OMD, The Proclaimers and Blur’s Alex James: Six must-see music events coming to Kent in July

If you’re looking to add a little live music to your summer plans, you’re in luck.

From Britpop classics on the coast to independent festivals in the Kent countryside, there are plenty of events just around the corner that are worth marking in your diary…

ALEX JAMES’ BRITPOP CLASSICAL

Blur bassist Alex James brings his acclaimed Britpop Classical show to Dreamland’s Scenic Stage, combining some of the biggest songs of the 1990s with the power of a full orchestra. Expect iconic tracks from Blur, Oasis, Pulp, Supergrass and more, reworked for a unique live experience that blends festival energy with classical grandeur.

Details: On Friday, July 24 at Dreamland in Margate, with doors opening at 5.30pm. General admission is £52.90.

BLUE REEF FESTIVAL

Set in the Kent countryside, Blue Reef Festival has built a reputation for mixing established names with up-and-coming talent in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Friday’s line-up includes Inspiral Carpets, EMF, Sleeper and Gomez frontman Ben Ottewell, while Saturday sees Stereo MC’s and Kula Shaker top the bill. Five stages, workshops, food stalls and activities for all ages make it much more than just a music festival.

Details: On Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25 at Loddington Farm in Linton, near Maidstone. Adult weekend tickets are £155, with day passes ranging from £70 to £90. Children under seven go free.

OMD

Synth-pop legends OMD arrive at the coast for an evening packed with hits from a career spanning more than four decades. Fans can look forward to favourites including Enola Gay, Maid of Orleans and If You Leave. The outdoor show also features special guests Tom Bailey of Thompson Twins, Peter Hook & The Light and rising singer-songwriter Andrew Cushin.

Details: On Saturday, July 25 at Dreamland in Margate, with doors opening at 5pm. General admission is £57.94.

ROCK THE MOTE

One of the county’s biggest tribute music festivals returns to Mote Park for a three-day celebration of some of the world’s best-loved artists. Fans can enjoy performances that recreate the music of Taylor Swift, Oasis, Queen, Coldplay, Elton John, Michael Jackson and many more. Alongside the tunes, there will be street food, fairground rides, family entertainment and plenty of opportunities to soak up the festival atmosphere.

Details: From Friday, July 24 to Sunday, July 26 at Mote Park in Maidstone. Adult weekend tickets are £61.60, with day passes ranging from £16.24 to £38.64. Children under five go free.

THE PROCLAIMERS

Few bands can get a crowd singing along quite like The Proclaimers. The Scottish twins, Craig and Charlie Reid, return to Canterbury with their trademark blend of folk, pop and rock. Alongside beloved hits such as I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles), Sunshine on Leith and Letter from America, audiences can also expect songs from the duo’s more recent releases.

Details: On Sunday, July 26 at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury, the performance starts at 7.30pm. General admission is £70.

CHICKENSTOCK MUSIC FESTIVAL

A firm favourite on the county’s festival calendar, Chickenstock returns for four days of live music, camping and community spirit. The independent event showcases a mix of established performers and emerging artists, with this year’s line-up featuring Buster Shuffle, Will Varley, Noble Jacks, Rusty Shackle and Ian Prowse & The Amsterdam. With multiple stages, food vendors and a welcoming grassroots feel, it remains one of the most charming boutique festivals in the South East.

Details: From Thursday, July 30 to Sunday, August 2 at Norton Green Farm in Stockbury, near Sittingbourne. Adult weekend tickets are £135, with day passes ranging from £30 to £50. Children under 10 go free.