Milkshake: Live!
August 17, 12.30pm and 3.30pm, Granville Theatre Ramsgate
Join your favourite Milkshake! friends on Holiday with Dora, Pip and Posey, Blue from Blues Clues and You!, Milo, Milkshake! Monkey plus two of your Milkshake! presenters for an all-new adventure!
Tickets from £19.25 plus booking fee Book now
Special offer for The Isle of Thanet News readers £10 Tickets at:
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/milkshake-live-on-holiday/granville-theatre/calendar/?pc=SHAKE10
Santus Circus
Now until August 11, Lord of the Manor
A French family run circus that has toured the UK for over 30 years and been in the circus industry for over 6 generations with their famous Juggling and Unicycling acts.
Tickets from £10.
Book at: https://www.santuscircus.com/book-now
Benson’s M&L Pleasure Fair
Open 2nd – 11th August, daily 1pm-9pm, Palm Bay
Having been brought up with a strong sense of standards and ethics, instilled by his family’s history of operating Bensons Fun Fairs, Mark Benson began Benson’s M&L Pleasure Fairs with his wife Lillian, operating to the same exacting high standards and continuing the Bensons heritage in the name of Benson’s M&L Pleasure Fairs.
Half price day 7 August – everything half price
1 token = £1.20 / 10 tokens = £10
£1 entry fee, children under 3 go free
Summer Running
Thanet children who love to run are welcome to attend East Kent Coaching’s running sessions throughout the summer holiday. There are morning and evening groups for both primary and secondary school-aged children and all venues are traffic-free.
The morning groups run on grass and trails in local parks – King George VI Memorial Park in Ramsgate (Tuesdays) and Hartsdown Park in Margate (Thursdays). Wednesday evenings are at the Royal Harbour Academy’s all-weather running track in Ramsgate.
Anyone going into school year 4 or upwards will find a suitable challenge, regardless of experience and how fast or slow they think they are! All sessions last one hour and the cost is £5 (morning) and £7 (evening) per child.
You’ll find details of how to book and pay at www.eastkentcoaching.com, where you can also complete the required parental consent form.
East Kent Coaching’s next Quex Park Cross Country races, for school years 3 to 6, are scheduled for Saturday 5th October. Entry forms will be in primary schools shortly after term begins. Anyone whose children are home-schooled can contact [email protected] to receive a personal invitation to take part.
Grotta Workshops
Every Tuesday throughout August… make your own pilgrim shell at the Shell Grotto and add it to this unique community artwork
10am – 12pm
Every Tuesday 6th – 27th August
In memory of the lost art of building Grottas – when children built ornamental grottos in the streets to mark St. James’s day – the Shell Grotto are inviting visitors to contribute to their very own Grotta.
You’ll recieve a free Grotto pin badge, just for taking part!
And the favourites will be posted each week on social media.
Tickets free (with entry to The Shell Grotto)
Ramsgate Week
August 11-16, Ramsgate harbour, hosted by Royal Temple Yacht Club.
Visitors are welcome to come and absorb the views from Royal Temple Yacht Club and take a break from all the action or wander around the harbour admiring the vessels.
Ramsgate week is often referred to as a friendly alternative to Cowes week which is one of the longest running regular regattas in the world that takes place on the Solent near the Isle of Wight.
Competitors from France, Holland, Belgium and the UK will be taking part.
Look out for afternoon and evening music performances from Two’s Company, Vertigo Park, The Hudson Band and more
Royal Temple Yacht Club was founded in 1857 by a group of yachtsmen sailing from the Temple Steps on the river Thames. The first Ramsgate Week regatta was launched in 1898.
Ramsgate Day
August 10, 10am to 5pm throughout the town
Handmade market, pottery, St George’s Church yard sale, Nordic Walking, raven treasure hunt, live music, children’s workshops.
Cookery demo at 12:30pm Ramsgate Tandoori by Raushan Ara
Free children circus skills workshop from 11am by This Bean Spins
Taster Ramsgate Nordic Walking from 1pm
Picnic In The Garden
Join the Windmill Community Gardens on August 15 at their community gardens for a series of community picnics under the Orchard or nestled among the Forest Garden. The event runs from 11am – 4pm.
Bring your picnic, craft project or book and enjoy some peaceful time among nature.
There is no need to book, for this free community picnic.
There will be Tea, Coffee, and Homemade Cakes available too purchase.
The Bison & The Butterfly: Storytime and Creative Activity with author Alice Hemming
Meet the author, and enjoy some creative activity and storytelling at Happy Reading Children’s Bookshop in Broadstairs on August 16.
