Maidstone River Park Silver Celebration

About

Come and enjoy a celebratory event in Whatman Park, marking the 25th Anniversary of the Maidstone River Park in 2026.

Enjoy live entertainment on the Riverstage, including the Invicta Jazz Orchestra, Kent Soul Choir, Greenwood, Hilton Hall Dance Academy, Tow Rag (a pirate band!) and Jack Harrison, as well as a roving magician!

There will also be stalls and displays from local charities and organisations, and FREE face-painting for children.

Take part in Small Wonders
Get closer to nature! Join artists Lucy St. Smith and Tim Harrison to discover the remarkable creatures and flowers that are all around us. Share your experiences of nature, create your own Small Wonders nature guide and contribute to a new public artwork that will be installed permanently in the park, celebrating the amazing biodiversity of Whatman Park.

FREE family fun - bring a picnic and a blanket or chairs and enjoy the day

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FAQ's

Is the Maidstone River Park Silver Celebration free to attend?
Yes, the event is completely free to attend. 

Do I need to book in advance?
No. Simply come along on the day and enjoy the celebrations.

What time does the event take place?
The event runs from 2:00pm until 6:00pm on Saturday 18 July 2026.

Where is the event being held?
The celebration takes place in Whatman Park, St Peter's Street, Maidstone, alongside the River Medway.

What entertainment will there be?
Visitors can enjoy a programme of live entertainment on the Riverstage, including music, dance performances, a pirate band, a jazz orchestra, choir performances, and a roving magician throughout the afternoon.

Will there be activities for children?
Yes. This is a family-friendly event with entertainment suitable for all ages, including live performances and a roving magician.

Can I bring a picnic?
Yes. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic, along with a blanket or folding chairs, and enjoy an afternoon in the park.

Will there be food and drink available?
The event listing encourages visitors to bring a picnic. There will be an ice cream van and a coffee vendor offering hot and cold drinks. 

Will there be stalls?
Yes. Local charities and organisations connected with the River Medway and Maidstone River Park will be hosting stalls and displays.

Is the event suitable for all ages?
Absolutely. The Silver Celebration is designed as a community event for families, friends and visitors of all ages.

What happens if it rains?
Very unlikely in the current heatwave. As this is an outdoor event, visitors are advised to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. We recommend protective sunhats and clothing, suncream and plenty of water. Any significant changes to the event will be communicated by the organisers.

Can I bring my dog?
As the event is held in a public park, well-behaved dogs are generally welcome unless otherwise advised. Dogs should be kept on a lead around busy event areas. 

Is the event accessible?
Whatman Park has accessible pathways, and visitors requiring accessible parking or facilities should check with the organisers before attending. 

Where can I park?
Visitors can use Maidstone town centre car parks and walk to Whatman Park. Maidstone East Station Car Park offers long stay car parking and the Saturday daily rate is Daily Rate: £6.30. From there you can walk across the blue railway bridge footpath which exits at St. Peter's Street. Public transport and active travel are encouraged where possible. It is a 10 minute walk from Maidstone East Station to the park entrance or 3 minutes form Maidstone Barracks Station.

Can I cycle to the event?
Yes. Whatman Park is accessible via Maidstone's walking and cycling routes along the River Medway.

Are there toilets at the venue?
There are public toilets at the St. Peter Street entrance to the park. Additional event toilets are situated close to the main event area.

Is there seating?
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own folding chairs or picnic blankets.

Can I bring a gazebo?
Gazebos and tents are not permitted but you may bring an umbrella or parasol for shade cover. 

What is Maidstone River Park?
Maidstone River Park is a series of connected riverside parks and green spaces following the River Medway through Maidstone. The Silver Celebration marks its 25th anniversary.