The Kent County Show is celebrating its 100th anniversary this July at the Kent Showground near Maidstone

One of Kent’s biggest summer events is celebrating its 100th anniversary with animal encounters, crazy golf and go-karts.

The Kent County Show, which was established in 1923, is once again expected to draw thousands of visitors to the Kent Showground in Detling, near Maidstone, this July.

The outdoor family festival, which showcases the best of local agriculture, produce and farming, is one of the most popular events in the county’s summer calendar.

This year, there will be a number of special moments to mark 100 years of the Kent County Show, including an educational 100 Years of Farming display and a Pitts Special 100th anniversary aerial show.

The three-day event will also welcome the return of trade stands from in and around Kent, including artisan food and drink stalls and retro items in the Vintage Village.

While browsing the local trade stands is one of the biggest draws of the show, you don’t have to spend a penny while you’re there as lots of free activities are included in your entry ticket.

Kids can get involved with outdoor activities such as the Royal Army climbing wall, Rochester Bridge Trust’s crazy golf course, Kent Scout’s pedal go-karts and Hadlow College’s tractor simulator.

There are also a number of workshops on offer, including pizza making, flower arranging, cooking classes and sheep shearing.

For many visitors, the animals are the real stars of the show, and this year’s programme features a large variety of livestock displays and encounters for animal-loving guests.

You can see farmyard animals such as horses, sheep, alpacas, Shetland ponies and miniature ponies, watch shows including dog agility, showjumping, a birds of prey display and the livestock ‘best in show’ parade, and marvel at the rare breeds in the Animal Zone.

Duke, the magical unicorn, will also be making a return to Equine Village this year.

The animals aren’t the only things worth watching during the show. There will also be a vintage vehicle and tractor display, miniature gardens, Saxon re-enactments, bike stunts, Morris dancers and live music.

The Kent County Show takes place at the Kent Showground from Friday, July 7 to Sunday, July 9. Book tickets online here.

Adult tickets cost £22 when booked in advance and £24 on the day.