Session 1: 10.30 – 11am
Session 2: 11.30 – 12 noon
Meet children’s author Alice Hemming for a fun storytime & creative activity, celebrating her new picture book The Bison and The Butterfly… Ages 3+
This heartwarming story follows Bison, who feels sad and lonely due to her size and clumsiness. Wise Woodpecker reassures her that everyone likes different things, and soon Bison finds friends who love her for her shaggy appearance. The book, with enchanting illustrations, celebrates differences and teaches children about the harmony of ecosystems and the power of rewilding.
Inspired by the Kent Wildlife Trust’s Wilder Blean Bison Project, it includes a section on the science of rewilding and emphasises the value of every individual in both nature and community.
Everyone who buys a copy of The Bison and the Butterfly from a participating bookshop throughout the summer will be entered into the competition to win a Wilder Blean Safari Trip and be in with a chance of seeing a real-life bison!
Tickets £5, available in-store or here
Ticket price includes a copy of the book (usually £9.99), available to pick up on the following day, signed by Alice at the end of the session – additional copies and copies of Alice’s other books will also be on sale.
Children will sit on cushions and will be provided with equipment including washable crafting items, colouring pencils/crayons depending on their age and ability. There are a couple of seats for adults who wish to attend; otherwise adults can stand and watch from the main shop area, or enjoy refreshments downstairs in STAPLE. Book now
Magic Hours Cinema Walk: Margate
August 18th –
Come and explore Margate’s cinema history! Re-visiting the town’s love for the sights, sounds and sensations of film from the 1890s to today. 10.30am – 11.30am (1 hour)
Meeting point: Corner Fort Road / Mansion Street
Join Palace Cinema for walks to explore and celebrate cinemas, from converted sheds to glorious picture palaces, and from buildings still standing to those of which all flickering traces are long gone. Taking in some local personalities and social history along the way, plus lots of archive images, we’ll re-visit each town’s love for the sights, sounds and sensations of film from the 1890s to today.
Check Palace Cinema for Ramsgate and Broadstairs walks too.
Routes – Cinema Walks are in the centre of each town: Broadstairs is smaller and flatter but Ramsgate and Margate include hillier streets. Please contact the Palace in advance to check if the route is suitable for you / your group. Free places are offered to carers accompanying those with a disability.
Health & Safety – By agreeing to participate in a Cinema Walk, all customers are agreeing to listen to safety instructions and exercise due care and attention whilst walking.
Bad weather – Cinema Walks do not offer any protection from the weather. In the event of weather bad enough – eg heavy rain, gale force winds – to prevent a Walk taking place, participants will be given the choice of an alternative date or a full refund.
Tickets £8 Adult, £7 Concession, £4 Under-15, Free – Carer accompanying disabled participant Book now
Holiday Activities and Food Programme
The programme, which runs until 23 August, includes a wide range of fun events designed for families and young people between 5 and 16. From messy play, crafts and music, to sports, smoothie bikes, and nutritional cooking sessions – there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Activities are taking place at Kent Family Hubs, as well as Kent Libraries, and Country Parks throughout the summer holidays – so you can take part in the Summer Reading Challenge at your local library as well as outdoor learning activities such as nature trails, pond dipping and den building at your nearest country park.
To find out what’s happening in your area, check the local activity timetable here – https://www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/kent-family-hub/activities-and-groups-near-you/activities-in-family-hubs
Broadstairs Fireworks
July 31st, The Nylon Tigers will be performing at the Bandstand, 8pm, fireworks at 9.45pm.
While the bands perform, food and drink will also be available to buy from the Bandstand café.
The following dates are scheduled for the end of August. Wednesday 21st will see The Dial taking to Bandstand stage, and finally the 28th will feature the very popular Ozzie and the Uglies to close out the firework season.
All events are free entry to the public for everyone to enjoy and are put on by the volunteers who take time every year to organise the events. Sponsors include Thorley Taverns, Morelli’s, Harvey Waste Management as well as a grant from the town council.
To donate for future events, you can do so here, donations are also welcome on site.
For more information, visit: https://www.broadstairsfireworks.co.uk/
Summer Theatre in the Park
Broadstairs & St. Peter’s Town Council is bringing back Summer Theatre in The Park at Pierremont Hall from July 31 until August 30.
The event aims to offer free entertainment to the community for both families and friends. Every Wednesday from 2pm, there will be a different performance targeted towards families – one event in August will be held on Tuesday 13th instead of the Wednesday.
