Christmas in Dorset 2026! There are plenty of events and activities happening for you to enjoy the festivities safely. From Christmas light switch ons to great festive days out in Dorset. Keep checking back as more 2026 Christmas events are announced.
Don’t forget to check out all the great places to meet Santa in Dorset, SEN Santa sessions, pantomimes in Dorset and the great Dorset Christmas markets.
Christmas Events In Dorset
Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland – Bournemouth Christmas Lights & Ice Rink
Dates: 2026 TBC
The Bournemouth Christmas lights cover the Lower Gardens with over 100 glittering trees and illuminations to enjoy.
why not visit Bournemouth and enjoy the lights. At the heart of the trail is the awesome Bournemouth Wonderland Tree. Towering over the gardens at an impressive 60ft, the tree is decorated with 30,000 individually programmable LED lights.
It’s not just about the Christmas Tree trail. Also to entertain you is the outdoor ice rink, seasonal music and entertainment, as well as the Alpine Lodge bar and market.
Dorset Christmas At The Tank Museum
Dates: 14th – 15th November 2026
A Christmassy day out for all ages. While adults can watch live entertainment and buy unique presents from local crafters, children can explore our Christmas trail and see Santa arrive in a tank.
On 14th – 15th November between 9am – 5pm. You will receive a free annual pass with every ticket purchased.
Illuminate At Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Buller’s Way, Abbotsbury, Dorset, DT3 4LA
Dates: 2026 TBC
ILLUMINATE. ‘OT Event Technicians’ will be Illuminating the Gardens in the lead up to Christmas this year. The event will run daily 4.30pm to 8.00pm from the 21st November until 31st December with last entries between 7.00pm and 7.15pm.
Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Switch On
Broad Street, Lyme Regis
Date: 2026 TBC
One of the spectacular Christmas lights in Dorset displays is happening in Lyme Regis. The afternoon celebrations begin with a Christmas lantern making workshop at Pine Hall, Lyme Regis Baptist Church at 2.30pm.
This is a free event with all materials provided and is great fun for kids and all the family.
Prizes will be awarded for the best lanterns in each age category with judging taking place at 4.30pm. Lanterns made at home are welcome to enter the competition.
The carnival parade makes its way down Broad Street with an illuminated Carnival from around 5pm, with the cross-street lighting displays illuminating as the parade passes underneath. The Christmas tree lights at Bell Cliff will be switched on around 5.30pm.
Kingston Lacy’s A Starlit Christmas Ball
Dates: 21st November 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Explore the house and gardens, decorated for a spectacular Christmas ball. You’ll follow the story as you move through the rooms, and see glorious costumes and twinkling decorations inspired by the night sky and Christmas magic.
Christmas Lights & Reindeer Experience
Nutley Farm, Winfrith Newburgh, Nr Dorchester, DT2 8DT
Dates: 27th November – 30th December 2026
Wander along the magical illuminated 600m walkway, pass through glittering archways, twinkling trees and light installations. Suitable for all ages and the perfect way to get into the festive spirit with your family.
Read our full review of Christmas at Nutley Farm
There’s also the chance to meet the friendly reindeer, and take part in the Elf hunt along the illuminated walk.
Swanage Railway Father Christmas Yuletide Express
Dates: 28th November – 24th December 2026
Step into a world of twinkling lights, festive cheer and timeless Christmas traditions. The Yuletide Express is more than a train ride- it’s a heart-warming journey into the magic of the season.
What to expect
Your festive adventure begins at Swanage Station. As the scent of mince pies fills the air and carols drift from the platform, you’re welcomed into a cosy, nostalgic celebration.
- All aboard! Settle into your seat for a one-hour return journey through the stunning Purbeck countryside, where wintry views and festive spirit go hand-in-hand.
- Be greeted by the Magic Ticket Collector, who’ll make sure your family is ready for the enchantment ahead.
- The cheerful Christmas Elves will lead songs, spread joy, and bring smiles to little faces.
- Then, a moment to remember – Father Christmas himself will make his way through the train, meeting each family and delighting every child with a festive gift:
- A quality Christmas present
- A traditional candy cane
- And of course – a satsuma, just like the ones tucked into stockings long ago
- Children can also visit the Christmas Wishing Tree to write and hang up their wishes.
Related Post – A trip on the Swanage steam railway
Christmas At Corfe Castle
Dates: December 2026
The Corfe Castle village Christmas lights will be switched on the first weekend of December. The Castle is usually illuminated during December and early January and open for a few hours in the evening for you to enjoy the lights.
Blandford Yuletide Festival
Date: 2026 TBC
You can enjoy this FREE Christmas event in Blandford with a lantern parade through the town and a visit from Santa. The Christmas tree will also be lit in town.
Christmas At Farmer Palmers
Dates: 2026 TBC
The ‘Meet Farmer Christmas Experience’ in the enchanted barn will be running in December. There are also the twilight Christmas experience on selected dates in December.
Best Ever Christmas Panto
Dates: 11th – 24th December 2026
The Best Ever Christmas Panto at the Allendale in Wimborne is back for 2026 with a new adventure.
Cool Coast Ice Rink
Dates: 2026 TBC
The indoor ice rink in Bournemouth at the Bournemouth International Centre is on until Sunday 22nd February 2026. Ice skating session times run from 11:00am until 8:45pm.
This is great thank you !!