What’s on guide: December
With life getting busier every week and new bars, restaurants and events opening every month, staying on top can be tricky. So here’s a round up of this month’s hottest happenings in and around the local area…
What? Christmas Rox!
Where? The Woodville, Gravesend, Kent
When? Tuesday 24th December
Rox has always wanted to be an Elf and ride on Santa’s sleigh. As Christmas gets closer and closer come and join her adventures to make her dream come true. The perfect Christmas show for children under 7 years old.Come and join Santa, Rudolf, Elf and Rox at the Woodville Studio for their rockin' Christmas show. Meet and greet with Santa with a present for every child.
What? Dickensian Christmas Market
Where? Gable Hall School, Southend Road, Corringham
When? Saturday 14th December 2019
Go back into Christmas past with this Christmas market right out of a Charles Dicken’s novel. There will be a variety of stalls and refreshments on site which will be selling Prosecco and mulled wine, among other Christmassy treats. Be entertained by the performers, while you pick up a gift or two for loved ones (or even for yourself!). A treat for all those looking to get into the festive mood.
What? Kent’s biggest and best country Family Sunday boot sale
Where? One Tree field, fox hounds lane, Southfleet
When? Sunday 15th December
Sitting alongside the A2 there is a big 40 acre field where you can grab thousands of bargains and maybe pick up some Christmas gifts! Make your way through the selling stalls while filling your stomach with the many treats and food stalls. Easy to access and a very enjoyable day.
What? Experience Christmas at Kent Life
Where? Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone
When? Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th, Thursday 19th - Tuesday 24th December 2019
Come along and meet Father Christmas and his elves, visit the grotto, create a gingerbread masterpiece and see the Big Man himself. Why not purchase a picture as a memory of your visit and post your letter in the Post Office. Don’t forget to visit the animals in the farmyard and take a ride on the Jingle Express.
What? Christmas Holidays
Where? Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone
When? Friday 27th December 2019 to Sunday 5th January 2020
There's a whole host of festive fun, visit cuddle corner, join in with games on the green, take a fun farm ride or get creative in the paint-a-pot studio. There's also indoor and outdoor play to enjoy, or take time to explore our range of historic buildings, all decorated for Christmas. If you need to warm up, Dotty's is perfect for a tasty hot chocolate and a whole host of food options.
What? Heart of Kent Hospice Santa Dash
Where? Gallagher Stadium,James Whatman Way, Maidstone
When? Saturday 21st December 2019
Christmas is coming and you have the amazing opportunity to make a dash in true festive fashion across Maidstone United's football pitch in support of your local hospice. All bookings include a standing ticket for the Maidstone United v. Dorking Wanderers game as well as a 5 piece Santa Suit for the dash and an exclusive Santa Dash medal. All child participants will be entered into a draw to win a football signed by all members of the Maidstone United First Team.
What? Storytime with Santa at Fremlin Walk
Where? Fremlin Walk Shopping Centre, 62 Earl Street, Maidstone
When? Saturday 7th December to Tuesday 24th December 2019
Join Santa for Christmas Storytelling Sessions at Fremlin Walk. Due to popular demand in 2018, Santa will once again be visiting Fremlin Walk’s Christmas Cabin to entertain the children of Kent with his magical stories throughout the festive period. Santa and his trusty Elf, Sparkle, will be joining the Maidstone Shopping Centre on selected dates throughout December.
What? Smarden Christmas Tree Festival
Where? St Michaels Church, The Street, Smarden, Ashford
When? Friday 13th December to Sunday 15th December 2019
A wonderful village event, where over 30 clubs, societies, families and businesses compete to be awarded the 'best in show' with their decorated Christmas Trees. These are decorated in a variety of ways, from the beautifully designed and crafted - to the weird and whacky. Come along and vote for your favourite tree! While you are there, enjoy the live music, imbibe in a glass or two of mulled wine and some mince pies, buy some raffle tickets, buy something from the Christmas Craft stall or from the Christmas Produce stall, and enjoy this wonderful way to start the Christmas Season.