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Upcoming Events...
Saturday 18th April - 10am to 4pm
Spring Craft Fair - Longthorns Farm, Longthorns, Wareham
With craft stalls, a dog show, bouncy castles, live music, a falconry display and more. It's £2 per car.
Saturday 18th April - 10am to 4pm
Charity Car Wash - Ferndown Fire Station, Ringwood Road
As part of the Fire Fighters Charity National Car Wash, it's your chance to get your car looking sparkling and at the same time supporting firefighters locally and across the UK.
Saturday 18th April - 8:30am to 5pm
Tiger Day Spring - The Tank Museum, Bovington
See a WWII tank display and explore The Tank Museum on a day dedicated to the world’s most infamous tank. Live tanks in action, expert lectures, Living History and much, much more! Search for 'Tiger Day Bovington' for ticket details.
Sunday 19th April - 10am to 12pm
Car Boot Sale - Muscliff School, Broadway Lane
Sellers from 9am, it's £5 a car with no big vans or businesses. Entry is £1 per adult, and free for children.
Tuesday 21st April - Between 1 and 2pm
Lunchtime Concert - St Aldhelm's Church, Parkstone
With period instruments, including examples of some of those found on board, they'll be telling the story of Henry VIII’s ship, the Mary Rose. This is part of St Aldhelm’s Church lunchtime concert series, and refreshments will be available at the church from midday. It's a free concert with retiring collection, and for more details www.courtlyemusick.co.uk
Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd April
Banff Mountain Film Festival - Regent Centre, Christchurch
Big-screen adventure - incoming! The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is bringing a night of inspirational adventure films to venues around Dorset. There's climbing in Patagonia, mountain biking in Nepal and much more. The Banff Mountain Film Festival features cutting-edge expeditions from remote corners of the globe. Search for 'Banff Film Festival' for ticket details and showtimes.
Friday 24th to Sunday 26th April 2026 - 12pm to 10pm
Bournemouth Writing Festival - Various locations around the town
The Bournemouth Writing Festival is back for its fourth year – welcoming over 1,000 writers, authors and writing professionals to the beach to improve and profess their writing journey. The festival again promises to offer tips, guidance, advice and inspiration for writers at all stages of their writing journey. From talks, workshops and masterclasses to networking events and panels, a plethora of events and activities to inspire writers to write is being planned. Search for 'Bournemouth Writing Festival' to find out more.
Saturday 25th April 2026 - 7pm
Musical Journey Across Europe - Lady St Mary's Church, Wareham
Wareham Choral Society are delighted to announce that the lovely local Mezzo-Soprano Grace Lovelass will be joining them for their 'Musical journey across Europe', accompanied by their talented organist Paul Ellis. Wareham choral society is a registered charity and has been Wareham's choir based in Lady St Mary's church since 1947, thus celebrating 80 years next year. Search for 'Wareham Choral Society Events' for ticket details.
Saturday 25th April 2026 - 6pm to 11pm
Music Venue Trust Fundraiser - The Four Horsemen, Commercial Road, Bournemouth
Join them for a night of independent music and fundraising for the Music Venue Trust. Charlie Smith, an alternative acoustic artist from Hampshire, is embarking on his spring tour, fundraising for the Music Venue Trust. This will include six different grassroots music venues around England. Come along and support local independent music. Leon Rain, Fragile Lucy and Hunters Moon will also be performing. Search for 'MVT Fundraiser Bournemouth' for more, and entrance is free.
Saturday 25th April 2026 - 12 to 3pm
Family Fun Day - Sturts Farm, West Moors
They'll be hosting a variety of family friendly things to do, with games and crafts, live music, the chance to meet animals, a scavenger hunt and tractor rides.
Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th April 2026 - Show opens at 10am
The Classic Vehicle and Steam Engine Show - Neddy Green, Eddy Green Road, Lytchett Matravers
With classic cars, motorcycles, tractors, trade stalls, and live music on the Saturday night. Under 14's go free.
