Published: Friday, 19th December 2025
Medway is truly in the Christmas spirit following a successful Dickensian Christmas Festival and three weekends of the Rochester Christmas Market.
More than 230,000 visitors enjoyed everything Rochester had on offer, including more than 120 stalls to buy stocking fillers, unique gifts and seasonal treats, as well as fairground rides for all ages to enjoy.
The crowds flocked to Rochester over the famous Dickensian Christmas Festival too.
Thousands came to revel among the always-amazing costumed characters, watch the parades along the high-street and hear the sound of Christmas carols fill the air.
Thanks to everyone who played their part
Cllr Nina Gurung, Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and Leisure, said: “The Rochester Christmas Market and Dickensian Festival 2025 helped to welcome more than 230,000 people - one of our largest yet - consisting of Medway residents and visitors, and spark the joyful Christmas spirit. Events of this scale require months of planning, preparation and hard work, and we do this happily to promote Medway, our rich heritage and culture. I would like to thank everyone who played their part in making all three weekends such a resounding success yet again. There are so many people involved – our own council officers and partners, the wonderful stallholders, the Cathedral, our brilliant local businesses along the high street, the amazing costumed characters and performers and of course our outstanding emergency services.
“It was great for us to see so many people from near and far come and join us in Rochester to celebrate and create wonderful memories with their friends and loved ones, in a festive, fun and safe environment. As we get closer to the big day, I would like to wish all of you a very happy and healthy Christmas, and a wonderful new year!"