First launched in 2024, Westwood Cross Independents Day is a vibrant showcase of the quality and creativity of local businesses in and around Thanet. The event also provides a space for the community to come together in support of mental health awareness, with trader pitch fees donated directly to East Kent Mind to fund a range of wellbeing activities and vital mental health services.

In 2025, the event raised over £1,430 for East Kent Mind, which has helped fund vital mental health services and programmes in the Thanet area.

With over 50 independent businesses taking part – making this year’s event bigger than ever - guests can browse and shop a diverse mix of arts and crafts, artisan food, handmade soaps and perfumes, beauty and pet products from vendors including Dinky Donuts & Coffee, Velvet and Rose, Pitchers’ Preserves, Board at Home and The Dogg Shop.

Alongside shopping and community activities, families can enjoy a fun-filled day with fairground rides, face-painting and princess meet-and-greets, as well as live music performances from the Thanet Rock Choir.

This year, local dignitaries will make special appearances at the event, including Mayor of Ramsgate, Councillor Raushan Ara, and the Deputy Mayor of Broadstairs, Councillor Steve Roberts, and Deputy Mayor of Margate, Councillor Martin Boyd.

Centre Director at Westwood Cross, Fran Donovan, said, “We’re thrilled to bring Independents Day back for another year, celebrating the fantastic local businesses that help make our community in Thanet so special.

“More than just a market, Independents Day is a chance to bring our community together, discover and support local independent businesses, and raise awareness of the vital work of East Kent Mind.

“With more than 50 independent businesses taking part this year, the response is a great reflection of the community’s desire to shop local and support the businesses on their doorstep. We’re looking forward to welcoming guests to enjoy a day of shopping, discovery and community spirit, while supporting a great local cause.”

Karen Brinkman, Engagement and Fundraising Officer at East Kent Mind, said, “We’re so grateful to Westwood Cross for once again partnering with us for Thanet Independents Day. The event is a fantastic opportunity to bring the local community together, raise vital funds for East Kent Mind and shine a spotlight on the incredible independent traders and businesses that make Thanet so special.

“We’re hugely appreciative of the continued support from Westwood Cross and look forward to another brilliant day of community, connection and fundraising.

Chair of Thanet District Council, Councillor Debra Owen-Hughes, said, “Thanet Independents Day at Westwood Cross provides an important platform for local independent businesses, giving them an opportunity to raise their profile and reach a wider audience. It is particularly positive that the event also supports East Kent Mind, our local mental health charity, combining support for the local business community with an important charitable cause.

“Karen Brinkman is ideally placed to bring an event of this scale together, and her vision, professionalism and commitment have been instrumental in making Thanet Independent Day the success it has become.”

Westwood Cross’s Independents Day will be taking place in the Primark car park on Saturday 26th September from 10am – 5pm. Guests at Westwood Cross are advised that the Primark car park will be closed to vehicles during the event. However, ample parking will be available in the centre’s main car parks.

For more information about this year’s line-up of businesses, activities, and entertainment, please visit the Westwood Cross website: https://www.westwoodx.co.uk/