re searching for traditional Christmas markets, artisan gift fairs, festive food experiences or family-friendly seasonal events, we’ll be adding the latest confirmed Christmas markets from across Kent as they are announced.
🎄Christmas Markets in Kent 2026
Hever Christmas Fair – Hever
Held within the grounds of Hever Castle, this festive shopping event offers gifts, decorations, homeware and seasonal treats in a historic setting.
- Date: 6 November 2026
- Location: Hever Castle
- Stalls: Gifts, textiles, decorations and Christmas shopping
- Admission: Entry fee applies and includes access to the grounds
- Best For: Early Christmas shopping and festive gifts
Canterbury Christmas Market – Canterbury
Set across Whitefriars and the Cathedral Precincts, this traditional market features wooden chalets, festive food, and seasonal entertainment.
- Dates: 13 November – 24 December 2026
- Location: St Georges Street, Rose Lane, Whitefriars and in the precincts of Canterbury Cathedral
- Market Type: Gifts, festive food and drink, entertainment, and a festive family trail
- Admission: Free entry
- Christmas Lights Switch-on: 13 November 2026
Folkestone Festive Marketplace – Folkestone
Set around Folkestone Harbour, this festive marketplace features independent traders, seasonal food and drink, entertainment and Christmas lights in a unique coastal setting.
- Dates: 13 November – 24 December 2026
- Location: Folkestone Harbour Arm and Goods Yard
- Market Type: Independent makers, gifts, festive food and entertainment
- Admission: Free entry
- Christmas Lights Switch-on: 13 November 2026
- Opening: Weekends from mid-November, then daily from 21 – 24 December
Visit Folkestone Harbour Arm’s Website
Chartwell Christmas Market – Westerham
Set under a marquee on the Chartwell grounds, this festive shopping event offers homemade gifts and locally produced food and drink.
- Dates: 19 – 22 November 2026
- Location: Chartwell
- Stalls: Handmade arts & crafts, homewares, accessories, local food and drink
- Admission: Free entry but usual car parking fees apply to non-members (house is closed during the Christmas market)
- Best For: Early Christmas shopping and festive gifts
Festive Gift & Food Show – Detling
Visit the biggest ever Kent Festive Gift & Food Show, with more than 250 stalls set across two large indoor shopping halls and an extensive outside shopping area featuring Christmas Cabins.
- Dates: 20 – 22 November 2026
- Location: Kent Showground
- Stalls: Over 250 stall holders offering gifts, artisan food, accessories, homeware and seasonal food and drink
- Entertainment: Live music, meet reindeer and festive photo opportunities
- Admission: £12 (free parking)
Visit Kent Showground’s Website
Tonbridge Christmas Market – Tonbridge
Held within the grounds of Tonbridge Castle, this festive marketplace features artisan gifts, live entertainment and seasonal treats.
- Dates: 27 – 29 November, 3 – 6 & 10 – 13 December 2026
- Location: Tonbridge Castle
- Stalls: Handcrafted gifts, seasonal decorations, homemade bakes and seasonal food and drink
- Entertainment: Children’s shows and workshops, Christmas Lounge, meet Father Christmas
- Admission: Free entry
Rochester Christmas Market – Rochester
One of Kent’s biggest festive events, Rochester Christmas Market returns to Rochester Castle Gardens with more than 120 stalls, festive food and drink, live entertainment and a family funfair.
- Dates: 27 November – 13 December 2026 (weekends only)
- Location: Rochester Castle Gardens
- Stalls: Over 120 traders offering gifts, artisan food, homeware and festive products
- Entertainment: Live music, Bavarian Village and family funfair
- Admission: Free entry
- Dickensian Christmas Festival: Takes place 5 – 6 December 2026
Faversham Christmas Market – Faversham
Set in Faversham’s medieval market place, this festive shopping event features independent market traders, festive music and seasonal food and drink.
- Dates: 11 – 13 December 2026
- Location: Market Place
- Stalls: Gifts, decorations, accessories, seasonal food and drink
- Entertainment: Festive music and entertainment
- Admission: Free entry
Visit Faversham Market’s Website
✨ Things to do in Kent this Christmas with Explore Kent
Christmas markets are just one way to enjoy the festive season in Kent – but there is so much more to discover. Whether you are planning a weekend adventure, a family day out, or a peaceful winter walk, Explore Kent is your go-to guide for getting outdoors and making memories this winter.
From frosty woodland trails to dog-friendly days out, we have handpicked the best seasonal experiences to help you stay active and inspired – even when the temperature drops.