Bring the whole family down to the canal for a floating extravaganza of fun at the Hythe Venetian Fete.

The historic fete began in 1890 and has been held on the third Wednesday of August almost every other year since.

The only thing to put a halt to the fete in recent years has been the pandemic, which has left the crowds - which usually flock to the fete in their thousands - waiting since 2019.

However, this summer the celebration finally returns to the water, bringing with it decorated floats, live music and entertainment, and a spectacular firework display.

The spectacle begins with the opening ceremony, hosted by the Mayor of Hythe, after which 28 different floats, adorned with colourful and imaginative decorations, will set sail down the Royal Military Canal.

The first parade takes place in the daylight, and the second takes place once the sun goes down as the floats light up the water and town.

The floats will be led by a band as they compete for the top prize, while other awards such as best floral, best dressed rowers and best illuminated will also be handed out.

The two parades will be separated by a fantastic firework display at dusk.

While the fete itself is only a one-day affair, the town will be celebrating the biannual occasion with a number of live music events leading up to the day.

The concerts kick off on Saturday, August 13 with 2Che, an energetic duo covering songs in a range of musical styles.

The following afternoon, the 135 year old Hythe Town Concert Band will be performing two hours of traditional music, while the evening will see music from ‘80s tribute band Rubix-80’s.

The final free concert takes place on Monday, August 15, when the Four Harmonies will be performing everyone’s favourite ‘60s hits from the likes of Frankie Valli, The Drifters, the Four Seasons and The Temptations.

During the day, there will be several food and drink stands selling a variety of tasty dishes and refreshing tipples on each side of the canal banks to keep you going right through to the evening display.

The Hythe Venetian Fete takes place on the Royal Military Canal in Hythe on Wednesday, August 17 from 4pm to 10pm.

Tickets must be purchased in advance online here or from the ticket office.