Sunday 26th April 2026 - 9:45am to 4pm
120th Anniversary Celebrations - Richmond Park Bowls, Fitzharris Avenue, Winton
The chance to try your hand at bowls on their beautiful green. There will be free coaching, light refreshments and a BBQ, and the event is being opened by their local MP, Tom Hayes. Search for 'Richmond Park Bowls' to find out more.
Saturday 2nd May - 10am to 4pm
May Revels At The Red House - Red House Museum And Gardens, Quay Road, Christchurch
Join them for a day of music, dance, and springtime celebration. Step into the spirit of May with folky live music, traditional games, maypole dancing and folk and morris dancing plus lots more to be announced. It’s the perfect way to welcome the warmer days and enjoy the beautiful Red House Museum gardens. Search for 'May Revels At The Red House' for ticket details.
Sunday 3rd May - 11am to 4pm
Winton Jumble Stroll - Various locations in Winton
The chance to join this Winton community event, by hosting your own drive/front/back garden sale. Organised by the Winton Neighbourhood group on Facebook, where there's also a map available.
Monday 4th May - Meet at 9:30am
Dorset Big Walk - Paws Of Dorset, Tinpot Lane, Blandford (The Walk is around the Milldown)
Animal lovers across Dorset are invited to step up for a cause this spring, as this is one of two Dorset Big Walks taking place on the Bank Holiday Monday. Part of a heart warming nationwide initiative by The Cinnamon Trust, the Big Walk raises awareness of the charity’s vital work supporting older people and those with terminal illness to care for their pets. The free event is open to everyone, and those who would like to receive a goody bag on the day are encouraged to register in advance via the official page. On the day, walkers of all ages – and dogs of all shapes and sizes in Cinnamon Trust bandanas – will go for a friendly stroll, with volunteers on hand to chat about the charity’s work and how to get involved. To register: https://cinnamon.org.uk/event/the-big-walk-2026/blandford/
Monday 4th May - 3 to 6pm
Mayday Family Party - The Russell Court Hotel, Bath Road, Bournemouth
An afternoon of music, games and food, with market stalls too.
Monday 4th May - 10am
Dorset Big Walk - Café Riva, Boscombe Overcliff Drive
Animal lovers across Dorset are invited to step up for a cause this spring, as this is one of two Big Walks taking place on the Bank Holiday Monday. Part of a heart warming nationwide initiative by The Cinnamon Trust, the Big Walk raises awareness of the charity’s vital work supporting older people and those with terminal illness to care for their pets. The free event is open to everyone, and those who would like to receive a goody bag on the day are encouraged to register in advance via the official page. On the day, walkers of all ages – and dogs of all shapes and sizes in Cinnamon Trust bandanas – will go for a friendly stroll, with volunteers on hand to chat about the charity’s work and how to get involved. To register: https://cinnamon.org.uk/event/the-big-walk-2026/bournemouth/
Saturday 9th May 2026 - From 9:30am
Seaside Scramble - Baiter Park, Poole
Get ready to scramble, climb, crawl, and laugh your way through 5K of pure fun! Introducing Seaside Scramble – the brand-new, action-packed obstacle course inspired by the work of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Set against the stunning backdrop of Poole’s harbourside, this event is designed for all ages and abilities. You might be teaming up with family, having a laugh with friends, or rounding up your workmates for a team challenge. With air ambulance-themed obstacles across an exciting two-lap course, expect plenty of muddy knees, big smiles, and the chance to support a vital life-saving cause. Why Take Part? Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is a charity that receives no direct government funding. Each life-saving mission costs around £3,500 – and your entry, sponsorship, and support can help fund the next one. They hope every Scrambler will aim to raise £50 in sponsorship. Every step you take helps to keep their critical care team in the skies. Search for 'Seaside Scramble' to find out more.
