Santa harbour visit
December 12, 6pm, Ramsgate harbour
Father Christmas will be touring the inner harbour with his RNLI elves.
Food and drink available from businesses at the Military Road arches
Winter Exhibition: The Magic of Blue and White
The Royal Albion Hotel in Broadstairs has unveiled its winter exhibition, The Magic of Blue and White. The opening event drew an enthusiastic crowd and marked the beginning of a visually captivating showcase that runs until the end of February.
More than 30 artworks are featured in the exhibition, transforming the hotel into a serene world of blue-and-white imagination. At the heart of the display stands an hand-painted fireplace created by artist Lana Arkhi.
The exhibition also presents 23 paintings created by Kent Talents students aged 11 to 17, whose expressive and imaginative works bring youthful energy to the winter theme.
The Mayor of Broadstairs, Mike Garner, officially opened the exhibition.
Most of the artworks displayed throughout the exhibition are available for purchase.
Soft Thorns
Now until December 15, Projects Kavel Rafferty 22-23 Cecil Square, Margate
An exhibition of works from Esme Bone, Anna Presilia and Dominic Rose, three Margate-based artists with shared interests in materiality, play and the life cycles of objects.
Often originating from domestic waste and other discarded fragments, their sculptures and assemblages respond to the vitality and beauty of everyday matter.
The artists use a diverse range of materials such as Esme’s tea leaf pulp made from months of saved teabags, Dominic’s garden clay dipped in beeswax from his honeybees or Anna’s use of vegetable peelings. Each of their choices offers audiences a glimpse into an aspect of their life and self.
Weekend of Wonder
December 12-14 Ramsgate
There will be Light Up Ramsgate’s trail of light installations around the town centre, featuring a fantastic, pulsing, beating, Mechanical Heart by blacksmith Felicity Jones. Full trail map and artwork details on the website.
On 12 December there’s an Advent Doors special event at the Ramsgate Tunnels; as well as the launch of the Christmas Tree Festival at St George’s Church and the RLNI bringing Santa into the harbour by boat.
This is followed by “BYOB” – Bring Your Own Beamer, a night of DIY light and projections (donations on the door, with music and bar) at Arts In Ramsgate on December 13th. With a packed programme of more bands and music events at Slice, the Queens Head, Screaming Alley’s Alley Bar and The Pub across the weekend, keep an eye on the Festival socials or check out the website for all event details. Website
Crabs and Crabmas
12th December – 13th December, 7.30pm, Tom Thumb Theatre Cliftonville
Punk band Crabs launch their 4th annual Crabmas festival show.
What could be more Christmassy than a man dressed as a crab singing about gentrification and camper vans?
Support from garage-punk legends Los Coyote Menand the one and only bard of Broadstairs, Harmony Bo.
Tickets £12 Book now
Christmas Tree Festival
Last day 12th December, 10.30am – 12.30pm, St Thomas Church Birchington
The church will be decorated with trees from other churches, church groups, community groups and local schools
Seasonal refreshments will be served
Donations for ‘Christian Aid’ gratefully received
Late Night Christmas Craft Fair
12th December, 4pm-8pm, The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies
Get into the Christmas spirit at The WonderWorks in Margate!
The WonderWorks and café will be open till 8pm for late night shopping and some tasty festive snacks whilst you browse the craft fair which is showcasing local craft makers.
Turner x Olby’s: Jazz by the Sea
12th December, 7.30pm, Turner Contemporary
An intimate night of live jazz… Experience leading voices from the UK scene
This December edition features internationally acclaimed vocalist Christine Tobin, performing with Liam Noble and Dave Whitford as ‘Chlida’ — a reunion of three highly inventive artists with deep musical rapport. Their extended second set blends original material with vivid new arrangements of Tom Waits, Duke Ellington, Milton Nascimento and more – expressive, soulful and richly textured.
Opening the night: Liam Noble & Dave Whitford: BRUBECK—an inspired reimagining of Dave Brubeck’s most iconic works. Familiar melodies meet bold improvisation, balancing reverence with fresh possibility.
If booking as a group, please email [email protected], and they will seat you together where possible.
Recommended for visitors aged 16 and over
From £22.50 Book now
Elz’s Xmas Office Party
12th December, Olby’s Soul Café Margate
Dinner from 6pm, Event 9pm – 2am
This is the Xmas office party for people without an office: freelancers, friend groups and anyone who wants to role play snoggin’ a co-worker.
