
If you’re looking for one of the best summer events in Margate for 2026, the Margate Country Music Festival is returning to The Oval Bandstand & Lawns for its third year and it promises to be bigger than ever.
Taking place on Saturday 11 July 2026 from 12pm–6pm, Margate Country Music Festival brings together live country music, line dancing, food, drinks and festival atmosphere in one of Kent’s most unique seaside locations.
Set against the backdrop of the coast at The Oval Bandstand & Lawns in Cliftonville, this much-loved event has become known as “Country By The Sea” and continues to attract visitors from across Kent and beyond.
Why Margate Country Music Festival Has Become One of Margate’s Must-Visit Events
Over the last three years, Margate Country Music Festival has grown into one of the standout live music events in Margate, combining a relaxed seaside atmosphere with high-energy entertainment and country culture.
Hosted at The Oval Bandstand & Lawns, a community-run outdoor venue that welcomes more than 20,000 visitors annually, the festival offers something different from traditional music events — country music by the sea.
Expect:
• Live country music performances
• Interactive line dancing sessions
• DJs playing country favourites throughout the day
• Bar and cocktails
• Family-friendly entertainment
• Festival competitions and activities
• A welcoming outdoor festival atmosphere
Who Is Performing at Margate Country Music Festival 2026?

This year’s festival line-up features artists from across the UK country scene:
Two Ways Home
Award-winning UK country/Americana duo Two Ways Home bring rich harmonies, modern country influences and Nashville-inspired songwriting. Known across the UK country scene, they are one of the festival’s headline performances.

Ren Jackson
Kent-based country singer-songwriter Ren Jackson brings powerful vocals and contemporary country sounds to Margate, adding a strong regional connection to this year’s line-up.

Buckle N Boots
Returning after a crowd-favourite appearance in 2025, Buckle N Boots bring huge energy and modern country vibes back to The Oval.
Throughout the day DJ TBX will keep the festival atmosphere going, while Conor from Line ’Em Up will get visitors dancing with interactive line dancing sessions suitable for beginners and experienced dancers alike.
Why The Oval Bandstand Is the Perfect Venue
Located on Eastern Esplanade in Cliftonville, The Oval Bandstand & Lawns has become one of Margate’s growing outdoor event spaces, hosting music festivals, cinema events, family activities and community celebrations throughout the year.
The combination of open green space, sea views and community atmosphere makes it the perfect setting for a country music festival in Kent.
Event Information
Margate Country Music Festival 2026
Saturday 11 July 2026
12pm–6pm
The Oval Bandstand & Lawns
Eastern Esplanade
Cliftonville
Margate
CT9 2HL
Whether you are a country music fan, love live music events in Kent or simply want a fantastic summer day out by the sea, Margate Country Music Festival 2026 promises an unforgettable day.
Grab your boots, bring your friends and join us for Country By The Sea.
