The picturesque Isle of Thanet—encompassing Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, Birchington and their coastlines—comes alive in August. Not only is it named one of the world’s top 30 destinations this summer, but it also buzzes with eclectic events suited for every taste: from food and film to live music, heritage trails, and family fun. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending the month exploring, this guide unlocks the best what’s on in Thanet in August 2025. Additionally, Pass the Keys can help homeowners make the most of short-let opportunities during this vibrant season.

Family Fun & Theatre in Broadstairs (1–10 August)

Where: Palm Bay Green & Pierremont Hall
First, M&L Benson’s Pleasure Fair runs from 1–10 August on Palm Bay Green. With simple token pricing, rides, midway games, and half‑price days on 4th and 6th, it's ideal for families. Consequently, it creates a low-cost way to enjoy seaside fun.

Meanwhile, on 1 August, broadside local theatre group brings Three Men in a Boat to Pierremont Hall. This outdoor comedic adaptation invites audiences to picnic and laugh together, with licensed drinks—and includes an indoor backup if the weather shifts.

Margate Highlights: Pride, Art & Carnival (Early–Mid August)

Where: Margate, Dreamland & Old Town
Margate Carnival on 4 August begins a colourful parade from Palm Bay, winding through the Esplanade to Westbrook via galleries and entertainment. This visual spectacle is followed by festivities at Dreamland and around town.

Margate Pride, held on 10 August, features daytime events at Dreamland’s Scenic Stage—starting with a parade at Walpole Bay Lawns, continuing with stalls, DJs, and speakers—and culminating in the famed Drag Party including DJs like Jodie Harsh and performers such as Bimini and Raven Mandella. Youth-focused events run concurrently in Hall By The Sea.

Additionally, from 8–12 August at the Pie Factory, ‘From Sea to Sky’ by NKTaylor showcases vibrant artwork inspired by Thanet’s coast, available to browse and purchase.

Theatre, Fairs & Monster Shows (11–16 August)

Later in the month, Monster Slam hits Quex Park on 11 August. This adrenaline-pumping event features monster trucks like Big Pete and The Grim Reaper, stunt teams, inflatable fun, face-painting, live shows, and a licensed bar—though some activities are optional and ticketed.

On 17 & 24 August, Broadstairs fireworks light up Viking Bay. Starting at around 6 pm, events at the bandstand precede around 9:45 pm fireworks, with live music acts such as The Dial and Ozzie & the Uglies providing entertainment beforehand.

Festivals & Creative Highlights Toward Month-End (20–31 August)

Contra Pop Festival, Ramsgate (20–21 August)

An experimental and genre-bending music festival held on Ramsgate Sands, Contra Pop showcases free performances by DJs and emerging artists in a beachside setting—perfect for adventurous listeners.

Broadstairs Folk Week (9–16 August)

Folk lovers can enjoy a rich line-up of bands, ceilidhs, workshops, and sessions in Broadstairs venues. The festival offers both traditional and contemporary folk sounds, alongside community dancing and singing.

Ramsgate Festival of Sound & Sonic Trail (26 August onward)

This long-running festival mixes immersive sound installations, theatre, circus acts, drag, and live music across Ramsgate’s Ellington Park and town trails. Notable highlights include Screaming Alley Cabaret: La Isla Thaneta and the town-wide Sonic Trail featuring site-specific audio art.

White Cliffs Walking Festival (25–30 August)

Nature enthusiasts can join over 30 guided walks celebrating East Kent’s heritage coast, from Margate to Stodmarsh, as well as the Dickens & Turner Trail through Cliftonville and Broadstairs. Most walks are free, with donations welcomed.

Thanet Open Studios & Arts Trail (27–28 August)

This weekend sees local artists and makers opening their studios, galleries, and homes to the public. Visitors can purchase work directly from creators including ceramists, textile artists, painters, and sculptors across Broadstairs, Ramsgate, Margate, and Westgate.

Kent Country Show & Festival of Dogs, Quex Park (28–29 August)

Kids and pet lovers alike will enjoy displays of falconry, gundogs, heavy horses, pet shows, cooking demos, steam exhibitions, motorbike stunts, and family workshops. A fun and varied festival with broad appeal.

Can't-Miss Coastal Adventures

Seashore Safaris with Thanet Coast Project

Throughout August, families can join guided rockpool walks at locations like Minnis Bay, Westgate, Margate Main Sands, and Ramsgate’s Eastcliff. Led by Thanet Coast volunteers, these two-hour safaris introduce children (especially ages 4–11) to marine creatures and coastal ecology. Donations are requested.

Open-Top Bus Tour – Stagecoach Route 69

Until mid-September, the new scenic pink Route 69 connects Ramsgate, Broadstairs, Margate and Minnis Bay. With fares from £2.50 and day passes available, it's a laid-back way to enjoy Bayside views and hop between towns.

Cycle or Walk the Viking Coastal Trail

This 25-mile National Cycle Network route circles the Isle of Thanet—touching Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, Pegwell Bay, and Reculver. Whether walking or cycling, you’ll enjoy coastlines, parks, and historic landmarks. It’s perfect for flexible, self-guided outdoor adventure.

Conclusion: Experience August in Thanet with Pass the Keys

In summary, August across Thanet is brimming with variety—from borderless festivals and food fairs to outdoor theatre and eco-adventures. Whether you’re drawn to seaside sparkle, artisan creativity, or rhythm-driven nightlife, this coastal region delivers. According to Condé Nast, Thanet is among the top global destinations this summer, making it the ideal time to visit—and potentially to host guests.

If you own a property in Thanet and want to make the most of high demand in August, Pass the Keys can streamline every step: from listing creation and guest screening to cleaning and support. Meanwhile, if you're visiting, our managed holiday homes offer local charm and comfort in all corners of Thanet.

Pass the Keys Thanet—partnered locally with Dayna and Sofia —can help you unlock fantastic experiences this August, whether you’re hosting or exploring. Let me know if you'd like this blog tailored into PDF, social media content, or event listings!