Every Friday at 8pm there will be an array of different performances each week targeted towards adults.
All of these performances are free, thanks to funding and organising by Broadstairs & St. Peter’s Town Council.
The shows will be held at Pierremont Hall in Broadstairs and will be outside, with limited seating. Performances will be brought inside if there is bad weather, with limited spaces.
The performances are by Applause Rural Touring.
The aim for the events is to be as plastic-free as possible and to promote well- being in the community, for all ages. There’ll be a licensed bar on-site and guests are welcome to bring their own picnic.
FAMILY PROGRAMME
Arcade Mini – 31st July 2pm – 5pm
Emoto-Matic – 7th August at 2pm and 3:30pm
Puppet Petting Farm 13th August 2pm – 5pm
Ugly bugs Wingding 28th August 2pm & 4pm
Library at the Edge of the World – 21st August 2pm and 3:30pm
ADULT PROGRAMME
Friday’s at 8 pm
Southern Nights – 2nd August
If We Just Keep Going – 9th August
366 Days of Kindness – 16th August
But I Haven’t Finished Yet – 23rd August
The Improvised Shakespeare Show – 30th August
Full details can be found at: https://pierremonthall.co.uk/summer- theatre/
Summer Family Trade fair
August 16, 10am to 2pm, Millmead Children’s Centre
Crafts, food and service stalls, Big Red Soft Play Bus for children 7 years and below
Charity family fun day
August 3, noon to 4pm, The New Inn, Minster
In aid of cancer charities in memory of Paul Cornwell
Games, fun, live music, barbecue, bouncy castle, stalls, raffle and more
Scripture Union holiday club at Minnis Bay
Variety of sessions for all ages plus choir and cafe
Find programme and register at https://taplink.cc/suminnisbay
Thanet Games
A week-long series of family fun days across the district, culminating in a spectacular closing ceremony on Friday 23 August.
Games event dates:
- Monday 19 August – Newington Park, Ramsgate
- Tuesday 20 August – St. Peters Recreation Ground, Broadstairs
- Wednesday 21 August – Dane Park, Margate
- Thursday 22 August – Westgate Recreation Ground, Westgate
- Friday 23 August – Thanet Games Closing Ceremony at Royal Harbour Academy, (Upper School), Ramsgate
You can sign up to take part here. Events and activities are still being added, so you may also want to follow the Thanet Community Safety Partnership on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date
Ramsgate Costumed Walks
Ramsgate’s history is brought to life with four tours with a dedicated band of volunteers.
The Ramsgate Costumed Walks group is run by enthusiastic volunteers who head the walks, whatever the weather, so long as members of the public turn up.
There is no charge for the walks although a donation of £2 towards the cost of costumes and printing of leaflets is suggested.
Guided tours take place in several areas across the town:
West Cliff Walk (Meet: West Cliff Lift) – This walk is of particular interest for its architecture, which includes The Grange & St. Augustine’s Church, designed by Augustus Pugin. His most famous work is the inside of the Palace of Westminster in London. You may be able to meet him personally.
Characters: Mary Townley, Wilkie Collins, Augustus Pugin, King George IV
Dates August 6 at 2.30pm
Royal Harbour Walk (Meet: Maritime Museum at Pier Yard) – Ramsgate is proud to boast the only Royal Harbour in the British Isles, the honour having been bestowed by King George IV in 1821. You will see Smeaton’s famous dry dock, learn of the vast fishing industry carried on in Ramsgate in the 19th centuries & hear of the miraculous evacuation of British troops from Dunkirk in 1940.
Characters: Jane Austen, Thirza Whitmore, Elizabeth Fry, the Dippers
Dates: August 27 at 2.30pm
Town Centre Walk (Meet: Halifax Bank) – Guides will greet & take you through the centre of the town to see & enjoy the wide variety of buildings, ranging from Regency to the Twentieth Century. Your tour ends in the magnificent Parish Church of St. George.
Characters: Princess Victoria, Sir William Curtis, Mary Townley, Dame Janet Stancomb-Wills
Dates: August 20 at 2.30pm
East Cliff Walk (Meet: Albion Gardens) – On this walk you will pass many splendid Regency & Victorian buildings, including Wellington Crescent built immediately after the Napoleonic Wars during which Ramsgate had been a garrison town.
