The Festival of Steam and Transport returns for 2020
The Festival of Steam and Transport returns to The Historic Dockyard Chatham on Sunday, April 12 and Monday, April 13. Anything goes for this event – steam fanatics, classic car collectors, steampunks or families looking for an entertaining day out – this Festival has it all.
The Festival of Steam and Transport is a Dockyard stalwart, taking place annually over the Easter weekend. Visitors can soak up the atmosphere, see magnificent engines fill the air with steam, watch the quirky street entertainers and enjoy traditional fairground rides for free – the Festival provides the perfect balance of nostalgia and entertainment.
Working in partnership with BBC Radio Kent, there will be live music from local artists featured on “The Kent Sessions” and performances from the popular Rock Choir. Back by popular demand will be street entertainers ‘The Balloon Man,’ ‘Phileas Fogg’ and ‘The Dodo.’
A fantastic array of classic cars from the 1930s to the 1980s will line the streets and the festival wouldn’t be complete without the giants of steam – from road rollers to steam traction engines, the air will be filled with the nostalgic smells of steam from a bygone era.
Stephen Billington, Events Manager, Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust said: “The Festival of Steam and Transport celebrates all things ‘Transport’ against the iconic backdrop of The Historic Dockyard Chatham. Visitors can see Trains, Steam Engines and Vintage Cars from the 1920s to the modern day. Families can enjoy a Traditional Vintage Steam fair as well as music and dancing across the site.”
“Kids big and small can enjoy life-size trains, engines and vehicles, or get hands on with models from Hornby and Scalextric. A wide variety of food will be available, including Kentish Produce celebrating all that the Garden of England has to offer. Visitors can also enjoy the live music performances, watch Morris Dance displays, enjoy family entertainment across the site and visit our very own ‘Steampunk Village’.”
Festival tickets also allow visitors to explore the wider Historic Dockyard site. With galleries and exhibitions all open to enjoy – from discovering the secrets of the Namur timbers in Command of the Oceans, to the walking cinema experience in Hearts of Oak. As well as a working Victorian Ropery and access to 3 Historic Warships.
Tickets for The Festival of Steam and Transport are on sale now.
The Festival is open from 10am – 6pm on both days.
