The Summer Weekender is coming to the Green off Fort Promenade, right outside the Winter Gardens, on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd August.
Saturday is an all-day party with DJs, sax, drinks and food stalls. It's the perfect spot to spend the day with friends soaking up the summer sun in Margate. On Sunday, it's a day for the whole family with performances, craft workshops, a toys and books area and inflatables (paid for).
Event Information & Entry
When and where is the event?
The event will take place on the outdoor green at Margate Winter Gardens, Fort Crescent, Margate, Kent.
Is the event free to attend?
The event is free to attend with all entertainment and workshops included. There will be children's inflatables on Sunday 23rd in which will be an additional charge.
Where is the entrance?
The main public entrance will be clearly signposted on arrival. Please follow event signage and instructions from our team.
Can I leave and come back?
For free daytime events, you are welcome to come and go throughout the day.
Weather & Outdoor Site
What happens if it rains?
This is an outdoor event, and the Great British weather can be unpredictable. Events will continue in light rain where it is safe to do so, so please dress appropriately for the conditions.
In the event of severe weather or conditions that make the site unsafe, we may need to delay, amend or cancel parts of the programme. Any important updates will be shared through our official social media channels.
Is there shelter?
There will be limited shelter available, so please come prepared for the weather. On hot days we recommend bringing sun cream, a hat and plenty of water.
Can I bring a chair or picnic blanket?
Yes, you are welcome to bring picnic blankets and small low-back camping chairs for appropriate areas of the event. Please be considerate of other visitors and follow instructions from our event team regarding where chairs can be positioned. Please note, there will be a limited amount of seating available.
Food, Drink & Facilities
Will there be food and drink available?
Yes. There will be a selection of food and drink available throughout the event, including bars and food. Options may vary depending on the day.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
You are welcome to bring your own food and soft drinks for personal consumption. Glass bottles and glass containers are not permitted anywhere on the event site.
Alcohol purchased outside of the event cannot be brought onto the site.
Will there be vegetarian and vegan options?
Yes, we will aim to have a range of food options available, including vegetarian and vegan choices. Please speak directly to individual traders regarding allergens and dietary requirements.
Will drinking water be available?
Drinking water will be available on site. We encourage visitors to stay hydrated, particularly during warmer weather.
Are there toilets?
Yes. Toilet facilities, including accessible toilets, will be available for visitors. These will be clearly signposted throughout the event.
Families & Children
Is the event suitable for children?
Yes. The Winter Gardens outdoor event is designed to be family friendly, with entertainment and activities taking place throughout the programme.
Some individual performances or evening events may have their own age restrictions, so please check the specific event listing.
Do children need to be accompanied by an adult?
Yes. Children must remain under the supervision of a responsible adult while attending the event.
Dogs
Are dogs allowed?
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the outdoor event area but must be kept on a lead at all times.
Owners are responsible for their dogs and must clean up after them. We also ask owners to consider whether busy crowds, loud music and warm weather are suitable for their dog before bringing them along.
Assistance dogs are welcome.
Security & Prohibited Items
Will there be security at the event?
Yes. Security and event staff will be on site throughout the event. Bag checks may be carried out on entry or at any point where required.
What can't I bring into the event?
For everyone's safety, the following items are not permitted:
• Glass bottles or containers
• Alcohol purchased outside the event
• Illegal substances
• Fireworks, flares or pyrotechnics
• Weapons or items that could be considered dangerous
• Large sound systems or speakers
• BBQs, camping stoves or open flames
• Large gazebos or structures unless authorised by the organisers
• Any item our security team considers unsafe
The event organisers and security team reserve the right to refuse entry or remove prohibited items where necessary.
Travel & Parking
How do I get to Margate Winter Gardens?
The event is located at Margate Winter Gardens, Fort Crescent, Margate, within walking distance of Margate town centre and the seafront.
We recommend using public transport or walking where possible, particularly during busy event days.
Is there parking at the event?
There is no dedicated public event parking on the Winter Gardens site.
Visitors will need to use surrounding public car parks or available street parking. Please allow additional time to find parking, particularly during busy periods.
Can I be dropped off outside the event?
Please do not stop or drop passengers off on double yellow lines or in restricted areas surrounding the site. This is important to keep access clear for emergency and event vehicles.
Accessibility
Is the event wheelchair accessible?
Yes. We want the outdoor event to be as accessible as possible. The main event areas will have step-free access, although please be aware that this is an outdoor grass site and ground conditions can vary depending on the weather.
Are accessible toilets available?
Yes, accessible toilet facilities will be available on site.
I have specific access requirements. Who should I contact?
If you have specific accessibility requirements or would like to discuss your visit before attending, please contact the Winter Gardens team in advance and we will do our best to assist.
General Information
Can I bring a gazebo or large umbrella?
Personal gazebos, tents and other large structures are not permitted unless agreed in advance with the event organisers. Small personal umbrellas are permitted but may need to be lowered in busy viewing areas.
Can I smoke or vape?
Smoking on site is strictly prohibited. Vaping is allowed but please be mindful of others.
Will photographs and videos be taken?
Photography and filming may take place throughout the event for promotional and marketing purposes. If you have any concerns, please speak to a member of the event team on the day.
Who should I speak to if I need help?
Members of the Winter Gardens event team and security will be clearly identifiable throughout the site. If you need assistance at any point, please speak to a member of the team at the box office/information stall.