Characters: Princess Victoria, Baroness Lehzen, Frith, Dame Janet Stancomb-Wills, Ernest Shackleton
Dates: July 30 at 7pm and August 13 at 2.30pm
Find Ramsgate Costumed Walks on facebook here
St Peter’s Village Tour
The St Peter’s Village Tour is an independent group of volunteers with a constitution formed to offer four free award winning guided walks around the historic village and churchyard of St Peter’s, Broadstairs in Kent. The Tours are arranged by a team of over 100 volunteers.
The flagship award winning Village Tour is 30 years old this year. Join a tour and meet many costumed characters from past centuries along with some surprises along the way! During the tour you will see the flint built church and find out a little more about its long history.
The tour is conducted in 5 groups of 8 visitors in each, setting off at 5 minute intervals and covers less than a mile of flat walking, but does involve standing for a number of 5 minute presentations. It includes a break for tea or coffee (although no break on evening tours, or inclement weather tours). You are advised to allow two and a half hours for your tour. In very inclement weather we provide a dramatic presentation inside the church.
Access for visitors with disabilities. Children are very welcome on the tour, suggested minimum age of 10 years to fully appreciate the experience. At the end of the tour you are invited to contribute towards costs which average £5 per adult. After the tour light lunches can be made available in the Red Lion, opposite the Church, by calling Kim on 01843 600895. Refreshments on the tour are optional at a cost of £1.
Tours take place on Thursday (plus two Saturday dates in September) various times, book at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/st-peters-village-tour-18247297178
Ramsgate Blitz Walks
Relive the dark days of the war in the heaviest bombed seaside town in the country
Every Friday 7pm – 9pm
Walk starts from Ramsgate Library… lasts approximately 2 hours.
No need to book. Dogs and children welcome. Approx two hours easy walking.
Free with donations welcome
Dreamland
From now until September 1, Dreamland will open every day welcoming visitors with rides, roller coasters, roller skating and street food with free park entry for all. For 2024, alongside the UK’s oldest wooden roller coaster, the Scenic Railway, and the lofty Big Wheel, visitors can enjoy a classic line up including the Chair-O-Plane, Whirl-A-Round, Waltzers, Carousel, Rock N Roller Coaster and many more. Rides are operated on a pay per ride basis, with ride token bundles available.
Families and friends can enjoy the delights of the retro Roller Disco, the popular Arcade and amusements, plus tuck into delicious street food such as fried chicken and Mac n Cheese, burgers and fish and chips. There will also be free family film screenings daily alongside selected sporting events like the Olympics and Paralympics.
There is also a series of headlining concerts in the outdoor setting of the Scenic Stage.
Opening times and more information can be found at dreamland.co.uk
Broadstairs Folk Week
August 9-16
A hugely popular annual festival by the sea during August around the town of Broadstairs
There are around 400 events crammed into one week – including workshops for all abilities in music and song, parade, full programme of dances and ceilidhs, Poets’ Breakfast and Craft and Music Fair
The ever-popular official free pub gig programme takes place in pubs around the town.
Headline concerts in 2024 feature Oysterband, Le Vent du Nord, Daphne’s Flight, Kathryn Tickell & the Darkening, Jim Moray, Tim Edey, Jim Causley, Richard Digance, Banter, the Monster Ceilidh Band, Alden Patterson, Jez Lowe, Hill Top Ceilidh Band, Bird in the Belly, Tarren, Harmonia, A J Clarke, Zulu Tradition, Brown Boots Boogie Band, Teilhard Frost, Tin Giants, Wychbury, Bonfire Radicals, Good Habits, Amy Hollinrake Trio.
There’s Family Ceilidhs a Techno Ceilidh, a Gentle Ceilidh and let’s not forget Banter’s famous Fancy Dress ceilidh – this year’s theme is Sci-Fi. If you want to try some moves out, there’s workshops in country dance, Bollywood, European, Belly dance, solo clog, medieval, Lindy Hop and a special callers’ session for children.
You do not need a partner, just go along and have fun. The experienced callers will make it easy and literally point you in the right direction.
The Sarah Thorne Theatre is once again the heart of dance at this year’s Folk Week. It’s a lovely venue with outdoor seating and a small bar, run by the amazing volunteers. Pop in and have a drink, recharge your batteries away from the busy high street, open throughout the day and into the evening.
There are also 2 special Silent Ceilidhs – one for adults at the Pavilion on the Sands and a Young Folk ceilidh at Retort House. You can’t have more fun in headphones!
At the bandstand, the free Hobby Horse Club attracts hundreds of families who participate in games, singing and dancing with Clarence the Dragon and the festival mascots, the Hooden Horses.