DJ SOPHIE STIRLING / DJ LEAHPAATRA / KARAOKE ROOM / FAUX OFFICE PHOTOBOOTH / PHOTOCOPY MACHINE CONTEST
You can also book in for a XMAS dinner before the party kicks off, real office party style! Check out the menu here
Reserve your dinner with a £5 deposit… Combine this deposit with a discounted party ticket for £11.
Tickets £15 plus booking fee Book now
A Swing Noir Christmas
12th December, 7pm, Wagtails Cafe & Bar Minnis Bay
Step into the roaring 20s in style.
A Christmas special evening of cool jazz and swing!
Swing Noir are an acoustic group, covering music from the 20s to the 70s, with influences such as Django Reindhart, Mel Torme and Ella Fitzgerald.
Ticket price of £25 includes a welcome drink, mince pie and luxury cheese board.
Call 01843 663474 to book.
Silvers Christmas Party with Hullabaloo
12th December, 7pm, Silvers Showbar Ramsgate
Get ready to jive and swing into the season with live music from the incredible Hullabaloo – a high-energy jive swing band that’s guaranteed to get you dancing.
Secure your spot with just a £5 deposit. Spaces are limited and it’s going to be a cracker.
Limited seating will be available on a first come, first served basis.
Price £20 per person – includes a festive buffet! Book now
Beans On Toast
13th December, 7.30pm, Ramsgate Music Hall
A travelling troubadour for the ages, Beans is an entertainer, singer, songwriter, storyteller – and a master of his art.
Tickets £19.50 nBook now
A Night With Amy Lennox
12th December, 7pm, The Alley Bar Ramsgate
Olivier Award-nominated actor and singer performs a special Light Up Late performance
Amy has starred in numerous major West End productions, most recently and notably her highly acclaimed turn as Sally Bowles in the multi-award-winning production of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club.
Her theatre credits include the original London productions of Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde, David Bowie’s Lazarus, Opening Night, and The Sound of Music.
On screen, Amy has completed filming on the second series of BBC Comedy Only Child, in which she plays Emily, as well as a series-regular role in the highly anticipated Blade Runner 2099 for Amazon Prime – both due for release in 2026.
Join Amy for an intimate and eclectic evening of songs and stories spanning her varied career over the past two decades – a rare chance to experience a big West-End performer in an intimate setting.
She is joined by Archie, a musical director, pianist and arranger who trained at Trinity Laban Conservatoire and works extensively across musical theatre.
Tickets £10 plus booking fee Book now
MADE by Margate Launch Party
12th December, 6pm-9pm, Launching MADE by Margate with a pop-up Christmas shop at 151 Northdown Rd
Expect an evening of festive shopping, drinks, and local makers!
Margate Jewellers’ Showcase
13th December – 14th December, 11am to 4pm, Turner Contemporary
A carefully curated, unique event showcasing independent designers and artisans in Margate
Featuring Alice Ruby, Ami Blastock, Rosita Bonita, Billie Grand, Jayne Fowler, Rebecca Gladstone, and more.
On Sunday 14 December you can also take part in a Gilded Walnut Workshop to create your own beautiful decoration with drop-in and ticketed sessions available throughout the day.
A bar will also be open serving mulled cider and Christmas cocktails.
John Golding’s Hyperactive Distractions
13th December, 7.30pm, Tom Thumb Theatre
With support bands The Fish Mittens and That’s Not Your Cat at Margate’s Tom Thumb Theatre.
From £8.50 Book now
Railway Tunnels Tour
13th December, 11am Ramsgate Tunnels
A guided walk along the entire length of the 1863 mainline railway tunnel at the Ramsgate Tunnels
The tour offers a guided walk along the entire length of the 1863 mainline railway tunnel and, circumstances permitting, the option of a detour up the 1936 narrow gauge railway branch tunnel.
There are features of both specific and general interest, including the mysterious monolith.
The main tunnel is two-thirds of a mile long, with the far end being just inside the Broadstairs boundary.
This tour can take up to two hours. Owing to the uneven nature of the tunnel floor sensible shoes should be worn for the 1.5 mile long tour and remember to dress warmly. Torches will be supplied although you are welcome to bring your own.
This tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or for children under the age of 10. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Tickets £15 Book now
Bradstow School Final Christmas Fair
13th December, 11am to 2pm, Bradstow School Broadstairs
Join with pupils and staff at Bradstow School to celebrate their final Christmas Fair
The school we be closing permanently on 31st December this year, so don’t miss this last chance to enjoy a Christmas celebration with the Bradstow School Family…
* Christmas Carols & Entertainments * Stalls & Food * Father Christmas *
* Everyone’s Welcome *
We Are Balearic: Winter Party
13th December, 9.30pm, Faith In Strangers Cliftonville
Bar/Restaurant open for food & drinks from 6pm
Sets from Evil Plans, Alex Savvides and special guest Terry Francis
Dinner beforehand by Jackson Berg — with his exclusive Winter menu. Book in for dinner and a dance!