Saturday 9th May - 10am to 11:30am
RNLI Mayday Dip - Boscombe Beach
Brave the cold, support the lifeguards, and make a splash for a great cause! In celebration of 25 years of RNLI Lifeguards, they 'll be raising vital funds for our local lifeguards. Each participant will be encouraged to raise sponsorship from friends and family – use the link below to register as a fundraiser to get your own personal page to track your fundraising on. https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/rnlimaydaydipbournemouth Each Dip will be for a maximum of 12 minutes. Fancy dress is optional but encouraged! Full safety measures will be in place which include lifeguards, as well as additional first aid provided by Phoenix EMS. All participants are asked to arrive for registration which will be set up by the lifeguard hut between 10.00 and 10.30am where they will be given a wristband. Children are welcome to attend the event, however no child under the age of 12 will be able to take part in the dip. All children (under 18) will need to be accompanied by a parent/guardian at all times. No unaccompanied children (over 12, under 18) will be permitted to take part in the dip. For more details search for 'RNLI Mayday Dip'.
Sunday 10th May - 8pm
Michael McIntyre’s Charity Show In Aid Of Julia’s House - Lighthouse, Poole
Taking place in the Concert Hall, Michael McIntyre will be performing greatest hits and new bits, all in aid of Julia's House, which is our local children’s hospice. They provide specialist care for children with life-limiting conditions and support for their exhausted families, giving them all a chance to have the magical moments and memories every child and family deserves. Strictly for 14+ with tickets on sale from Tuesday 14th April at 11am www.lighthousepoole.co.uk
Friday 15th May - Starts at 6pm
Sing-Along Movie Night - Bournemouth Electric Club, Broadway Lane
They’ll be screening the beloved musical Mamma Mia! and you’re invited to sing along to all your favourite ABBA hits as the story unfolds. There will also be a delicious Greek-themed buffet included with the ticket, and fun ABBA-inspired cocktails. The movie starts at 8pm. Fancy Dress is encouraged!
Search for 'Sing Along Movie Night Bournemouth' for ticket details.
Saturday 16th May 2026 - 10am to 4pm
Redhill Summer Fete - Redhill Park, Bournemouth
A fun filled day with family entertainment, games and much more! It's organised annually by the 34th Bournemouth Scouts, and there will also be dog shows at 11am and 2pm, a grand prize draw, arena shows, bouncy castles, face painting and cakes, drinks and a BBQ. There's also free entry. Search for the '34th Bournemouth Scouts' on Facebook for more details.
Saturday 16th May 2026 - 11am to 6pm
Southbourne Food And Fun Festival - Fisherman's Walk, Southbourne
A free-entry community celebration packed with delicious local food & drink producers, live music and entertainment, “Grow your own” and “Cook your own” workshops, cake competitions and food-themed fun, sustainability and eco-friendly stalls, fancy dress, food bingo, and family activities galore! This brand-new event will shine a light on Dorset and Hampshire’s incredible food scene while bringing the community together for a fun-filled day by the sea. Search for 'Southbourne Food And Fun Fest' for more.
Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May 2026 - 10am to 6pm (Saturday) 10am to 5pm (Sunday
The Cheese And Chilli Festival - Parley Lane, Christchurch
Celebrating all things cheese and chilli, and there's food to try, live music, traders, a mini fun fair, cooking demos, chilli challenges and kids entertainment. Children 15 and under go free, and search for 'Cheese and Chilli Festival Christchurch' for ticket details and event times.
Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May 2026 - 10am to 7pm
Magic Of Thailand Festival - Baiter Park, Poole
There will be delicious Thai food and dancing, you'll be able to browse arts and craft stalls, there's eating competitions, Monk blessings, Thai massages, and much more. Children 15 and under go free and search for 'Magic Of Thailand Poole' for ticket details.
Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May 2026 - 10am to 4pm
Dorchester Vegan Market - Maumbury Rings, Weymouth Avenue
The Dorchester Vegan MegaMarket returns outdoors to the historic Maumbury Rings Roman Amphitheatre this Spring! With free entry to the 2 Day May MegaMarket, with 50+ stalls of 100% vegan products situated at the north end of the rings, everyone can enjoy this superb outdoor event. And with a massive grass amphitheatre you can bring your own blankets or chairs for relaxing and dining. Both days there will be many stalls from local businesses offering delicious hot and cold food and drinks, yummy cakes, ice-creams, tasty cheeses and other fine cuisine. Along with health and beauty care, ethical clothing, eco-friendly products, jewellery, information and advice and so much more! With all stalls under gazebos the Market can go ahead rain or shine. If weather permits, there will be an Inflatable Play Zone with bouncy castles and slides, an additional attraction for the children. And exciting free Crystal Bowl and Gong Bath sessions resonating throughout the rings for everyone to enjoy. A great event for all the family. So whether you're vegan, veggie or omni, come and experience the fastest growing phenomenon of our time. The venue is fully accessible throughout. Well behaved dogs on a lead are welcome. There are a number of public car parks within a few minutes’ walk from the venue. The closest car parking with toilets is opposite just 90 seconds away on foot - Fairfield Car Park, Weymouth Avenue, DT1 1QW - £6.30 all day. All Short Stay car parks in Dorchester are £1.70 for two hours or £2.40 for three hours. Join this event page to keep up to date https://www.facebook.com/events/901165766167664/ STALLHOLDER INFORMATION: To enquire about stall availability please e-mail: wdveganevents@gmail.com
Sunday 17th May 2026 - Arrive at Poole Quay from 8am
The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride - Departs from Poole Quay
They're celebrating 15 years of riding dapper for men's health! The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride unites classic and vintage styled motorcycle riders from all over the world, to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. Join them this May for a journey that goes beyond roads, making a real difference in men's health. Each mile they ride is a step towards brighter futures and healthier tomorrows. The event departs from Poole Quay and then goes through Sandbanks, Westbourne, Bournemouth Pier, Southbourne, Christchurch High Street and finishes at Sammy Millers Museum in New Milton. Search for 'Distinguished Gentlemens Ride 2026' to find out more.
Sunday 17th May 2026 - 10:30am to 4pm
Dorset Blind Association Motor Show - Lulworth Castle, East Lulworth
This year marks a special 10th anniversary of the event, celebrating a decade of bringing together car enthusiasts, families, and the local community in support of blind and partially sighted people across Dorset. The 2026 show promises to bring together an incredible variety of vehicles — from classic and modern cars to sports, performance, and supercars. The showground will be open to the general public free of charge, offering a fantastic family day out with live music, children’s entertainment, food and drink vendors, along with artisan traders. Search for 'Dorset Blind Association Motor Show' to find out more.
Saturday 23rd May 2026 - From 10am
Community Fun Day - Christchurch Baptist Church, Bargates
There will be a formal opening ceremony with the Mayor of Christchurch, and also a community fun day where you're invited to explore the new facilities. The new building provides a worship space 60% larger than the existing hall opposite. It will also host a range of community activities, including children’s and youth groups, support meetings and local events, serving people across Christchurch and the surrounding area. The church hopes the new building will serve the wider Christchurch community for generations to come.
Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th May - 10am to 5pm (both days)
Swanage Pirate Festival - Sandpit Field, Swanage
Join them for the 10th anniversary of Pirate shenanigans in Swanage. It's gonna be two thrilling days of family-friendly swashbuckling adventures on Sandpit Field. You'll see cannon and sword displays, with the chance to browse the enchanting stalls and food vendors, and also the captivating 17th Century living history exhibits. Feel free to embrace the spirit of the sea by donning your finest pirate attire or indulge in face painting at the event. This is a free event to attend so join them for their 10th anniversary!
Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th May - 10am to 8pm (Saturday and Sunday) 10am to 5pm (Monday)
Christchurch Food Festival - Christchurch Quay
It's a free event with renowned chefs, local producers, interactive workshops, tastings, live music and children’s activities. Search for 'Christchurch Food Festival' to find out more.
