What’s on in Canterbury

(Image courtesy of University of Kent)

22nd June 2021

By Elle Summers

As the summer weather has come to Canterbury and lockdown restrictions begin to lift, we can all begin to look forward to the exciting opportunities available to us this summer.

With the arts having been put on pause for over a year now, we must do our bit to support those whose livelihoods have been on hold throughout the pandemic. In doing so, we are provided with the perfect opportunity to meet up with loved ones in a safe manner for a selection of different entertainment opportunities.

This summer, Canterbury will not disappoint. From stand-up performances to musicals to festivals, if you’re staying in Canterbury for the foreseeable future, you will definitely find something to enjoy.

What's on Canterbury Campus

If you’re spending the remainder of the summer term on campus, here are some activities right on your doorstep for you to enjoy:

Around campus, some of the bars are back up and running! Amongst a plethora of options Woody’s is hosting a cocktail night on the 21 June but be sure to check out their website for all the activities they offer.

A week we have all been waiting for! From the 21 June to the 2 July, Kent Summer Fest will be kicking off on campus. Although many tickets have already sold out, due to the popularity of this event, I’m sure some students may be looking to sell their tickets so there is still plenty of time to get involved.

Following Boris Johnson’s latest announcement, Venue will finally be opening its doors this academic year with socially distanced events running for eight sessions from 23 to the 26 June, following all the existing COVID guidance yet still providing students with the classic Venue night out!

What's on in Canterbury

If you fancy venturing into town to appreciate entertainment, here are a few things happening at the Marlowe:

The Marlowe Theatre reopened its doors on the 8 June, kicking off summer by bringing the musical SIX to Canterbury.

On the 4 July, comedian, and Mock the Week regular, Rhys James will be gracing the Canterbury stage with his tour Snitch.

Between the 13 and the 18 July, The Play that Goes Wrong will provide humorous nights at the Marlowe.

Between the 20 and the 24 July, you will have the opportunity to see Andrew Lloyd Webber and Don Black’s classic musical Tell Me on a Sunday.

On the 6th and 7th of August, dance legend Carlos Acosta brings his new work On Before to the Marlowe stage.

And if your summer takes you exploring outside of Canterbury, some other events that might interest you include:

Summer in Barham begins on the 3 July with BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Finalists.

Located in Dane John Gardens on the 28 August, the free Music Festival CPS In the Park 2021 will be running.

Canterbury is pulling out all the stops as lockdown restrictions ease even further, bringing the arts sector back with a bang this summer!

If you get involved with any of the activities listed here or if you know of other great events taking place this summer, please get in touch with us in the comments below or on our social media, we would love to hear your experiences!