Things to do this weekend in Kent, August 17 and 18, including Truckfest, Dover History Festival and Tractorfest in Biddenden

Trucks and tractors are rolling into Kent this weekend for two big festivals.

But if Truckfest or Tractorfest aren't for you, there are plenty of other options to tempt the family out the door.
Here are seven suggestions for your weekend...

Dr Ranj. Picture credit: ITV/(C) Twofour Productions
Dr Ranj. Picture credit: ITV/(C) Twofour Productions

1. Dr Ranj book signing, Waterstones Bluewater

Saturday, August 17

Doctor, children's television presenter and Strictly star Dr Ranj will be meetings fans at Bluewater from 11am on Saturday.

The star of the Cbeebies series Get Well Soon and This Morning resident doctor will be signing copies of his new book Save Money Lose Weight. This event is free of charge but fans are advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment and need to have a copy of Save Money Lose Weight in order to meet him.

For further information contact Waterstones Bluewater on 01322 624831.

2. Dover History Festival

Saturday, August 17 and Sunday, August 18

The inaugural Dover History Festival with the theme Age of the Saxons takes place on both days this weekend.

Running across Dover Town Centre, Dover Museum, Roman Painted House, Discovery Centre and Dover’s Roman Lawn near Market Square the festival is a whole weekend of Saxon themed activities for all ages. And many of them are free!

Events begin at 10.30am each morning and there is plenty to see and do. For a complete run down of what has been scheduled for each day pleae see the facebook page here.

Truckfest at The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood
Truckfest at The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood

3. Truckfest South East, Hop Farm, Paddock Wood

Saturday, August 17 and Sunday, August 18

Petrol heads big and small will be suited to a fantastic day out at Truckfest.

Motorcycle stunts, monster trucks, children's characters, arena displays, food and drink and a family fun fair are among all of the attractions gearing up for visitors in an action packed weekend at the Hop Farm. The event opens at 9am each day.

For ticket information and further details click here.

Tractorfest in Biddenden
Tractorfest in Biddenden

4. Biddenden Tractorfest and Country Fair

Saturday, August 17 and Sunday, August 18

Woolpack Corner in Biddenden will be a hive of noise and activity when the annual Tractorfest rolls into the village together with the country fair.

Thousands of visitors attend the event which includes tractor rides, arena displays involving dogs, birds of prey and horses, craft stalls, children's entertainment, live music and plenty of local artisan food and drink. The event opens at 10am on each day. Ticket information and further details are available here.

5. Hospital Fair, Kent and Canterbury Hospital

Saturday, August 17

A dog show, children's art competition, stalls, brass band, games, Punch and Judy shows, a bouncy castle and face painting are among some of the attractions at the popular hospital fair.

The annual event, organised by the League of Friends, will be opened by the Lord Mayor of Canterbury at 11am and runs until 2pm. The traditional fair promises lots of events and activities for familues on the lookout for something to do on Saturday afternoon, all whilst raising money for a good cause. Additional information can be found here.

Fame the Musical is at The Marlowe
Fame the Musical is at The Marlowe

6. Fame, Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

Until Saturday, August 17

The perfect outing for older children this Saturday night - Fame the musical is based on the 1980 phenomenal pop culture film which follows the lives of students at New York’s High School For The Performing Arts.

Featuring the Oscar-winning title song and a cast of outstanding dancers, singers, musicians and rappers the story follows their journey as they transform from star-struck pupils to superstars.
Tickets are still on sale. More details here.

Betteshanger Wind Festival
Betteshanger Wind Festival

7. Wind Festival, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal

Sunday, August 18

Bring along the family with a picnic and enjoy a day of kite flying at Betteshanger's annual Wind Festival.

The event is free and is a fantastic chance to watch the Kent Kite Flyers fill the sky with their colourful shapes and creations. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own kites to fly and there will be a kite making workshop for children costing £3 each. The festival takes place between 11am and 5pm. There is no need to book. All the details here.

  • For more suggestions of things to do in Kent or activities to enjoy before the kids head back to school please click here.

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