Maidstone is Kent's county town, situated on the River Medway in southeast England, with a cultural life spanning theatre, music, literature, visual arts and community festivals. The Hazlitt Theatre and Exchange Studio host drama, comedy, dance and live performance, while Maidstone Museum's major investment in its Lives in Our Landscape archaeology gallery and the newly opened Oldham Gallery strengthens its role as a centre for Kent's history and cultural heritage. Kent History and Library Centre and Creative Maidstone support research, exhibitions and artistic activities. Seven miles east of the town, Leeds Castle contributes major heritage exhibitions and public events to the wider area's cultural programme. The annual Maidstone Fringe Festival fills pubs and independent venues, including the Style & Winch, Market House and Craft Brewed, with original bands, DJs and spoken word. Maidstone LitFest, Maidstone Music Festival and Maidstone Improv Festival broaden the town's creative calendar, while Mote Park and the riverside host outdoor performances and community celebrations. Harmony HQ supports young musicians, poetry, theatre and accessible grassroots arts. Culture Reverb's Maidstone archive includes Fringe performances across several venues, Poets Night at Harmony HQ and the 2026 Maidstone River Park Silver Celebration at Whatman Park, featuring the Invicta Jazz Orchestra, Kent Soul Choir and local performers.