Welcome to your guide to the Herne Bay Festival 2025. We will be updating this blog throughout the summer with further events and fun activities, so save for later!
Every year, Herne Bay transforms into a festival seaside town and this year The Herne Bay Festival is running from Sunday 20th July to Sunday 17th August, so whether you’re heading to the Bay for one of the music events, looking for free family fun or simply soaking up the summer vibes along the coast, we’ve rounded up a guide to what’s on in Herne Bay.
Getting here is easy. Hop on a South Eastern train and take advantage of their summer offer of ‘Kids for a Quid’, with every valid adult ticket you can take up to 4 children between 5-15 years old for just £1 each, or you could plan a longer trip and stay at one of the Airbnb’s or hotels across the Canterbury district.
Take a look at the range of accommodation available across Canterbury district here if you need ideas for places to stay.
For the festival you can choose from fabulous day time events, activities, art trails, tours and exhibitions to night time concerts and other brilliant events at venues across Herne Bay. There really is something for the entire family!
Stay up to date with what our businesses in the Bay are offering as part of the festival by following us on Facebook and Instagram for daily inspiration throughout the summer.
Herne Bay Folk Festival 25th -27th July
On Friday 25th to Sunday 27th July it is the return of Herne Bay Folk Festival, now in its third year, building on its success, is back with another amazing line up of folk artists performing in fabulous venues across the Bay including Old Garage Bar, Bay Unite, The Rose, Bar 85, The Prince of Wales, She Rose, Divers Arms, CACAO and Herne Bay’s Ex Servicemen’s club.
Sandcastle Competition Fun
For the little ones, the Sandcastle Competition is back and will take place opposite Cain’s Amusements on Wednesday the 30th July and Wednesday 6th August. Bring your children down to show off their talents.
Herne Bay Carnival & Fireworks Saturday 9th August
The festival organisers are delighted that the Herne Bay Carnival is back again this year and will take place along the seafront on Saturday 9th August which is set to be a fabulous day with a parade and activities throughout the day - and don’t forget the fireworks on the seafront in the evening which are not to be missed. Here’s everything you need to know for carnival day:
Herne Bay Jazz & Swing Festival by the Sea 15th-17th August
One of the highlights of the Herne Bay Festival month is always the Jazz and Swing Festival which starts on the 15th August and runs until the 17th August and organised by Kai Hoffman, who once again has lined up an unforgettable weekend with awesome musicians.
Get ready for three unforgettable days as the Herne Bay Jazz and Swing Festival brings New Orleans energy to the Kent Coast. From Thursday 15th to Sunday 17th in venues across the Bay, including The Pier Ceylon, Briggsy’s, The Ship Inn, Beach Creative, the King’s Hall, the New Four Fathoms, M.I.M.S., The Grapevine, The Firkin Frog and The Pier Stage.
With artists including The Jive Aces, globally renowned for their high energy showmanship and the UK’s No.1 Jive and swing band. Roberto Pla, widely regarded as the godfather of Latin music in the UK- a celebration of Latin Jazz excellence.
There are so many amazing artists, you could consider staying and attending more than one of the events over the three days, with many of them free to attend. Plan your weekend now by visiting the website
Head to Herne Bay Festival’s website and download the full event guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing this summer.
