Create Music Village
Create Music Village is back again for its second outing this year. Revelation, Coachworks, Ashford Picture House, and the Low Key Taproom are teaming up with other local hotspots to throw the ultimate music extravaganza! It's a whole month of non-stop musical bliss in October and, as well as the music venues, there’s a fringe programme including workshops and livestreams.
Canterbury Festival
Another classic event for this time of the year is the Canterbury Festival with events taking place until 4th November including music, performance, talks, family events, science and more. One event that particularly caught my eye is the Augmented Reality Art Trail. The creative wizards from Canterbury Christ Church University's Digital Media programme have developed a mind-bending journey through the past and future of Canterbury, all through the magic of augmented reality (AR) and you can see artworks scattered throughout the city.
An alternative family friendly event is intriguingly called Les Enfants Terribles – A Gameshow For Awful Children, an uproarious interactive game show. Kids step into the roles of troublemakers and statesmen as they compete for the title of the ultimate mischievous maven. It's a whirlwind of antics and absurdity as kids embrace their inner chaos-makers.
Made in Ashford
If you prefer to stay inside when it’s cold outside, Made In Ashford are hosting some great workshops over the coming months including an autumn wreath printing workshop on the 25th October between 1 – 2 pm.
Halloween
I’ve noticed that there seem to be more Halloween-themed events being planned compared to previous years. The Rare Breeds Centre near Tenterden, is hosting events every single day throughout the October half term including Gunky ghost tales, the Pumpkin World Trail and a show about the fearless vampire hunters.
In Ashford, there’s a half term morning Halloween fun session at the Singleton Environmental Centre Eventbrite , and a delicious Scream Tea will be served at the Willsborough Windmill.
Leeds Castle
Halloween at Leeds Castle, near Maidstone, is the venue for an immersive quest for young adventurers to become spell seekers. As they set off on their journey, they'll receive a unique quest sheet for their exploration of the vast castle grounds. Along the way, they’ll meet some special characters who will help them on their quest. This experience is included in the admission price to the grounds.
If you’re looking for a family day out which involves great pub grub, then the Five Bells in Brabourne is the one. Their burgers, both meat and veggie are the best I’ve tasted in the area. On Sunday the 29th October their outside potting shed is being transformed into a Halloween activities centre for kids.
New openings in Ashford
Ashford has recently gained a couple of new businesses in the town centre which I’m excited to mention as they will be popular in the winter months.
Little Land, a role play centre for children up to six years old has opened in the Park Mall shopping centre offering scaled down themed rooms carefully designed and filled with props to offer a creative and educational experience. There’s also a small sensory garden for little babies and non-walkers where they can lay or sit down and play with a selection of toys suitable for their age. They also offer a café for parents/carers.
Next to Matches in Elwick Place, VRec has opened. It’s a VR gaming centre, using immersive state-of-the-art technology suitable for adults and children. As well as VR gaming booths for single players, there will be a free roaming area for interactive multiplayer game play.
It seems there’s lots being planned for Ashford and the surrounding areas. It’s lovely to see.