Details/bookings at https://broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk/shop/
Broadstairs History Walks
These fun, free, hour long gentle strolls, are led by local guides who love their town
Meet at the history walk banner along the prom, near Royal Albion at 2pm every Saturday and Sunday from now until August 31.
Stroll around the beautiful beach, harbour, and promenade of Broadstairs and be taken through 600 years of history. Pirates, smugglers, heroes, soldiers and bathing belles.
See where Dickens lived, how Broadstairs dealt with Napoleon, the mystery of the haunted cafe & the terror of the Goodwin sands. And much more…
60 – 90 minutes & 300m radius. Easy walking, little traffic
Please check on the Broadstairs History Walks Facebook page to confirm that the walk is on, as they are fine weather walks only.
Groups of more than 10 please contact [email protected]
Free – Suggested donation of £5 per person
Punch & Judy
Broadstairs Viking Bay (Centre Staircase)
July 31st, August 3,4,7,15,16,21,22 and 28th
Showtimes: 11am / 12 noon / 1pm
Performances, free, courtesy of Broadstairs and St Peter’s Town Council
Seashore Safaris
Explore Thanet’s chalk rocky shore for its fascinating rockpool wildlife. Join one of the series of safaris touring different Thanet Coast bays to explore the chalk reef and rockpools to see what shore life can find. These events are run with the help of Thanet Coast volunteers.
All events last for up to 2 hours and are suitable for all the family, but particularly 4-11s. Children must always be accompanied by a responsible adult. Suggested donation of £2.50 per person.
Wed 7 Aug, 8.30am – Western Undercliff, Ramsgate (CT11 9PH)
Thur 8 Aug, 8.30am – Botany Bay, Broadstairs (CT10 3LG)
Fri 9 Aug, 9am – Stone Bay, Broadstairs (CT10 1DU)
Sat 10 Aug, 9am – Walpole Bay, Margate (CT9 3HF)
Sun 18 Aug, 5.30pm – Walpole Bay, Margate (CT9 3HF) Evening Safari
Thu 22 Aug, 8am – Eastcliff, Ramsgate (CT11 8ED)
Fri 23 Aug, 9am. – Dumpton Gap, Broadstairs (CT10 1TA)
From Sea to Sky’ by artist NKTaylor
Pie Factory, Margate, 8th August to 12th August
Embark on a colourful journey this summer at the ‘From Sea to Sky’ exhibition by local artist Nicola Taylor. Showcasing a diverse collection of original paintings that encapsulate the spirit of the Thanet coastline, presenting dynamic depictions of shorelines, captivating skies, and familiar landmarks, all characterised by a vivid array of shapes and hues.
A variety of prints, framed artworks, and homewares will be available for purchase. www.nktaylor.com
Young Minds Wellness Day
August 14, noon to 3pm, at Ellington Park
Mental health volunteer groups, information, advice and games
Margate Carnival
Margate Carnival will take place on Sunday 4th August starting from Palm Bay at 2.30pm travelling along the Esplanade past Bugsy’s Bowling, The Lido, The Winter Gardens and onto Fort Hill, past Margate Police Station and through The Piazza and Margate Soul Festival, towards the train station and onto the Royal Esplanade, Westbrook..
Margate Pride
August 10
12pm -1.30pm: * Margate Pride Parade starts at Walpole Bay Lawns, before making its way across Margate, and finishing at Dreamland’s Scenic Stage.
1.30pm – 4.30pm (Dreamland): Speakers & Stalls: plus DJs and live music.
Youth Pride: Margate’s first-ever Pride event created by and for 13-19 year olds in the Hall By The Sea. Youth Pride will include shows, crafting, a parent/carer creche plus more from the Be You Project and other local LGBTQIA+ spaces and resources.
No.42 by GuestHouse, Margate, is hosting a Pride Party on the Rooftop Bar on August 10 between 1pm and 4pm. Guests will be joined by Drag Queen, Just May, the self-titled ‘World’s Premier Geri Halliwell Impersonator’ for an afternoon of fun, sun, laughs, tunes, cocktails and games. Tickets are £28 each and will include a fabulous Pride-inspired cocktail . Book at https://www.guesthousehotels.co.uk/offer/no-42-margate-pride-rooftop-party/
Free Entry to Dreamland during the day
Monster Slam
August 11, Quex Park
Monsterslam, the car-crushing, caravan-smashing extravaganza is back, opens 9.30am
Witness the giant-wheeled legends in action as Big Pete, The Grim Reaper, and the incredible Swamp Thing enter the arena, showcasing why they’re the absolute best in the business! Prepare to be awestruck by their jaw-dropping power and heart-pounding performances!
