Festive Days In Herne Bay

There's something special about Christmas by the sea, and this festive season Herne Bay is ready to sparkle once again. From twinkling lights and creative window displays to independent shopping, cosy cafes and festive family events, there are plenty of reasons to wrap up warm and spend some time in the Bay this Christmas.

Advent Windows in the Bay

Back for another festive season, Buy in the Bay's popular Advent Windows trail will run from the 1st to the 24th of December. Each day, a new Christmas window will be revealed across the town, showcasing the imagination and creativity of Herne Bay's brilliant local businesses. Follow the daily reveals on the Buy in the Bay Instagram grid, then head into town to see the displays for yourself.

Canterbury & Coast App

This year, there's an extra reason to get involved: the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite Advent Window through the new Canterbury & Coast App. So, download the app, explore the trail, choose the display that brings you the most festive cheer and cast your vote. Share your discoveries on social media using #AdventWindowsHerneBay and help celebrate the businesses that make our town so special all year and especially at Christmas.

Festive Fun for All Ages

One of the highlights of the season is the Herne Bay Christmas Lights Switch-On and shopping event, on Sunday 22 November 2026, from 1pm to 6.30pm. Expect a lively afternoon of festive entertainment and Christmas shopping, with local shops, eateries, makers and traders helping to fill the town with seasonal atmosphere. It's the perfect opportunity to begin your Christmas shopping while supporting local.

Santa is returning to his Grotto at The Seaside Museum, William Street, on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd November. This is bookable in advance and will cost £8.50 per adult and per child and includes a gift for children and a fun Santa hat for parents/guardians.

Head to hernebaychristmaslights.co.uk to book your visit.

Herne Bay's award-winning Pier is another seasonal favourite, with The Pier Village, food outlets and festive activities which make it a lovely place to combine a seaside stroll with Christmas shopping and a treat or two. Santa will be making a return this year, giving you yet another opportunity for your little ones to meet the big man himself. You can discover more by visiting their website to keep up to date.

Pilgrims Hospices' much-loved Santas on the Run is back on Sunday 13th December 2026. This festive fundraiser traditionally brings a sea of Santas to Herne Bay's seafront, with 3k, 5k and 10k routes. You will dash your way along Herne Bay's scenic seafront with hundreds of fellow Santas.

Santas on the Run is for everyone, so gather your friends, family and colleagues for the jolliest jog of the year.

Shop, Eat and Gift Local

Herne Bay is full of Christmas inspiration. Browse independent shops for fashion, books, toys, homeware and thoughtful gifts, or hunt for something completely unique among the town's vintage, artisan and creative businesses. Buying locally isn't only a great way to find a present with personality; every purchase helps support the people and businesses at the heart of our community.

When it's time for a break, make a day of it with coffee and cake, a festive lunch or an evening meal in one of Herne Bay's cafes, tearooms, pubs and restaurants. Meet friends, enjoy the lights and soak up the atmosphere before heading back out to finish that Christmas list.

So this Christmas, shop local, eat local and discover a little more of the Bay. Supporting local has never felt so festive!

Follow @buyinthebayhb for updates, and download & discover the Canterbury & Coast app on your app store.