A flotilla of spectators armed with picnics, chairs and flags will line the canal banks to watch the biennial spectacle that is the Hythe Venetian Fete.

More than 30 decorated floats will take to the water – and they’ll parade not once, but twice.

Staged every two years, always on the third Wednesday in August, the aquatic spectacle attracts visitors from far and wide.

To make the most of the occasion, the picturesque procession sails along the historic Royal Military Canal first in daylight, then repeats the route as an illuminated display after dusk.

This year, the fete takes place on Wednesday, August 19 and spectators can look forward to a fantastic display. Part of Hythe life for 125 years, the Venetian Fete is organised entirely by volunteers and features a firework display, live music, stalls and a funfair.

Float entrants compete for prizes and trophies in four categories – Juveniles, Small Societies and Private Persons, Large Societies and Clubs and the Open – as well as a number of other classes, such as best floral display and best illuminated tableaux.

Not only does the fete provide a fun evening out for all the family, it’s also considered a unique and prestigious event – when the town’s mayor arrives by float to perform the opening ceremony, he will be followed by the 13 other mayors of the Confederation of the Cinque Ports in all their finery.

Fete Timeline

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19

4pm: Gates open

4.30pm: Music and demonstrations on the water

7pm: Fete is officially declared open and daylight parade begins

8pm: Intermission, during which spectators can enjoy the funfair, refreshments and live music

8.50pm: Firework display as dusk falls

9pm: Night parade of the illuminated tableaux

BANDSTAND CONCERTS

In the run-up to the Hythe Venetian Fete, you can enjoy a series of free concerts on the Centre Stage on the Canal Bank, starting with four-piece covers group the Bernie Watts Band at 7.30pm on Saturday, August 15.

The Hythe Town Concert Band performs at 3pm on Sunday, August 16, followed by Jodie and the Diamond Knights at 7.30pm that day.

Jason Lee Howlett presents his Frankie Valli tribute act on Monday, August 17 and the series is rounded off with a 1970s vibe by Abbalicious on Tuesday, August 18, both concerts starting at 7.30pm.

DETAILS

The Hythe Venetian Fete is on Wednesday, August 19. Reserved seating tickets are priced from £12 to £18 for adults and from £7 for children; unreserved seating tickets bought on the gate cost £10 for adults and £5 for children, although you can save £1 on unreserved seating by booking online at www.hythe-venetianfete.com