September gently softens the summer crowds in Thanet, letting its raw, textured beauty shine through. Think chalky cliffs, gleaming seas, and the golden light bathing Margate, Ramsgate, and Broadstairs. It’s the perfect moment when the island’s creative pulse, artsy energy, and coastal tranquility align. Whether you're drawn by art installations, historic tours, or immersive nature walks, Thanet in September rewards every curious explorer.

Highlights: Events, Festivals & Experiences in Thanet This September

1. DIY Custom Upcycling Event – 13 September

• Where: Waste Will Save Us, The Centre, Margate
• Why It’s Special: A playful yet sustainable gathering where creativity meets craftsmanship.
• What to Expect: Guided by experts, participants will transform old textiles into practical items—think draught excluders or tote bags. Laughter, repurposing, and a sense of community make this more than a workshop—it’s a green-minded celebration.

2. Highlight Tour & Family Highlight Tour – “The Sunken Boat” – 12 & 13 September

• Where: Turner Contemporary, Margate
• Why It’s Special: An intimate conversation with art that reveals stories beyond the canvas.
• What to Expect: Dive into the history and hidden narratives behind "The Sunken Boat", with museum staff offering fresh insights. The family version includes hands-on storytelling and child-friendly discovery prompts to bring the artwork to life.

3. “Queen Bee” Floral Arrangements – 9 September

• Where: St Phillips Church, Palm Bay, Margate
• Why It’s Special: An elegant nod to autumn’s bloom in a peaceful, creative setting.
• What to Expect: Floral artists from the Margate Flower Club demonstrate and teach techniques using late-summer blooms. A serene, sensory treat for nature lovers and those with a taste for floral craft.

4. Jazz Jam Session – 9 September

• Where: Tom Thumb Theatre, Margate
• Why It’s Special: A monthly gathering where spontaneity and rhythm converge.
• What to Expect: Bring your instrument—or enjoy the improvisation of local and visiting musicians in a cozy, creative atmosphere. Whether you're participating or soaking it all in, it’s a soulful midweek pick-me-up.

5. Pugin Week – 10–14 September

• Where: Ramsgate
• Why It’s Special: A celebration of Augustus Pugin, the influential Gothic Revival architect.
• What to Expect: Guided tours, exhibitions, and talks spotlighting Pugin’s legacy—take in Sacred architecture, explore heritage sites, and learn why Ramsgate remains georgically embellished by his vision.

6. Babeslam Poetry Slam – 10 September

• Where: Where Else?, Margate
• Why It’s Special: A boundary-pushing celebration of spoken word and performance.
• What to Expect: Poets and performers deliver sharp, witty, and provocative pieces in a lively, open-mic arena. Bold voices and brave content define the evening.

7. Le Noise (Neil Young Tribute) – 11 September

• Where: Ramsgate Music Hall
• Why It’s Special: A heartfelt homage to one of rock’s great storytellers.
• What to Expect: Expect acoustic warmth and nostalgia as fans experience Neil Young’s catalog rendered with authenticity—emotive vocals, folk riffs, and memorable melodies.

8. Rave Culture UK – Jon Dasilva – 5 September

• Where: Ramsgate Music Hall, 9 pm–2 am
• Why It’s Special: A journey into legendary club culture, fronted by one of rave’s key influencers.
• What to Expect: Electronic and house music imbued with pulsing energy and underground authenticity. Expect a full-tilt night driven by DJs and dancing. Tickets around £15.

9. Ramsgate Festival of Sound – 12–14 September

• Where: Ramsgate town centre
• Why It’s Special: Art meets ear—you’ll hear architecture.
• What to Expect: Site-specific sound installations and acoustic sculptures punctuate outdoor spaces, creating immersive soundscapes that make the town itself the stage. Walking the “Sonic Trail of Acoustic Architecture” is an artistic communion with Thanet’s built heritage.

10. Guided Heritage Tours – 13–14 September (Heritage Open Days)

• Where: Margate & Ramsgate
• Why It’s Special: A rare chance to walk unseen corridors and glimpse architectural quirks.
• What to Expect:
  • Margate High Street & St John’s Church walking tours
  • Art Deco Adult Education Centre tour
  • Walpole Bay Hotel Museum and Napery Gallery visits
  • Holy Trinity Church organ recitals & exhibitions
    Each event reveals rich local history—and entrance is typically free.

11. The White Cliffs of Kingsgate Walk – 12 September, 9:30 am

• Where: Broadstairs coastline
• Why It’s Special: A geology and coastal heritage walk led by expert guide Richard Hubbard.
• What to Expect: Explore fossil-rich cliffs, understand coastal erosion, and walk amidst chalk and sea. Expect rough terrain and scientific insight—perfect for curious nature-lovers. Suggested donation £5–10.

Beyond the Events: Discover Thanet In Your Own Time

• Viking Coastal Trail Cycling & Walking Route
  A 25-mile scenic loop from Reculver to Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, and Pegwell Bay—immerse yourself in coastline, village charm, and history.
• Dreamland Margate
  Historic rides, nostalgic vibes, and mid-century seaside amusement—still open and atmospheric in September.
• Shell Grotto, Margate
  An enigmatic subterranean world of intricate shell mosaics. Explore this Grade I-listed marvel, a poetic blend of art, craftsmanship, and mystery.
• Botany Bay Beach, Broadstairs
  Iconic chalky cliffs and clear waters—still a prime spot for late-season swims, creative seaside walks, and surf sessions (lifeguards on duty until early September).

Conclusion & Where to Stay

September in Thanet is a layered discovery: part creative pulse, part coastal revelation, all woven with heritage and community. You may find yourself leaning into art trails one morning and walking wind-swept cliffs the next—this is a place that rewards curiosity.

For your stay, trust Pass the Keys – Dayna. Whether it's a quirky Margate flat, a cosy Ramsgate terrace, or a Broadstairs retreat, Dayna ensures guest-ready, locally-managed holiday lets—so you can unpack and embrace Thanet’s rhythm immediately.