Christmas Lights & Festive Markets in Kent & Sussex 2025

With winter approaching fast, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in towns and cities across the region. From Margate to Folkestone, and Canterbury to Rye, the southeast is abundant with festive events for all ages – many of which start in November and extend all the way up until Christmas.

Here we’ve rounded up the best of Kent & Sussex seasonal events in 2025 to mark in your calendar; from artisan markets to Christmas lights, there are plenty of opportunities to get in the festive spirit in the run-up to the 25th.

Folkestone Harbour’s Festive Marketplace (14th November – 24th December)

Make your way to the Kent coast for a festive shopping experience at Folkestone Harbour’s popular Festive Marketplace, which runs all the way up to Christmas Eve. Open every Friday & Saturday from 11am to 7pm, and Sundays – as well as the 22nd, 23rd and 24th December– from 11am to 6pm, this charming market offers a perfect place to find unique holiday gifts. 

Scattered throughout the harbour’s fisherman huts, the market will be filled with stalls selling handmade crafts, delicious food, and one-of-a-kind gift ideas. Whether you’re looking for artisanal treasures or seasonal delights, there’s something for everyone, all under twinkling festive lights with a Christmas tree at the heart of it all. In addition to an array of festive stalls, the market offers free classic holiday films on the Big Screen, as well as the return of the popular Harbour Grotto, making it a perfect outing for all ages.

Where to stay:

The View at Shoreline (sleeps 4) 

Shoreline Beach House (sleeps 8) 

Abbots Cliff House (sleeps 10)

Christmas at Hever Castle (21st November – 2nd January)

Follow the yellow brick road on a magical journey through Hever Castle this Christmas – there’s no place like Hever! Begin in Kansas at Dorothy’s house, meet beloved characters along the way, and step into the colourful Land of Oz brought to life through enchanting displays. As darkness falls from 4pm, the castle, gardens, and lake sparkle with festive lights, while little ones can add extra magic with a visit to Father Christmas. Early booking recommended to secure your preferred date and time.

Where to stay:

Bushes Oast (sleeps 5) 

Canterbury Christmas Market (12th November – 24th December)

Immerse yourself in a world of festive cheer at Canterbury Christmas Market, one of the largest in the region with 120 huts and 172 stallholders spread across Whitefriars, St Georges, and the Canterbury Cathedral Precincts. Alongside a seasonal market of handcrafted goods, gifts, and treats, there’ll be live performances of classic carols and holiday songs to offer a soundtrack to your Christmas shopping.

At St George’s St, Santa makes an appearance from 29th November, with little ones invited along to the Grotto and Breakfast with Santa where they’ll find Christmas craft activities (booking required). There’s even something for your four-legged friends with Santa Paws, where dogs can have their photos taken with Santa and enjoy ‘puppuccinos’ and a treat.

For something a little more interactive, there’s also the Lapland and Dash’s Toy Workshop Rescue, where guests can jump into the world of Father Christmas through fun VR experiences and rides.

Where to stay:

The Linen House (sleeps 4) 

Honeywood Lodge (sleeps 8)