Music on the Farm 2026 Announces Return to Solley's Farm in Ripple
The stage is set for the much-anticipated return of Music on the Farm 2026, which will once again grace the picturesque fields of Solley's Ice Cream Parlour in Ripple, near Deal, Kent. Organised by the esteemed local charity Martha Trust, this cherished annual one-day festival is scheduled for Sunday, June 14, 2026, promising a full day of entertainment, community spirit, and fundraising for a vital cause. Gates will open at 11.30am, with the event running from noon until 8pm, offering attendees ample time to immerse themselves in the festivities.
A Diverse Lineup of Live Music and Entertainment
A host of talented local performers will take to the stage, delivering an eclectic mix of musical styles designed to appeal to all tastes. The lineup includes folk rock, bluesy beats, dance classics, and feel-good cheesy tunes, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day. Confirmed acts feature Muzz and Joe Duo, The Upsetters – Still Upsetting, Situationist!, Lofty Harris, Shiva, and Grooveshack, each bringing their unique flair to the event.
Beyond the music, the entertainment continues with captivating dance displays from groups such as Dance with Danni, DAPA Official, and Deal Ukulele Club. A brand-new compere will host the proceedings, while official photographers Chris Mansfield and Sharon Powell will capture the memorable moments, preserving the joy of the day for years to come.
Family-Friendly Fun and Activities
Families are in for a treat with an extensive Kids' Area, coordinated by Creative Arts Workshop Leader and Event Planner Lizzie Willis and her dedicated team. This area will offer six hours of children's entertainment, including arts and crafts, drama, and dance workshops, all included in the ticket price. Additional attractions to delight visitors of all ages include:
- Face painting and hair glitter stations
- Karl's Festival Stall for unique finds
- Hand, neck, and shoulder seated massages provided by Mother Earth Therapies
- A visit from the local Fire Brigade
- Traditional fairground games such as Hook a Duck and Coconut Shy, available for a small charge in the Martha Tent
Accessibility remains a key priority, with Revolootion on site offering a fully accessible mobile toilet facility equipped with an adult-sized changing bench, hoist, and a friendly attendant, ensuring the event is inclusive for all attendees.
Local Food, Drink, and Fundraising Initiatives
Festival-goers can indulge in a wide range of Kent-based culinary delights, with vendors generously donating 20% of their sales back to Martha Trust. The food and drink lineup includes:
- The Larder, serving delicious options including vegan and vegetarian dishes
- Soul Chef Kitchen, offering authentic Jamaican cuisine
- BJ's Pizza, with wood-fired pizzas
- Solley's full bar, Ruby Rose and Pearl Horsebox Bar, and a Pimm's Bar
- KC Confectionary and Crumble Cups for sweet treats
- Solley's Ice Cream, a local favourite
Fundraising efforts will be bolstered by a large auction, raffle, and a Barrow of Booze prize draw, all contributing to the charity's vital work. Main Event Sponsorship for 2026 has been provided by Superior Healthcare Group, Solley's Farm Ice Cream, Cook Fabrications Ltd, and Reclamet, a Birchington-based vehicle recycling business. The event also benefits from a KCC Combined Members Grant from Cllr Martin Paul.
Ticket Information and Community Involvement
Advance tickets are available online at the Martha Trust website, with pricing as follows:
- Family Ticket: £45 for two adults and up to three children under 16
- Adult Ticket: £18
- Child Ticket: £8
Kerry Banks BEM, Fundraising and Events Manager at Martha Trust, expressed excitement about the festival's return, stating: "We are really excited to be delivering our festival once again with our long-term supporters and friends at Solley's Farm Ice Cream. We have lots planned — you are in for a treat!" She encouraged businesses to get involved through sponsorship or donations for auctions and raffles, with contact details provided for the fundraising team.
Lizzie Willis highlighted the family-friendly nature of the event, saying: "This event never fails to be great fun for all the family — it's safe, well organised and supports a truly deserving charity. The children always have such a fantastic time, and I am really looking forward to it."
Katie Morrison, Director at Solley's Ice Cream, added: "Once again, we are incredibly proud to be part of Music on the Farm. Martha Trust is an extremely important local charity that we are delighted to support long-term, and we love welcoming visitors to our farm. This event really is the highlight of our year."
Businesses interested in supporting the event through sponsorship or prize donations are encouraged to contact the fundraising team on 01304 610448 or via email at fundraising@marthatrust.org.uk.
