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DCR will be broadcasting live from Dover Harbour Festival 2026 on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th July, bringing local radio to the heart of one of Dover’s biggest waterfront events.
Formerly known as the Dover Regatta, which ran for more than 10 years, the newly named Dover Harbour Festival marks a fresh chapter for the town and its waterfront. The festival will bring together some of the most popular parts of the Regatta, including challenging races and marine performances, alongside a wider range of onshore family-friendly activities and award-winning food and drink from across Kent.
The event takes place on the Dover Waterfront and is set to be a brilliant weekend for families, residents and visitors. With free entry, plenty to see and do, and a strong focus on celebrating Dover’s harbour, community and coastal setting, it promises to be a fantastic two days by the sea.
DCR will be live from the festival between 10am and 4pm on both days, speaking to local people, community groups, organisers, visitors and those taking part in the weekend’s activities. We’ll be sharing the atmosphere from the waterfront and helping listeners across East Kent feel part of the event, whether they are there in person or tuning in from home.
What to expect at Dover Harbour Festival
The festival programme includes a mix of activities on and off the water. Popular Regatta favourites return alongside new family-friendly attractions, giving visitors plenty of reasons to spend the day at the waterfront.
One of the highlights is the Dragon Boat Race, which is open to teams of complete novices as well as those with experience. Teams take part in timed races over a 200-metre international sprint distance, with teamwork, rhythm and timing playing a big part in the challenge.
There will also be the Dover Harbour Festival Swim, hosted by Dover Lifeguard Club. Swim categories include a 500m novice swim, 1km junior and senior swims, and 3km junior and senior swims, with prizes awarded in several categories.
Alongside the water-based events, visitors can enjoy onshore activities, local businesses, family entertainment, food, drink and the wider festival atmosphere across the waterfront.
Event details
Event: Dover Harbour Festival 2026
Date: Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th July 2026
Location: Dover Waterfront
Entry: Free
DCR outside broadcast: 10am to 4pm on both days
Suitable for: Families, residents, visitors and anyone looking for a great day out in Dover
DCR is proud to be part of this year’s Dover Harbour Festival and we’re looking forward to celebrating Dover, its people, its harbour and its brilliant waterfront.
Come along, enjoy the festival and make sure you come and say hello to the DCR team.
