Whitstable’s event calendar runs the full year — from the September Oyster Festival and the Castle’s May Day celebrations to the August Carnival, live music at the Old Neptune, family markets, Playhouse theatre and Horsebridge exhibitions. Browse upcoming events below, or explore the town’s wider attractions, pubs and venues for inspiration. Whitstable Carnival came through the town on 1 August. See the photos from Whitstable Carnival 2026 — just under a hundred of them, free to look through and share.
What’s on in Whitstable
A free weekly email — the week’s events, plus the odd story and a bit of local history.
Many of Whitstable’s events are run by local clubs, charities and venues that depend on community support — from the Lions Club’s May Day parade to the Oyster Festival’s volunteer crew and the Carnival Association’s year of planning for one afternoon in August. Live music runs from micro pub gigs to the Old Neptune, and the Castle hosts seasonal markets. For families, beach events, half-term workshops and outdoor screenings keep the calendar going well beyond the summer peak.
Running an event in Whitstable? Get in touch — event listings are included with a Premium business listing.