With the Christmas Lights Switch On filling the town with sparkle, the festive season is now in full swing. From twinkling displays and cosy cafés to unique independent shops bursting with gift ideas, the Bay is the perfect place to shop local and soak up the Christmas magic this December. Whether you’re ticking off your gift list, meeting friends for a winter treat, or heading to one of the Bay’s fabulous festive events, there’s plenty to enjoy by the coast.
Advent Windows in the Bay
Back by popular demand, Buy in the Bay’s Advent Windows trail is now underway, running from 1–24 December. Each day, a new festive window is revealed across town on Buy in the Bay’s Instagram grid, showcasing the creativity and Christmas spirit of our local businesses. Take a wander, discover your favourites, and share them using #AdventWindowsHerneBay - a simple way to support independent shops while enjoying a festive stroll.
Festive Events for All Ages
The Christmas Lights Switch On may have already kicked off the celebrations, but the festive calendar continues. Herne Bay’s shops, eateries, and artisan traders are ready to welcome visitors throughout December, making it the ideal time to support local businesses.
There’s even more reason to visit the town on key festive weekends with FREE parking in William Street Car Park on 7th, 14th (perfect for the Santas on the Run event), and 21st December, giving you extra time to browse, shop and enjoy the Bay.
Santa’s Grotto on the Pier opens on 29th & 30th November, 6th, 7th, 13th & 14th December, offering a magical chance for little ones to meet Santa. Families can explore the festive food stalls and browse the Pier’s artisan retail village for Christmas treats and stocking fillers.
And don’t forget Santas on the Run returns on Sunday 14th December, with 3k, 5k and 10k routes along the seafront in support of Pilgrims Hospices, a brilliantly jolly sight and a beloved Bay Christmas tradition.
Shop, Eat, Gift Local
Herne Bay is a treasure trove for Christmas gifting, from homeware and fashion to toys, books, artisan crafts and beautifully curated vintage finds. With independent boutiques, unique makers, delis, cafés, tearooms and restaurants, the Bay offers something for every taste and budget. When you support a small, independent business you’re doing so much to support and strengthen local communities, supporting people and their creativity and passion.
Small Business Saturday UK (Saturday 6th December)
Don’t forget that Saturday the 6th of December is Small Business Saturday UK, celebrating the nations wonderful small businesses – so here in the bay we will be showcasing our businesses who support the local community everyday – so please get involved and share your go to businesses #SmallBusinessSaturdayUk and tag @BuyintheBayhb.
So this December, wrap up warm, grab your shopping list, and enjoy the festive glow of the Bay. Supporting local has never felt so magical.