The UK’s number one motorcycle display team, the Bolddog Lings team base their show around the world’s largest and most sophisticated mobile landing system – expect jumps, backflips and more up to 35ft in the air!
Stannage Stunt Team perform stunts such as Motorbike Jumps, Fire Runs, High Falls, the dangerously amazing Flaming High Dive, Quad Stunts, the Exploding Coffin and much more! Be warned – some of the explosions might make you jump!
Experience the adrenaline rush of riding in the back of a real monster truck, with their gigantic wheels and awe-inspiring power! Buckle up for a unique adventure! (Please note: Height restrictions apply, and this is an optional, chargeable activity.)
Enjoy a day packed with family-friendly fun, including fairground rides for all ages, giant inflatables that will have you bouncing with excitement, face painting and cute, cuddlies and creepy crawlies to fascinate and delight! Indulge in a wide array of freshly cooked street food, delicious ice creams, and refreshing drinks from a well-priced licensed bar!
Fairground rides, inflatables, and face painting are optional, chargeable extras. Free parking.
Children aged 2 and under can join for free, while children aged 3-5 can enjoy all the excitement for £4.95.
From £4.95, see website for details http://www.monsterslam.co.uk/
Proud 2 Create Summer Exhibition
August 14-30 at The Margate School, High Street, Margate
An eclectic & vibrant art show Proud 2 Create, featuring art by Deaf, Autistic and Neurodivergent artists.
The Sandra Art4All studio was established (2016) to work with artists with additional needs and is based in Acol in Thanet.
The Proud 2 Create exhibition includes two of the art group’s youngest artist who currently have artwork on displayed at The Turner Contemporary, Margate.
Open every day 11am-4pm
The Greatest Showman ‘Sing a long’
August 16, The Oval Bandstand and Lawns Cliftonville
Cliftonville Outdoor Cinema. Doors open at 7:30pm (drinks and snacks available), Film runs 8:20pm – 10:10pm
“Dive into the mesmerizing world of Phineas Taylor Barnum, the man who dared to dream and blur the line between reality and fantasy. Join us under the stars for an unforgettable outdoor cinema experience as we showcase ‘The Greatest Showman.’ A tale of ambition, innovation, and the true meaning of family. Don’t miss the chance to be captivated by the magic of Barnum’s extraordinary journey. Grab your popcorn, bring your loved ones, and let the enchantment unfold in the open air Sing – along!”
The Oval Bar will be onsite serving a wide selection of drinks including beer, prosecco, wines, spirits, cocktails, and soft drinks. Hot drinks, cold drinks, popcorn and cinema treats will be available at The Oval Kiosk and Bar. Card payment is accept and the preferred method of payment.
Deckchair seating is for those that have booked a deckchair ticket.
Tickets are issued by e-tickets and are strictly non-transferable and non-refundable.
If it rains the cinema will go ahead and there will not be a refund.
Tickets from £8 Book now
East Kent Coast Photography Exhibition
August 17-29, Margate Visitor Centre on the harbour arm, 10am to 5pm
A collection of images, celebrating the beauty of the Thanet and Canterbury Coastline, captured by locals for the 2024 Bird Wise East Kent and Thanet Coast Project Photography Exhibition.
Earlier in the year, Bird Wise and Thanet Coast Project ran the 3rd annual Photography competition, for which they received huge numbers of amazing images. The judges had the tough task of whittling these images down, but it’s finally time to announce and showcase our winners.
Located in the Drum Room at the Margate Visitor Centre. Free entry
Open Air Theatre – Jemima Puddleduck
August 21, Powell-Cotton Museum at Quex
Experience the magic of open-air theatre in the enchanting Quex Gardens.
Performances at 1pm and 5pm (shows are 90 minutes long including an interval)
Pre-booking essential.
Quantum Theatre presents a delightful new adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s much-loved tale — The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck.
Prevented from hatching her eggs at the farm, foolish Jemima goes in search of a nesting place in the forest and soon she meets a charming ‘gentleman’ who offers her the perfect nesting place in his wood shed.
But why is his wood-shed full of feathers and why is he asking her to collect the herbs for roast duck?
Back at the farm, the Collie-dog, Kep, puts two and two together, but will he be in time to rescue Jemima from her fate?
Adult (17-64): £15, Child (4-16): £10 Concession: £11, Family (2 Adults & 2 Children): £42, Infant (0-3): free.
