The kids are back in school, the days are getting shorter, and the Ramsgate Winter Festival is gearing up to bring sparkle to our town on those dark winter nights.
This year the theme is spark, gather, grow, with a full two month programme of events, spectacle, parades, workshops, classes, art installations and performances - many of which are free - to inspire and spread joy in the darkest months.
The Festival starts with the town centre Christmas Lights Switch On on 29 November and Let There Be Light in St George’s Church.
Much loved community celebration Advent Doors will run from 1 - 24 December with residents and businesses gathering to raise funds for a nominated local charity (TBC), and the harbour will begin to glow as the Ramsgate Boat Illuminations come to life.
The iconic Weekend of Wonder returns on 11 - 13 December with roaming projected creatures, late night shopping, the Christmas Tree Festival at St George’s Church, special events at Ramsgate Tunnels and more to be announced. The Weekend of Wonder also sees the launch of Light Up Ramsgate, running to the end of January, with businesses lending their windows to community groups and artists.
Admire the trees in St George’s Church while enjoying live music: Christmas Baroque on 17 December and Another Soulful Winter’s Night on 18 December.
Join in the festivities on New Year’s Eve as the now traditional parade makes its way from St George’s Church to the Ramsgate Tunnels, lit with bespoke projections for the occasion.
The Festival continues into January bringing positive intention and mindfulness into the New Year with events, classes and workshops around town, starting with the famous New Year’s Day Dip on the main sands.
The programme will grow as local organisations and venues sign up, with the full line up to be announced in November.
Click here For full event listings and updates
