Margate is one of the oldest seaside resorts boasting a lovely, sandy, north facing beach; fine Victorian architecture; and a lively night-life supported by many pubs, bars and night clubs. If you were planning a day trip or weekend excursion to this seaside town you might want to consult the busy summer calendar of special events that take place in the area.
Margate is a popular destination for those travelling by train as the station is opposite the beach and just a short walk from all the attractions.
The events listed here take place annually, the details are provided for the events in 2009. In addition, there is a brief list of more events which are more frequent in the summer and may be worth looking for.
Thanet Pride in Margate Sat 18 July
This is one of the smaller lesbian, gay and transgendered pride events in the U.K. Margate currently has a small but established gay scene. Thanet Pride is sponsored by local businesses, the Local District Council and others.
The Margate Big Event Sat 20 - Sun 21 June 10am
This free air show and festival with live bands, fair and children's entertainment has attracted thousands of people in previous years, so be prepared for traffic congestion. There is a free concert and firework display on Saturday night. The Big Event takes place in the Palm Bay area of Margate, which is just about as far east you can go along the Kent coast, except for Broadstairs.
Big Sky Jazz Festival at Margate Town Partnership Fri 24 - Sun 26 July
Expect Jazz events at the Piazza and venues around Margate. In previous years Margate Town Partnership have hosted an International Kite Festival (which will take place again on 19 - 20 September 2009) and a Quad Bike Event, there should be more of the same this year but details are yet to be announced.
Margate Carnival Soul Weekender Sat 1 - Sun 2 August
The carnival procession takes place on Sunday afternoon, from 3pm. If there is sunny weather this will turn into a big event for the weekend. The event takes place the length of the sea front at the main beach. If you arrive by train, just walk out the station and you are there.
Some events take place on a regular and frequent basis through the summer months.
Markets in the Margate Old Town
These take place on the last weekend of the month in June, July and August on Friday And Saturday.
Cliftonville Bandstand Concerts
Take place at the Cliftonville Bandstand, Sunday afternoons 14.30-16.30 from 7 June to 27 July
Cliftonville Farmers Market
Established in 2001 and a repeated winner of "Best Farmers Market In Kent" by Produces in Kent. It takes place on the last Sunday of the month, 10.00 - 13.00, at and around the Cliftonville Bandstand.
On a sunny weekend the Main Sands beach at Margate is usually busy. If you enjoy lively crowds and a party atmosphere then you may want to visit on a special event weekend. If you would prefer to avoid the crowds and inevitable traffic congestion again it will be worth checking the diary. If you are intending to spend more time in the area then it would be worth investigating other towns and villages on the Isle of Thanet including Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Birchington.
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