Whether you like to converge on one big stage or hop from one pop-up venue to another, Kent has an amazing range of music festivals lined up for 2026. With big-name acts in rock, pop, ska, soul, folk and beyond, you can enjoy a boutique boogie-fest by the sea or get gloriously lost in music at the park...
Slap on some sun cream, dig out the wellies (just in case!) and check out our updated line-up of the best festivals to grace Kent's stage this year.
Margate Soul Weekender - Margate Seafront
31st July – 2nd August 2026
Margate's signature soul festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026, and it's going to be a very special one. The Margate Soul Weekender brings three days of soul, funk, R&B, reggae and jazz funk to the seafront, including the iconic Lido Sunset Stage and the brand-new Drill Shed Live Arena. The 2026 lineup includes Incognito, Brass Construction, Shaun Escoffery, The Real Thing, Carroll Thompson, Janet Kay, and Children of Zeus. More acts are still to be announced for this milestone celebration. Expect roller skating, a soul vinyl fair, cycle tours and much more besides the music.
Nearest station: Margate
Canterbury Live - St Lawrence Ground, Canterbury
8th–9th August 2026
Brand new for 2026, Canterbury Live brings a major festival experience to the heart of Kent's UNESCO World Heritage city. Set against the stunning backdrop of the St Lawrence Ground, home of Kent Cricket, this August weekender expects to attract over 40,000 music lovers across two days. Two-time BRIT Award winner Becky Hill headlines on Saturday 8th August, while ska legends Madness top the bill on Sunday 9th August. With world-class production, international street food and fully licensed bars, this promises to be a landmark addition to Kent's music calendar.
Nearest station: Canterbury East / Canterbury West
Broadstairs Folk Week - Broadstairs
7th–14th August 2026
Now in its 61st year, Broadstairs Folk Week is as beloved as ever, a true cornerstone of the Kentish summer. For just over one glorious week, the entire town transforms into a living folk festival, with over 400 events spread across 20+ venues, more than 160 of which are completely free. From headline concerts and ceilidhs to workshops, a Craft and Music Fair, and the ever-popular free pub gig programme, there really is something for everyone. Camping is available at the festival campsite, just a 15–20 minute walk from the town centre, with a regular minibus service running throughout the week.
Nearest station: Broadstairs
A New Day Festival - Mount Ephraim Gardens, Faversham
21st–23rd August 2026
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026, A New Day Festival returns to the breathtaking setting of Mount Ephraim Gardens for three days of progressive rock, classic rock, blues and roots music. With two stages running consecutively so you never miss a band, the 2026 lineup includes Focus, Gong, Curved Air, Martin Barre (of Jethro Tull), Martin Turner (ex-Wishbone Ash), Lindisfarne, HENGE and many more. Award-winning ales, ciders, and a superb selection of food stalls complete the picture. Camping and glamping available on site.
Nearest station: Faversham
Outdoor Summer Shows at Dreamland, Margate
Various dates throughout summer 2026
Dreamland's iconic outdoor stage continues to host an extraordinary run of summer concerts across multiple genres. The 2026 series features an outstanding lineup including The Streets (performing A Grand Don't Come for Free in full), Paul Weller, Kesha, The Human League, Bananarama, Flaming Lips, Garbage & Skunk Anansie, Bowling for Soup + Frank Turner, Bastille, David Gray, Tom Grennan and many more. With Southeastern running trains for late-night shows, getting home is easy. Check the Dreamland website for the full schedule.
Nearest station: Margate
Getting to and from the festivals
Southeastern
Getting back home after a busy day or full weekend, the last thing you want to do is drive, so helpfully Southeastern have stations across Kent, including those noted below the festivals in this list! Plus, additional late trains for the likes of the Dreamland concerts mean you can get home easily and safely. Remember - be sure to plan your journey with their app for no additional fees and handy e-tickets.