Saturday 23rd May to Sunday 7th June
Purbeck Art Weeks Festival - Rollington Barn, Studland Road, Corfe Castle
Purbeck Art Weeks 2026 promises to be two inspiring weeks of creativity, performance and discovery. The festival launches with a major highlight, I Fagiolini, the internationally acclaimed vocal ensemble known for their imaginative programmes and world-class performances. You can also expect to see an incredible array of visual arts at their Festival hub at Rollington Barn in Corfe Castle, plus plenty of local artists will open their doors for Open Studios, sharing work in painting, ceramics, sculpture, print, glass, textiles and more. Alongside the opening concert, there will be a diverse music and events programme featuring world-class ensembles, soloists and much more across Purbeck’s characterful and easy to reach venues. Search for 'Purbeck Art Weeks Festival' to find out more.
Saturday 6th June - 12:30pm to 6pm
West Moors Farm Fest - Gullivers Farm, Station Road, West Moors
Bringing together live music from a fantastic line-up of artists, and the chance to enjoy organic farm food freshly prepared by their chefs from the award-winning Gullivers Farm Shop & Kitchen, alongside a handpicked selection of award-winning street food vendors. There’s plenty to explore beyond the food and music too, with an exciting mix of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained throughout the event. Whether you’re coming for the atmosphere, the flavours, or the entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Friday 19th to Sunday 21st June
Dorset Bikefest - Wooders Campsite, Wareham
They'll be raising funds for the Docbike charity, while providing an exciting line-up of activities, including ride-outs (and ride-ins), demonstrations, educational talks and workshops, live music, amazing stands from the biggest - and smallest - of Bike dealers and Biker traders, delicious food and drink offerings, and family-friendly camping and glamping options so you don't necessarily need to bring much more than your family - and your bike! Join them for a thrilling celebration of the biker lifestyle in the beautiful Dorset countryside. Search for 'Dorset Bikefest' for more.
Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st June
Beautiful World Festival - Kings Park, Bournemouth
The chance to experience and enjoy many different cultures, with global street food, sports performances from around the world, free yoga and dance workshops, a live stage all day, and kids under 15 go free. Search for 'Beautiful World Festival' for ticket details.
Until Sunday 21st June
Lucian Freud's Etchings: A Creative Collaboration - Poole Museum
Created by the V&A, and touring the country, this compelling exhibition explores the lesser-known printmaking practice of Lucian Freud. He was one of Britain’s most celebrated artists of the 20th century, showcasing the creative partnership behind his extraordinary etchings. Search for 'Poole Museum Lucian Freud' for more.
Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June - 10:30am to 7pm (Saturday) and 11am to 5pm (Sunday)
Shake And Stir Armed Forces Weekender - Fisherman's Walk, Southbourne
A free community event, with live music, vintage traders, military and heritage vehicles, cadet and veterans' parades and much more. Search for 'Armed Forces Weekend Southbourne' for more details.
Saturday 4th July
Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike
Hike a full or half marathon along the stunning Jurassic Coast, or choose from 11 other locations across the UK. Get your friends and family together and take on a Macmillan Mighty Hike this summer. Together, we can improve cancer care for everyone in the UK. At your Mighty Hike you'll receive a Macmillan hiking top, free event photos, plenty of snacks, a delicious lunch and hot dinner, and a finisher's medal and bubbly. Search for 'Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike' to see how you can get involved and to sign up for the event.
Friday 17th to Sunday 19th July - 4pm to 11pm (Friday), 11am to 11pm (Saturday), 11am to 8pm (Sunday)
Christchurch Music Festival - Christchurch Quay
Christchurch Music Festival has been part of the town’s story for over 30 years – and now, it’s stepping into an exciting new era. The 2026 festival promises a vibrant weekend of world-class entertainment, street food, drinks, and community spirit, all set against the stunning backdrop of Christchurch Quay. The line up includes The Real Thing and Heatwave on the Friday, Toploader and Another Level on Saturday, and Jon and Jo from S Club on Sunday. Search for 'Christchurch Music Festival' for ticket details.