This is an 18+ event
Tickets £15 Book now
Dickens House Museum Festive Weekend
13th December – 14th December, Dickens House Museum Broadstairs
1pm – 4.30pm with last entry 4pm
Dickens House Museum celebrates Charles Dickens’ long connection with Broadstairs (1837-1851). It is housed in the cottage that was Charles Dickens’ inspiration for the home of Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield.
The Dickens House volunteers will be bringing a timeless tale to life with a captivating performance of the classic ‘A Christmas Carol’.
Enjoy festive activities for all ages, from children’s Christmas crafts to enchanting tours led by costumed characters. With Christmas Carols being sung in the garden.
Stroll through the museum, soak in the Christmas spirit and find unique gifts for loved ones in our Christmas shop.
Tickets for the tour are only £4.50 for adults and £2 for children. Free entry for shopping
Happy Reading Children’s Bookshop: Kid’s Event: Christmas Creative Poetry Workshopshopping!
13th December, The Happy Reading Children’s Bookshop Broadstairs
11am – 11.45am and 1pm – 1.45pm
A warm and joyful Christmas Author Event with Neal Hoskins, creator of the beautiful, lyrical picture book The Girl and the Robot Heart (Thames & Hudson).
This festive workshop is designed to spark imagination, celebrate words, and help children discover the magic of poetry in a playful, gentle way.
During this cosy 45-minute session, children will:
Listen to a selection of Neal’s favourite poems, chosen especially for the season
Create their very own Christmas Tree Poems – tiny treasures of words arranged like baubles on a tree
It’s a perfect activity for children who love stories, creativity, and crafting something meaningful to take home or gift to someone special.
Copies of ‘The Girl and the Robot Heart’ will be available to purchase for signing by Neal Hoskins on the day.
During the session, the responsible adult(s) are very welcome to enjoy their favourite coffee and pastry downstairs at STAPLE or come and hang out upstairs in the bookshop!!
Children will sit for the reading, then move to a play/craft table for activities. All materials are provided and age-appropriate.
For all ages.
Booking is essential — spaces are limited!
Tickets £5 per child includes 25% off any book in-store on the day of the event (one discount per child ticket) Book now
Panel Talk with Tracey Emin, Katy Hessel, Russell Tovey and Robert Diament
13th December, 4pm, TKE Studios Margate
A special conversation on the making of contemporary art books.
Digging into why art books matter, how they come together and what they can offer beyond the walls of the gallery.
This event is ticketed and spaces are limited, so RSVP is essential.
A book signing and exhibition opening follow from 5pm, so if you don’t get a ticket for the talk you can still attend the signing, festive drinks and opening of the new show.
Free Book now
Strangeland Book Signing & Exhibition Opening
Tracey Emin will be signing copies of her book ‘Strangeland’, with special guests
Tracey Emin has just re-released her memoir Strangeland in a 20th anniversary edition featuring a new cover, a new introduction and a self-portrait. The book traces her childhood in Margate, her early years in London and her family’s connection to Turkey.
Talk Art’s Robert Diament and Russell Tovey have published Art School (in a book), a lively guide to contemporary art for curious minds. Think virtual gallery meets creative toolkit.
Katy Hessel has released How to Live an Artful Life, offering reflections and inspiration drawn from artists such as Marina Abramovic, Nan Goldin, Lubaina Himid and Louise Bourgeois.
Books will be on sale through Margate Bookshop’s pop-up at TKE… Festive drinks and mince pies included.
Christmas Market
13th December – 14th December, 10am to 5pm, Royal Albion Hotel in Broadstairs
Stalls from local artists and businesses… varying from pottery, artwork, crochet, candles and much more!!
Billy: Twirling Through Time at ARK
13th December, 8pm ARK – Cliftonville Cultural Space
A playful tribute to Billy Elliot, and a nostalgic celebration of dance, queer friendship, and identity…
This vibrant performance, inspired by the seminal film Billy Elliot, spins, pirouettes, and lip syncs its way through a nostalgic and joyful exploration of the enduring bonds that make us move.
Tom Marshman and Ryan O’Shea bring humour and heartfelt reflection to the stage, reimagining iconic moments from the film while exploring the challenges of ageing in dance. Be prepared for cheap wigs, even cheaper costumes, and a rich tapestry of life experiences.