Members receive 10% discount. Book now
Ramsgate Festival of Sound
August 22-25
The festival will feature the Sonic Trail, where sound artists create inventive and immersive site-specific works in and around the town – this year it is being concentrated along the High Street. The theme for 2024 is ‘Synchronicity’ inspired by its Greek meaning ‘Together in Time’.
The Sonic Trail will be displayed at suitable locations throughout Ramsgate between 22nd and 25th August, 12pm – 5pm daily.
For more information about the Sonic Trail click here
At Ellington Park activities include Pirate Adventure with Bindlestick Theatre Company. Join Curly McCutlass on an adventure to reclaim her treasure and become a part of her motley crew. Fight enemy pirates and learn sea shanties, the pirate code and go on a treasure hunt for gold.
The show is on at various times. Book (free) tickets at: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/ramsgatefestivalofsound1/1326599
The park also plays host to baby sensory and toddler sense sessions, performances from This Bean Spins, drumming fun and music.
Full programme updates can be found here
Turnips
August 22, 10.30am-11.30am, Turner Contemporary
Join Turner Contemporary for a free morning of creative fun, exploring a range of crafting activities to learn with your child.
Through working in partnership with three local children’s centres and with support from The Margate Early Learning community and Save The Children, these bi-monthly workshops offer a variety of bespoke sensory and creative activities for all families to enjoy.
The sessions are advertised through the local children’s centres, making sure we reach a wide range of local families and encouraging new audiences into the gallery who would never have engaged with the gallery or the arts prior to attending a Turnip session. The success of the first few sessions has attracted a diverse group of local families to engage with the arts and learn new simple skills to carry on at home with the free craft bags handed out at the end.
Turnips and Turnip Tasters sessions are free and take place bi-monthly:
Turnips is a ticketed workshop taking place in the Foyle Rooms where snacks, drinks and goodie bags are provided. To book Turnips, the Eventbrite ticket will open 2 weeks prior to the workshop.
Turnip Taster is a drop-in workshop taking place in the Clore Learning Studio and is less formatted.
Suitable for ages 0-5yrs
Free entry Book now
The Kent Country Show
August 25-26, Quex Park, Birchington, 10am to 5pm
Come and visit the Kent Country Show and Kent Festival of Dogs
Enjoy a family fun day out with events including:
Rural crafts, crafters & made in Britain
Cookery demonstrations
Festival for kids
Local music artists
We LOVE Dogs
Tickets Online – Adult £11, Concession £10.50, Children (5-15yrs) £5, Under 5s FREE / On the Gate – Adult £12.50, Concession £11.50, Children (5-15yrs) £5.50, Under 5s Free Book now
Mrs Fox Skullduggery Tours
Mrs Fox returns with her Skulduggery Tour of Ramsgate for a second year this summer, plus a new tour: Regency Ramsgate – the Jane Austen Tour.
The Skulduggery Tour of Ramsgate brings you old favourites, fresh stories and a new route! Get ready to explore the dark and mysterious side of Ramsgate in this two-hour tour with the intrepid Mrs Fox as your guide. You’ll hear tales of scandal and intrigue, with a dollop of the town’s social history, as you follow in the footsteps of smugglers, smack boys and murderers – keep your wits about you for rioting mobs and fleeting phantoms.
Every Thursday at 2.30pm and 7pm throughout July and August.
Meet at the Maritime Museum by the Harbour.
It’s a two hour walk with one flight of downward steps.
A new tour launches this summer anticipating the national celebrations of Jane Austen’s life and work in 2025.
Regency Ramsgate: Jane Austen Tour
Step back in time on this two-hour jaunt through the extravagant and fashionable world of the Regency period, when Ramsgate flourished. Fans of Jane Austen will discover why she came to Ramsgate and its influence on her life and works. Discover why Ramsgate was a popular destination for visitors like Emma Hamilton, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Caroline of Brunswick, and many more. Uncover the gossip, secrets, and scandals of this vibrant and saucy era.
Every Wednesday at 2.30pm and 7pm throughout July and August. Meet at Albion Place Gardens.
It’s a two hour walk with some upward steps.
All tickets: £9 from Eventbrite or cash-only on the day though booking advised
Mrs Fox is played by Ramsgate resident Tracy Russell, a costumed historical interpreter with 20 years experience of ‘bringing history to life’ in heritage sites and museums, including the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Dover and Walmer Castles.
