December in Tonbridge is a busy month, with plenty going on to get you into the festive spirit. From markets and concerts to creative workshops and community events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy before the year comes to an end.
Here are 17 events not to miss in Tonbridge this December.
1. Tonbridge Christmas Fest at Tonbridge Castle (12 – 23 Dec)
From 12 until 23 December, I’m heading down to Tonbridge Castle where the grounds transform into a festive market village with over 30 stalls, a food village of seasonal treats, a dazzling light-tunnel, a parade of Christmas trees, fairground rides and live entertainment.
It’s free to enter (although there will be a few ticketed events in the evenings). A perfect festive night out.
2. Christmas Reset Yoga Workshop (28 December)
Take a moment to pause after Christmas and reset before the New Year at this special 90 minute yoga workshop. Led by local instructor Emma (from Game Changer Yoga), the session focuses on gentle movement, mindful breathing, yin yoga poses and restorative postures designed to ease tension and create space for calm reflection before heading into 2026. Expect soothing music, lighting and a peaceful atmosphere — a perfect antidote to December’s bustle.
You can contact Emma via her website – Game Changer Yoga – Change your game with yoga. or book directly your place with Eventbrite. Space is limited, so book in early to avoid missing out.
3. Dandelion Time’s Candlelit Christmas (17 Dec)
On 17 December at the Chapel of St Augustine (in Tonbridge School) you’ll find an evening of festive music and readings in aid of the charity Dandelion Time.
The mulled wine and mince pies afterwards make it both uplifting and cosy.
4. Hospice in the Weald Carols at Christmas (21 Dec)
On 21 December at the Tonbridge School Chapel, the hospice charity HITW hosts a carol service for all ages. The concert features Royal Tunbridge Wells Orpheus Male Voice Choir and classical crossover soprano Olivia Grace Piper. It sounds super festive and cosy. And of course, for a good cause.
5. Paint Night – ‘Christmas Special’ (11 Dec)
On 11 December at The Maid of Kent in Tonbridge, this creative evening invites you to paint Christmas “gonks”, enjoy a mince-pie, and get into that festive spirit.
A fun pre-festive catch-up that’s low-key but playful. These paint nights are super popular, so book early if you want to attend.
6. ComiCon & Toy Fair Tonbridge (7 Dec)
Early in the month (7 December), the Angel Centre (Tonbridge) hosts a pop-culture ComiCon and toy-fair event. Great for a different kind of outing — whether you’re a fan yourself or going with someone who is. The event runs from 10:00 to 16:00 and will also include retro board games, card playing and face painting.
7. Tonbridge Farmers’ Market – December Edition (14 December)
The December edition of the usual farmers’ market in Tonbridge offers extra seasonal produce, gift items and local flavour. I’ll go early in the morning to avoid the rush and pick up some cheese for the Christmas Day cheeseboard. Stalls are open from 09:30 to 13:30.
8. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe at The Oast Theatre (12 – 20 December)
A family-friendly show running in early December at the Oast Theatre (just outside Tonbridge). A good pick if you want something theatrical, magical and accessible.
9. National Theatre Live: The Fifth Step at EM Forster Theatre (4 Dec)
On 4 December at the EM Forster Theatre, there’s a screening of the NT Live production The Fifth Step. It’s a more grown-up outing, good for a quieter, thoughtful evening.
10. Advent Concert Nights at the Opera (5 Dec)
Also at the EM Forster Theatre/Tonbridge School venue on 5 December, this musical evening offers seasonal concert fare in a refined setting. Tickets are free, so you can perhaps justify a nice glass of something afterwards.
Expect “School Orchestra, Junior Strings, Concert Band and Percussion Ensemble present a varied programme, featuring operatic highlights from Purcell, Mascagni and Gershwin.”
11. Jack & the Beanstalk Pantomime (12 Dec – 3 Jan)
You don’t need to leave Tonbridge for panto this year. From 12 December through into January at the EM Forster Theatre you’ll find this festive panto — perfect for family or friends.
12. Tonbridge Park Run Christmas Special (20 and 27 Dec)
We are regular Park Run goers, but we always enjoy the events just before and after Christmas the most. There’s always so much cheer in the air, and you can feel a little smug if you make it on the 27th. Don’t forget your santa hat!
13. Christmas Special Music Events (12 & 13 Dec) at The Maid of Kent
On 12 and 13 December, The Maid of Kent is hosting two special Christmas music events. On the Friday, is Sonny & The Harp. Then The Saturday will feature singer Jean Paul.
14. Christmas Wreath Workshop at Tonbridge Old Fire Station (8 & 17 Dec)
On 8, 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17th December (!), join Rhoxan Hayes Flowers at Tonbridge Old Fire Station to create your own bespoke wreath. Tickets from around £66. It’s a hands-on, relaxed workshop — I’m planning to secure my place, I cannot resist Christmas wreath making.
If you miss out on this one, you can find our guide to the best wreath making classes locally.
15. Tonbridge Philharmonic Society Christmas Carols – Family Carols (14 December)
Get into the festive spirit with the Tonbridge Philharmonic Society’s Family Carols. A mix of traditional carols and seasonal favourites, this performance is perfect for all ages. The Chapel of St Augustine provides a beautiful, atmospheric setting, and the evening promises music, community, and plenty of Christmas cheer. A lovely outing for families looking to enjoy live music together.
16. Dining at The View Restaurant – North Kent College, Tonbridge (various December dates)
Dates: Thursday 4th December & Thursday 11th December 2025 (Christmas Menus) – lunch slots also available on Thursdays and Fridays throughout December.
Enjoy a festive evening at The View Restaurant, run by North Kent College catering students under professional supervision. With seasonal menus (which offer a bargain at £18.95 for three courses), great views, and attentive service, it’s a relaxed way to celebrate the season. Booking is essential.
17. Santa Paddles on the River Medway
Tonbridge’s festive cheer spills onto the river this year with two Santa SUP paddles you won’t want to miss. On 6th December, join SUP with Ana for a magical Santa Paddle gliding along the Medway in your finest Santa suit or festive jumper—twinkling lights and plenty of seasonal giggles guaranteed. Then on 7th December, Epic Life takes to the water for their Santa paddle followed by a cosy brunch, the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.
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