Presented by Beacons, Icons and Dykons – an ode to gay and queer heritage, community, and cinema.
Tickets £14 Concession £10 Plus voluntary £3 donation towards Tom’s work Book now
Festive Candle-Making Workshop
13th– 14th December, 11am, Ramsay & Williams, Margate Old Town
Good Tidings present a relaxed 90 minute workshop where you’ll learn to create your own festive essential-oil candle.
Blend your own bespoke fragrance before hand-pouring your candle to take home…as a gift for that special person, or just for yourself!
The workshop is a relaxed festive introduction to the process of using essential oils and natural wax to create botanical candles. You will be guided though exploring and experimenting with the oils to make your bespoke festive scent blend, before hand pouring your own candle to take home. Think warming spices like clove, cinnamon and nutmeg, festive fir needle and pine, alongside classics like clementine and frankincense. Paired with our other workshop oils you can lean into tradition or experiment with a more contemporary winter blend…
Your candle will need to set for 40 minutes before you can take it away (to preserve a smooth top). If you agree a time to pop back, the candles will be carefully labelled. Book Here
Good Tidings have also opened their Christmas store at the premises
Expect festive merriments, unique gifts and oddities from local artists and makers, workshops and candle-lit events.
There will also be ice cream available to take home in new limited-edition seasonal flavours!
Tickets £45 Book now
Clayspace Christmas Ceramics Market
13th December, 10am-4pm, Clayspace Studios, Unit 1, rear of 60 Ethelbert Road, Cliftonville,
A festive one-day market packed with beautiful ceramics from local makers — perfect for gifting or treating yourself…
It’s the Christmas pot sale, with incredible gorgeous pots made by our wonderful staff, and by lots of potters from the Clayspace Extended Family, including some lovely Christmas decorations made by the Kids Clay Club Crew.
And of course a chance to rummage in bargain corner amongst the “unloved pots” section.
And also… Clayspace is 10!
The doors will be open in the evening after the sale, so enjoy a celebration drink, and maybe a slice of birthday cake too.
Hoff’s Christmas Market
13th December, noon to 7pm, Hoffs, Marine Drive, Margate
Expect 20 brilliant local designers under one roof.
Art, ceramics, jewellery, mystic readings, food, gifts and more – plus free mulled wine for early birds!
Enjoy the small-shopping experience Margate-style, meeting local makers and independents while you soaking up some festive seafront vibes…
Neptunes Choir Christmas Concert
13th December, Christ Church in Ramsgate, 6.30pm – 9pm
Get ready to jingle all the way at the Neptunes Choir Christmas Concert!
An evening filled with festive tunes, joyful harmonies and Christmas cheer.
It’s the perfect way to kick off the season with friends and family.
Don’t miss out on the magic — come and celebrate the spirit of Christmas with us!
Tickets £10 plus booking fee Book now
Quiztingle
13th December, 7pm, Violets, High Street, St Lawrence
Christmas themed quiz night at Violet’s in Ramsgate.
Tickets £5pp
Clubbercise
December 13, 9am, Manston Social Club
Easy to follow routines to the best tunes from the 90’s up to present day hits.
As well as movement to the music you’ll be singing and smiling, forgetting you’re actually exercising! This workout feels like a night out (or morning out as the case may be).
With disco lights/darkness and optional glowsticks, you can leave all your worries at the door and have some you time for an hour.
Low impact options given throughout so you can really make the workout your own.
All fitness abilities welcome.
Age 13-17 can attend with an adult too! (Parent/child discount available).
Booking essential at www.bookwhen.com/fitnesswithnaomi
New to Clubbercise or bringing someone new? Get your class half price – Saturday offer only. Usual price £6 payg.
When booking just check the checkbox to ‘agree to pay later’ to receive discount at class.
https://bookwhen.com/fitnesswithnaomi#focus=ev-sppm-20251213090000
Christmas Karma PG
13 December to 19 December, Palace Cinema Broadstairs
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol transformed into a joyous, colourful, feel-good Christmas musical!
The MISFITS (PG)
December 12, doors open 1.30pm, Ramsgate Community Cinema, Albert Street
This Western/Romance brought 2 Hollywood mega stars together, and for both, it was to be their last completed films. Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe are joined by Montgomery Clift and directed by John Huston.
Free tea/coffee and pay-what-you-can-on-the-door
Elvis at Christmas – Ft Ben Thompson LIVE!
