Annual raft race returns for the Maidstone River Festival 2025 with a fairytale theme

A splash-tastic river festival is back and, this year, it’s sprinkling a little magic all over the county town.

The annual festival, which has been part of Maidstone’s summer celebrations for more than 40 years, has a ‘fairytales and fantasy’ theme, featuring enchanting illuminations and a fancy dress raft race.

This year’s Maidstone River Festival includes a range of waterfront activities and entertainment, with the highlight being the exhilarating raft race.

Teams will bring their colourful rafts to High Level Bridge, where competitors will set sail along the 650-metre stretch of the River Medway, finishing in Archbishop’s Place.

Thousands of people usually find a spot on the riverbank to cheer on the raft racers and see who will cross the finish line first.

There will also be paddle boarders, family games and, in the evening, illuminated boats will take to the water.

Visitors are encouraged to dress as their favourite fairytale characters and enjoy everything the festival has to offer, including a craft market at Lockmeadow, live entertainment at Brenchley Gardens, and tours with river views at All Saints Church.

There will also be a stage at Coronation Square with live music from the likes of the Kent Academy of Musical Theatre, the Soul Choir, the Doddington Ukulele Movement and more.

It’s all rounded off with a spectacular fireworks display from the roof of Fremlin Walk at 10pm.

The Maidstone Riverside Festival takes place on Saturday, July 26. It’s all free to attend and the festivities start from 10am.