She is a member of Walkie-Talkie Audio producing audio trails such as Ramsgate’s Harbour Highlights and High Street Highlights, free to download on the Useeum app.
Follow Mrs Fox’s Skulduggery Tour of Ramsgate Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089828655411
Go to Eventbrite for more information http://bit.ly/4bS6Ct6 for Regency Ramsgate and https://bit.ly/3wZxDvD for the Skulduggery Tour
Margate Soul Festival
Margate Soul Festival will take over the town from August 2-4 with a huge soul street party this August.
The event, which has been running for 22 years, has expanded to include 19 indoor and outdoor venues stretching from The Sun Deck to Margate Leisure Centre on Edgar Road with more outdoor stages than ever before.
There will also be a record fayre, jam rollerskating, secret sets and almost every music venue in Margate is getting in on the act.
This year there will be a huge new beachside main stage (under the Lido sign), new free music stages such as the Balearic Beach Boutique (Jo Mills, Nancy Noise, Dean Thatcher, Chris Coco) and Disco Heaven in Margate’s Old Town.
There are the most late night venues the festival has ever had showcasing the UK’s best soul DJs from MiSoul Radio (Brandon Block, Gordon Mac, Ricky Morrison) Soul Beat Radio and Zero Hour Radio plus local talent from Margate Radio, and other long-standing festival favourites. Secret after parties include an exclusive set from XPress2 and others.
Venues also include Turner Contemporary, Barnacles, WhereElse, the original festival venue of Olby’s Soul Cafe and many more. They will be linked by a free Margate Soul Train which will run between the train station and the key venues and main beachside stage.
The live line up features soul icons from both sides of the Atlantic – Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes; Dexter Wansel; Heatwave; House Gospel Choir and Izo Fitzroy.
There will also be a live reggae show featuring Peter Hunnigale, Sandra Cross and Tipper Irie.
Other events include a soul lovers record fayre; soul jam rollerskating sessions (Sk8 Skillz); Sunset soul bike ride with mobile sound system (Cycle Del Mar) and a Sunday beach clean with Rise Up Clean Up Margate.
The festival will be using eco-generators and low power lighting, partnering with key environmental charities and partners and giving back £1 from every ticket sold to local community groups.
Weekend tickets are £108.90 (£99 + 10% BF) / Day tickets are £60.50 (£55 + 10% BF) / Kids tickets (7-17) are £38.50 (£35 + 10% BF). Margatesoulfestival.co.uk
Rock Music Academy
Looking for the perfect way to keep your children entertained and inspired this summer?
The Rock Music Academy Summer Music Holiday Club is here to bring the joy of music to your child’s holiday.
What’s in store?
* Instrument Discovery: Let your child explore a variety of instruments and find their new passion!
* Musical Games: Fun and engaging games that make learning music an absolute blast!
* Band Classes: Your child can jam with others, building teamwork and performance skills in a supportive environment.
Dates: 5th August – 9th August
Price: £40 a day or £180 for the whole week!
Spaces are limited, so book now to secure your spot!
For more information and to book, visit:
https://www.rockonmusicacademy.com/book-online
Call 01843 865428/ 07579 043114
Email [email protected]
Monkton Nature Reserve
Quex Adventure Farm Park’s Egyptian themed Summer
There are fun activities including the Maize Maze, Cheeky Mummy Chickens tractor ride, bouncy pillows and all the animals plus a daily boogie! Lots to keep the children entertained.
From exploring ancient wonders to petting farm animals, dive into interactive exhibits, conquer the maize maze, and enjoy delicious farm-fresh treats.
Play all day – Enjoy the bouncing pillows, woodland agility trail and other play equipment!
Egyptian Maze – Explore the Egyptian Maze this Summer! Find the Hieroglyphics and track down the lost Egyptian Treasure. Will you find your way out?
Cheeky Mummy Chickens – Board the tractor trailer to hunt down the Escaped Mummy Chickens. Armed with a water pistol you’re sure of a soggy adventure!
Egyptian Party Time – Learn to Walk like an Egyptian at Egyptian Party time. Once a day it’s time for a boogie on the farm!
Bee Trail – Explore the Bee Trail and learn about the secret lives of Bees and just how important they are on the farm. It’ll Bee a Buzz!
There is a 50% off Summer Season pass offer, £20 for a child to come and play in the park all summer from 24th July to 1st September and £10 for adults all summer. The offer runs out on 23rd July, so its last chance to get the deal of the summer!
https://www.quexadventurefarmpark.com/egyptiansummer
The discount is applied at the checkout.