14th December, 7pm, The Pavilion Broadstairs
Accompanied by the sensational Big Boss Band, Ben brings the spirit of Elvis and the spirit of Christmas to life in a spectacular live performance.
From hits like ‘Blue Christmas’ and ‘Here comes Santa Clause’ to the rocking ‘Santa Clause is Back in Town’ and the traditional Christmas covers.
Kick the festive period off with the King at Christmas!
Tickets £29.42 Book now
Zootropolis 2 – PG
Carlton Cinema Westgate
Detectives Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde find themselves on the twisting trail of a mysterious reptile who arrives in Zootopia and turns the mammal metropolis upside down. To crack the case, Judy and Nick must go undercover to unexpected new parts of town, where their growing partnership is tested like never before. Please be aware that “ZOOTROPOLIS 2” contains several sequences with flashing lights that may affect those who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy or have other photo sensitivities.
Now until December 18. Details here
Thanet Green Party Christmas social event
December 13, Whereelse Margate
A free daytime event, noon- 5pm for families, with Santa’s Grotto, kids karaoke and stalls, and then a quiz and disco from 7pm to 2am costing £8 (£5 for concessions). See below event.
People need to book (even for the free afternoon) to control numbers: https://whereelse.live/
Mr Ned’s Bread Dead Redemption Quiz
14th December, 7pm, Where Else? in Margate
To celebrate the changing of the seasons, and a move toward a toastier tempo of life – Where Else have enlisted Mr Ned to host a series of three quizzes.
Gather your team (of 5) and join them on the most rambling and esoteric quiz series you’ve ever taken part in.
Maximum of 5 people per team / fun prizes to be won
This is an all ages event Book now
Nev’s Marvellous Christmas Magic Show
14th December, 11am, Tom Thumb Theatre
From mind-boggling magic to lung-busting jokes, this show has it all! Whether it is your first trip to the theatre or your one hundred and first, you will be sure to have a fantastic time!
From £10 Book now
Thanet Male Voice Choir Charity Christmas Concert
14th December, 2.30pm, Holy Trinity Church in Broadstairs
All seats are unallocated.
Tickets will be available prior to each concert.
Contact Andy Brown on 01843 844 625 / [email protected]
Blackout Tour
14th December, 4pm, Ramsgate Tunnels
Experienced guides take you back to the dark days of November 1940, lit only with paraffin lamps, at the Ramsgate Tunnels
As the bitterly cold winter of 1940 set in, Ramsgate was a town in the grips of war, scarred by earlier air raids with a population hoping that it would all be over by Christmas.
Early in November the town suffered an air raid that knocked out the electricity and gas supply leaving the town in darkness. Air raids or air raid warnings continued everyday, up to six times a day throughout the month and the residents of Ramsgate grew restless as conditions in the town started to deteriorate.
Join Ramsgate Tunnels for a tour lit only with paraffin lamps, as the experienced guides take you back to the dark days of Winter 1940.
The tour lasts approximately 1 hr 30 mins.
Due to the restricted visibility on the tours and the paraffin lamps used the tour is unsuitable for children aged 12 and below and for those with mobility issues.
A safety briefing is given at the start of the tour.
Remember to wrap up warm, the Tunnels remain at a cool 11°C.
Tickets £15 Book now
Handmade Craft Fair
December 14. 10am to 3pm, Quex Small Barn
Coastal Crafty Crew fair with handmade crafts
Free admission, free parking, tombola for Guide Dogs for the Blind
Dog in Jorts x ARK Indoor Market
14th December, 11am to 4pm, ARK – Cliftonville Cultural Space
Monthly indoor market collab with ARK in Cliftonville and a local shop in Margate called Dogs in Jorts.
The indoor market showcases local makers/businesses/creatives and so on, inside the beautiful old synagogue.
Broadstairs Farmers Market
14th December, 10am to 1pm, Bleak House Broadstairs
Local produce, artisan bakes, rolled ice cream, sunshine, family friendly, dogs welcome!
Thanet Jubilee Singers
December 14, 4pm, San Clu Ramsgate
Thanet Jubilee Singers will perform Christmas Singalong events with the emphasis on participation and raising money in aid of Porchlight homelessness charity.
Expect a mix of popular classics and traditional carols.
Market
The market in Ramsgate is held on Fridays. The market at Manston is held on Sundays from 8.30am to 3pm. Lots of stalls, traders old and new promised.
Perry’s Meats will be at The Windmill in Ramsgate on Saturday 7am to 4pm and then at Manston on Sunday. Saturday at The Windmill is the last chance to order your Christmas hamper.
