Spirit of Tenterden Festival
Friday 3 July - Sunday 5 July 2026
Friday 2pm-10pm; Saturday 10am-10pm; Sunday 11am-5pm
FREE ENTRY - Tenterden Recreation Ground
The Spirit of Tenterden Festival returns 3–5 July 2026! Get ready for three days of live music, food, drink, crafts and community on Tenterden Recreation Ground. This free, family-friendly festival is packed with entertainment for all ages - from local bands and creative craft stalls to free children’s activities, delicious street food, local food producers, real ale and a great selection of drinks. Organised by volunteers for the community, Spirit of Tenterden celebrates everything that makes our town special - its creativity, warmth, and community spirit.
Now in its sixth year, the festival continues to grow while staying true to its roots — bringing people together to enjoy great music, great food and great company. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time supporter, come along, meet friends old and new, and experience the true Spirit of Tenterden.
The weekend includes a vibrant mix of entertainment and attractions — from live performances on the main stage and street entertainers around the site to family fun, community displays, and a welcoming festival atmosphere. With something new to discover around every corner, it’s the perfect way to celebrate summer in Tenterden.
See the photos from the 2025 Spirit of Tenterden Festival ...
Spirit of Tenterden Festival 2025
MEET THE FESTIVAL TEAM
The event is run by local volunteers
Run by the community - for the community
Justin Nelson, event administration
admin@spiritoftenterden.co.uk
Sue Ferguson, event administration, website, social media & stallholders
Verne Sanderson, event administration. logistics & site manager, volunteers
Tara Willington-Mace - treasurer, event administration
Sarah Cleaton, bar, beer festival, dog show
Pat Sweeney, music/band organisation, music stage director
Barry Mell - arena co-ordinator
Liza Townsend, creative lead
Mary Brasington - fundraiser/sponsorship co-ordinator
Lindsay Hammond
Eileen Catt - tea tent
Bena Johnston - committee member
SPIRIT OF TENTERDEN FESTIVAL
Year by Year
2019 – 5–7 July 2019
The first Spirit of Tenterden Festival, launched as a brand-new community event on the Recreation Ground, celebrating music, food, drink and crafts.
2020
Cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021 – 17 July 2021
A Little Spirit – a smaller community celebration held at East Cross, keeping the festival spirit alive during uncertain times.
2022 – 1–3 July 2022
The festival made a triumphant return after two years away — with record crowds, fantastic music and a wonderful community atmosphere.
2023 – 30 June–2 July 2023
The third festival, introducing new attractions, an expanded food and drink area, and more space for families.
2024 – 5–7 July 2024
The fourth festival, featuring fantastic live acts, more local producers and a strong sense of community pride.
2025 – 4–6 July 2025
The fifth Spirit of Tenterden Festival, with more music, food, crafts and family fun than ever before.
2026 – 3–5 July 2026
The sixth Spirit of Tenterden Festival — planning now underway for another brilliant weekend celebrating the very best of music, food, crafts and community spirit.
Spirit of Tenterden Community Interest Company