Discover the magic of Kent this holiday season, where charming town centre Christmas markets, Castle festive experiences, and festive shopping centre stalls create an enchanting Winter wonderland for all ages. The Garden of England has something to captivate everyone. Don’t miss out on the best shopping experiences with this guide to the top Christmas markets in Kent. Plus, don’t miss our Kent Christmas Lights Switch-On guide, showcasing breathtaking displays lighting up towns across the county with lots more festive stalls for gifts and treats. Looking for the best pantos in Kent? See our Pantomimes In Kent.
For even more seasonal fun, explore our Seasonal What’s On section for more noel fun in Kent.
See Kent, Know Kent
In date order. Last updated 5th December 2024.
Entry to markets is free, though some attractions, like funfairs and Santa’s Grottos, may have extra fees.
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Folkestone Festive Marketplace
Folkestone Harbour
Until 24th December 2024
Friday the 15th sees the start of one of the many Christmas Markets in Kent including the Folkestone Festive Marketplace at Folkestone Harbour. At this annual festive event shop from independent businesses for handmade items, food, crafts and original gift ideas for all the family on sale in the decorated huts. Also enjoy further festivities with free family film screenings, live music and community activities at this Folkestone Christmas event. Market: Friday to Sunday, Friday: 4pm to 8pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am to 6pm, 23rd December: 11am to 6pm and 24th December: 11am to 4pm. Free entry. Read More
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Canterbury Christmas Market
Until 24th December 2024
For those looking for Christmas markets in Kent and family festive fun then head to the Canterbury Christmas Market. Immerse yourself in the festive ambience as you explore the myriad of Christmas-themed stalls. Plenty of attractions and activities in addition to the market, with Santa’s Grotto, Santa Paws, a festive Mini Golf, live music, and VR Experiences. Market: Weekday: 10am to 6pm, Saturday: 9am to 6pm, Sunday: 11am to 4pm, 24th December: 10am to 4pm. Market – free entry. Read More
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The Pantiles Christmas Markets
Tunbridge Wells
Until 24th December 2024
The Pantiles are transformed into a spectacular Winter wonderland, offering an enchanting experience filled with festive cheer. New this year will be wooden chalets hosting a vibrant Christmas market, entertainment and twinkling decorations, and a destination to eat, drink and be merry. 15th November to 22nd December – Thursday to Sunday and 23rd and 24th December from 10am to 7pm. Read More
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Westwood Cross Christmas Market
Broadstairs
Until 24th December 2024
The Christmas Market at Westwood Cross features a delightful selection of gifts, festive foods, and seasonal treats. The retail park, bedecked with shiny baubles, is also home to Santa’s Cottage Grotto. Entry to the market is free. Read More
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PANTOMIME CLASSIC
Pantos in Kent for 2024 includes Aladdin at Tower Theatre in Folkestone. This classic fairytale is filled with magic, laughter, and a touch of genie-us to entertain the whole family. Secure your seats for a family festive fun show – oh yes you will! Book Here
For more pantomime shows in Kent and to learn their history check out our guide to Pantomimes in Kent for lots more.
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Christmas Market
Designer Outlet Ashford
Until 24th December 2024
A new Christmas Market is coming to Kent in 2024, perfect for festive shopping enthusiasts. Visitors can explore seven stalls offering a variety of food and drink delights, as well as unique gift options at the Christmas Market at the Designer Outlet Ashford. Santa’s Lodge returns for another year, and you can also take advantage of the festive selfie spots and decorations for those perfect family shots. 29th November: 8am to 10pm, 30th November: 8 to 9pm. December – Monday to Saturday: 9am to 9pm and Sunday: 11am to 5pm. Free entry. Parking – up to 30 minutes: Free, £2.50 per 4 hours. From 5pm: Free. Blue Badge Holders: Free – need to register to their ANPR database. Read More
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Tonbridge Christmas At The Castle
Tonbridge Castle
Until 23rd December 2024
Indulge in traditional bratwurst, gourmet burgers, and festive treats at the Tonbridge Christmas Village. Explore the alpine food and drinks court and Christmas market with over 20 stalls.
This year see the castle’s Illuminate experience with a new and extended trail for 2024. Market: 24th November to 15th December – Thursday to Sunday: Thursday and Friday: 3pm to 8pm, Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 8pm. 16th December until 23rd December – Daily: Monday to Friday: 3pm to 8pmand Saturday and Sunday: 10am-8pm. Read More
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Christmas Markets @ Reuthe’s
The Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks
21st December 2024
For festive shopping explore the stalls of small, local businesses that offer a wide selection of handmade products perfect for Christmas presents. Enjoy their famous mulled wine at the bar and indulge in seasonal treats from the on-site café for a perfect festive outing. Free entry, from 10am to 2pm. Read More
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Christmas World
Dreamland Margate
20th to 23rd December 2024
Amid the charming vintage amusement park rides, enjoy a festive atmosphere with market stalls offering delicious warm treats, seasonal drinks, and plenty of winter gift ideas. Don’t miss the Magical Festive Grotto for a special holiday experience, see listings here for grotto ticket prices. Both Dreamland and the market are free to enter, open from 11am to 7pm. Read More
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Festive Christmas Market
The Alex, Faversham
21st December 2024
Don’t miss this Kent Christmas event to peruse local traders, craftspeople and artists’ gifts and crafts for seasonal shopping. From 10am to 3pm.
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See Kent, Know Kent This Christmas
Picture Credit: © Main picture Daniil Silantev and Santa figure by William Warby at unsplash.com