A Summer of Unforgettable Events at The Pantiles
16th September 2024
16th September 2024
As summer draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the spectacular events that made this season truly unforgettable at The Pantiles. From the soulful strains of live music to vibrant food festivals, bustling markets and lively cultural celebrations, The Pantiles has been the epicentre of summertime fun in Tunbridge Wells.
One of the highlights of our summer was the exhilarating Thursday night Live at The Pantiles series. Each week, the bandstand came alive with soulful melodies and electrifying performances, attracting a diverse audience from across the region. This year, we were graced by a remarkable lineup of talent, including The Swinging Little Big Band, Dino & Darby, Dave Ital, The Sue Rivers Quintet and Blues Brothers Little Brother. Their performances not only provided exceptional entertainment but also transformed Thursday nights into a must-visit event, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and high-quality music.
Soul Train returned to The Pantiles bandstand this summer, bringing with it a soundtrack of timeless dancefloor classics. With performances in June, July, and August, this popular event delivered high-energy, interactive experiences that got everyone on their feet. The Soul Train evenings were a celebration of pop, rock ‘n’ roll, soul, funk and disco, creating an atmosphere that was both nostalgic and fun. It was a summer highlight that saw thousands of visitors tapping their toes!
Food enthusiasts had plenty to celebrate this summer with our two major food festivals: Sankey’s Feast & Fizz Festival in May and the Summer Feastival in August. These events turned The Pantiles into a bustling culinary hub, offering an impressive range of seasonal delicacies and gourmet experiences. From luxury burgers and loaded fries to Greek BBQ and scrumptious seafood, there was something to satisfy every palate. Our collaboration with Sankey’s brought a variety of flavours to the fore, while cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, facilitated by Great British Kitchens & Interiors, added an extra layer of excitement for food lovers.
The month of May saw The Pantiles come alive with the vibrant energy of Cuba Libre. This two-day celebration infused Latin American flair into our summer lineup, featuring an irresistible blend of music, exotic cocktails and mouth-watering cuisine. The event was a lively homage to the spirit of our Gin & Jazz Festival, offering a unique and colourful experience that captured the essence of Latin culture. It was a weekend of dancing, delicious food and festive vibes that perfectly complemented the summer’s offerings.
As summer approached its end, the highly anticipated Gin & Jazz Festival made its return in September. This event featured a weekend filled with top quality gin, sparkling wine and live jazz performances. Visitors enjoyed street food stalls, a gin masterclass and lively music on the bandstand, creating an atmosphere that drew thousands of gin enthusiasts and jazz lovers. It was the perfect way to cap off a vibrant summer season, with relaxation and revelry in equal measure!
Throughout the summer, The Pantiles continued to celebrate its weekend markets, including the dedicated Antiques & Vintage Fairs held in June and August. These fairs showcased over 50 outdoor stalls brimming with a stunning array of antiques and collectibles. Whether searching for unique finds or simply enjoying the hunt, attendees were treated to a treasure trove of items that reflected the charm and character of bygone eras.
As we bid farewell to a fantastic summer, be sure to stay tuned for more exciting events and updates at The Pantiles in autumn and winter!