The Light Up Maidstone Parade, brought to you by One Maidstone BID and supported by Maidstone Borough Council, will take place on Friday 6 February, filling the Town Centre from 5.30 to 7.30pm. The parade will feature illuminated performances, community groups, dancers and artists in a vibrant celebration for all ages.
Following the parade, the evening will culminate in a lively finale event in Jubilee Square, hosted by KMFM presenters Rob and Numi. The finale will feature music, dance and live entertainment, bringing the celebrations to a close at 7.30pm.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy the Lantern Trail, running from 10–28 February. The trail features 10 illuminated lantern displays located across key venues and public spaces throughout Maidstone Town Centre. The Lantern Trail is brought to you by One Maidstone BID, sponsored by Choice Carpets, and supported by The Arts Society Mid Kent. The self-guided trail encourages residents and visitors to explore the town, enjoy the creative lanterns, and discover local landmarks and businesses.
Alongside the festival, February’s Month of Wellbeing, brought to you by One Maidstone BID, will showcase a wide range of wellbeing activities taking place throughout the month. Working with local charities, partners, community organisations and businesses, the programme highlights the support, services and activities available across Maidstone.
Most wellbeing events are free to attend, with activities including exercise sessions, coffee and chat meet-ups, drop-ins, workshops, music and creative activities. Some activities also run regularly throughout the year. A full calendar of events will be available online, allowing people to find activities that suit them.
Michelle Woodland, CEO One Maidstone BID said: “Light Up Maidstone is about bringing people together, celebrating creativity and encouraging people to enjoy everything Maidstone has to offer. By combining the festival with February’s Month of Wellbeing, we’re also shining a light on the fantastic charities, organisations and businesses working across the town to support wellbeing.”
Councillor Stephen Thompson, Cabinet Member for Healthier Stronger Communities at Maidstone Borough Council, said:“Light Up Maidstone is a wonderful celebration of creativity, community and togetherness. Events like this bring real vibrancy to our town centre, offering moments of joy and connection during the winter months. I’m delighted to see so many local groups, artists and partners coming together once again to create something special for residents and visitors of all ages. I’d encourage everyone to come along, take part in the lantern trail, enjoy the parade and explore the wellbeing activities throughout February, it’s a fantastic reminder of the community spirit that makes Maidstone such a great place to live.”
Residents and visitors are encouraged to come along to the parade, enjoy the finale event, follow the lantern trail throughout February, and take part in the Month of Wellbeing activities.
For the full calendar of events and updates, follow One Maidstone BID on social media or visit the website.
About One Maidstone BID One Maidstone BID is dedicated to enhancing the town centre experience for residents, businesses, and visitors. Through various initiatives and events, One Maidstone BID aims to create a vibrant, welcoming, and prosperous community.