Saturday 18th July - 10am to 4pm
Muscliff Family Fun Day - Muscliff Park, Shillingstone Drive, Bournemouth
Fun for all the family, with live music, charity stalls, pizza, a BBQ, pancakes, bubble tea, facepainting, crazy golf and much more. There's free entry, and it's in partnership with the 10th Bournemouth Scouts. Search for 'Muscliff Family Fun Day 2026' for more.
Saturday 25th July - 11am to 2pm
Christchurch River Pageant - Tuckton Tea Gardens to Christchurch Town Quay
The event will open from 10.30am with a number of stalls, activities, water safety demonstrations and presentations about the history of Christchurch. Refreshments will be available to purchase from The Tea Gardens. The Pageant will start at 12 noon. The Rotary Clubs of Christchurch and Boscombe & Southbourne have organised this fundraising event, featuring a parade of decorated floats – boats, canoes, SUPs, homemade rafts and more – along the River Stour in Christchurch. The theme for the fancy dress is Christchurch’s rich and varied history – think smugglers, pirates…. The river pageant will be followed by team Dragon boat racing. So if you own a boat, are a canoeist or paddleboarder, or fancy making your own raft then come and join the pageant! Last year one of their entries was a picnic table!! Money raised will go to 3 local charities: The Hengistbury Head Outdoor Centre, Bourne Water Dragons and the Pink Champagne Breast Cancer Survivors’ Dragon Boat Team. Search for 'Christchurch River Pageant' for more details.
Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th July - 11am to 5pm
Mudeford Arts Festival - Mudeford Quay Green
This event brings together artists, musicians, and craftspeople to showcase their talents. There will be art and sculpture, crafts and jewellery, live music and dance, demonstrations, children's art activities and much more. Search for 'Mudeford Arts Festival' to find out more.
Saturday 1st August - 11:30am to 10:15pm
Stompin' On The Quomps - Christchurch Quay
Presenting a whole day and night of live smooth jazz entertainment for old and young. Now in its 30th year, Stompin’ is an independent, non-profit family-friendly festival – free for everyone to enjoy.
They feature a wide range of the very best Jazz talent from the local area and further afield, playing from noon until 10pm. And as usual they'll have a wide range of food and drink stalls at the event. They'll also be selling raffle tickets on the day with some great prizes on offer. So bring along a blanket or some chairs and settle in for a whole day of top jazz in a picturesque, friendly and welcoming setting. Search for 'Stompin On The Quomps' for more.
Monday 3rd to Saturday 15th August - Performances on 3/4/5/7/8/10/11/12/14/15 (all from 7:30pm, apart from Saturdays with a matinee at 2pm, and evening at 8pm)
The Tempest - Canford School, Wimborne
Tickets are now on sale for Brownsea Open Air Theatre’s 2026 summer production of The Tempest, in the beautiful grounds of Canford School. One of the South’s largest theatrical productions, Brownsea Open Air Theatre (BOAT) will stage Shakespeare’s magical tale of betrayal, power and redemption.. Audiences will be invited to experience open-air theatre in a unique setting, combining Shakespeare’s timeless storytelling with a spectacular outdoor backdrop. Search for 'The Tempest Canford School' for ticket details.
Friday 14th to Sunday 16th August
Christchurch Carnival - Christchurch Quay
Christchurch Carnival is a free community event for you and your loved ones to come together. Their purpose is to raise money for local non-profit organisations and charities, including Julia's House Children's Hospice and the Christchurch Community Partnership. Your contribution makes a real impact to the lives of those in need living locally.
Wednesday 18th November
Banff Mountain Film Festival - Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne
Big-screen adventure - incoming! The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is bringing a night of inspirational adventure films to venues around Dorset. There's climbing in Patagonia, mountain biking in Nepal and much more. The Banff Mountain Film Festival features cutting-edge expeditions from remote corners of the globe. Search for 'Banff Film Festival' for ticket details and showtimes.

