Christmas Events

Christmas is such an exciting and magical time and in Maidstone we have an amazing schedule of events and activities to share with you. There are so many interesting things to do, from fairs and fetes to markets and concerts, making this a great time to visit. 

If you’re looking for some festive fun near you, then many Maidstone attractions have special Christmas events and activities in the lead up to the big day.

A Visit to Santa

Children will love meeting Santa and he’s popping into a few venues this year! See the dates for his visits and remember to book early to see him. For those children wishing to send their wish list to Santa, Santa's Giant Postbox will be at Lockmeadow on the 30th November and 1st December. Lockmeadow Entertainment Complex kicks off the Christmas season with Santa and his sleigh, and a winter fun fair from the 30th November to 1st December.

The Experience Christmas at Kent Life is always amazing and completely unique. There is the opportunity to meet with Father Christmas and children are invited to select a gift from the well stocked shop. Father Christmas is also visiting Maidstone Museum and can be found by the fireplace on 7th, 14th and 21st December. Booking to see Father Christmas is essential.

For Christmas Magic

Leeds Castle invites you to step into the magical world of The Nutcracker where toys come to life!

Don't miss the Christmas Lights experience this year in the Castle grounds during the evenings. Tickets are available for this special event and it runs from 22nd November until 1st January.

Christmas Pantomime

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a special festive pantomime, and this year the Hazlitt Theatre has got something really special to keep the tradition alive. From 30th November  – 31th December follow Cinderella on her journey to the Ball with all the classic pantomime spells - roaring comedy, smash-hit songs, and a whirl-wind romance. Along the way, meet Cinderella’s evil step-sisters, the Fairy Godmother, and - of course! - Prince Charming. Guaranteed to sweep you off your feet, this family pantomime will have something for everyone, so book your tickets now!

Christmas Fairs

A number of Christmas Fairs are hosted around Maidstone, so it is worth checking the listings to find the dates which suit you. 

For that True Christmas Feel

The Carols by Candlelight at The Friars on the 13th & 14th December brings a warmth to the traditional carol singing of the season, accompanied by the Medway Towns Brass Band.

For the grown ups

Check out this page as there is a host of great events for grown-ups from Murder Mystery evenings to parties, special Christmas teas, lunches and a Casino Night.

Christmas Walks

Visit Maidstone has a useful blog on the 12 Walks for Christmas, which is a variety of great options, from treking along country paths to sticking to tarmac pathways. Some walks are suitable for those needing wheels, or trying out Christmas presents like scooters and bikes. Going for a walk gets everyone out into the fresh air for a little while and some ideas are useful.  

New Year's Eve

Check out the listings at the bottom of this page for New Year's Eve Events. There is a lot of singing, dancing and dining to be found.

Christmas Shopping Opening Hours in Maidstone

Maidstone has a fantastic retail offer all year round, but at Christmas time it gets even better. The Mall Maidstone and Fremlin Walk, as well as many of the excellent independent stores in town, all extend their opening hours so that you can continue shopping into the evening under the lovely sparkling lights. Check out our Christmas Shopping Pages for some unusual but useful gifts and shopping centre opening times.