Dorset Festivals And Events In 2025 – The Ultimate Guide

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Are you planning a visit to Dorset and wondering what exciting events are happening this year? Dorset is home to a vibrant calendar of festivals and events, offering something for everyone.

From mouthwatering food festivals to electrifying music events and breathtaking air shows, there’s no shortage of things to do in this beautiful county.

Be sure to bookmark this page, as we’ll keep you updated with the latest Dorset festivals for 2025 as they are announced. Whether you’re a foodie eager to explore Dorset’s culinary delights, a music lover looking for live performances, or an aviation enthusiast thrilled by spectacular air displays, Dorset has an event tailored just for you.

Insider Tips for Attending Dorset Festivals

  1. Plan Ahead: Many festivals are popular and tickets sell out fast. Book your tickets and accommodation early to avoid disappointment.
  2. Public Transport: Use public transport where possible, as parking can be limited at some events.
  3. Dog-Friendly Options: Many festivals in Dorset welcome dogs. Check event details beforehand and bring water and waste bags for your furry friends.
  4. Weather Preparedness: Dorset’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, sunscreen, and waterproofs to stay comfortable.
  5. Stay Updated: Follow event organisers on social media to get the latest news and updates.

*This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase via our links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you*

Table Of Contents
  1. Insider Tips for Attending Dorset Festivals
  2. ILLUMINATE at The Blue Pool
  3. Dorchester Beerex
  4. Wareham Beerex
  5. Abbotsbury Food Fair
  6. Sherborne Abbey Festival
  7. Teddy Rocks Festival
  8. Shaftesbury Feastival
  9. Swanage Railway Diesel Gala
  10. North Dorset Cycle Ride
  11. Christchurch Cheese & Chilli Festival
  12. Magic Of Thailand Festival
  13. Dorset Blind Association's Motor Show At Lulworth Castle
  14. BeCider Seaside 20
  15. Curcus Cider & Music Festival
  16. Christchurch Food Festival
  17. Fayre In The Square
  18. Bournemouth 7's Festival
  19. Abbotsbury Swannery Food & Craft Fair
  20. Swanage Pirate Festival
  21. Corfe Castle May Fair
  22. Sherborne Castle Country Fair
  23. Swanage Fairy Festival
  24. Wessex Folk Festival
  25. The Dorset Hot Air Balloon & Music Festival
  26. World Of Love Festival
  27. Summerfest Weymouth
  28. Lyme Regis Fossil Festival
  29. Family Fest 2025
  30. Wimborne Minster Folk Festival
  31. Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival
  32. Corfe Mullen Carnival
  33. Bridport Food Festival
  34. Dorsetfest
  35. The Dorset Truck Show
  36. Bridport Beer Festival
  37. Swanage Fish Festival
  38. Harry Paye Day
  39. Swanage Railway Roads To Rail
  40. Shake & Stir Vintage Music Festival
  41. The Summer Festival
  42. Dorset Street Food Festival
  43. Weymouth Beach Rugby Fest
  44. Beaminster Festival
  45. Chickerell Steam And Vintage Show
  46. Tankfest 2025
  47. Circus Zyair
  48. Bredy Farm Festival – Bredy Reunion
  49. Dorset Volkfest
  50. Sandpolo 2025
  51. Upton Country Park Festival
  52. Swanage Jazz Festival
  53. Lyme Regis Sausage & Cider Festival
  54. Sandfest
  55. Lyme Morris Day
  56. Jurassic Fields Music Festival
  57. Xchurch Music Festival
  58. Bridport Folk Festival
  59. Shaftesbury Fringe
  60. Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week
  61. Camp Bestival 2025 – Family-Friendly Festival at Lulworth Castle
  62. Poole Harbour Festival
  63. Proms In The Park Meyrick Park
  64. Bournemouth Reggae Weekender
  65. Weymouth Food & Family Festival
  66. Littledown Family Fun Day
  67. Dorchester's Bouncy Castle Kingdom
  68. Swanage Carnival
  69. Great Dorset Chilli Festival
  70. Dorset Food And Arts Festival
  71. Lyme Regis Regatta And Carnival
  72. Gin & Rum Festival Bournemouth
  73. Lyme Splash Water Polo Sea Championship
  74. Stompin' On The Quomps
  75. Weymouth Comic Con And Gaming Summer Festival
  76. Beach Fest Bournemouth
  77. Christchurch Carnival
  78. Bridport Carnival
  79. Weymouth Carnival
  80. Gillingham And Shaftesbury Show
  81. Purbeck Valley Folk Festival
  82. Vdub At The Pub Festival
  83. Dorchester Cider Festival
  84. Great Dorset Steam Fair
  85. Melplash Agricultural Show
  86. BeCider Seasider 21
  87. Lyme Regis Folk Festival
  88. Dog, Sausage & Cider Festival
  89. End Of The Road Festival
  90. Bournemouth Air Festival
  91. Swanage Railway Classic And Steam Vehicle Show
  92. Dorset County Show
  93. Bournemouth Vegan Festival
  94. B-Side Festival
  95. Swanage Folk Festival
  96. Seafest – The Dorset Seafood Festival
  97. Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival
  98. Inside Out Dorset Festival
  99. Shaftesbury Carnival
  100. Gillingham Carnival
  101. Swanage Blues Festival
  102. Oktoberfest Shaftesbury
  103. Weymouth Pirate Fest
  104. The Gin To My Tonic Festival
  105. Poole Beer Festival
  106. Dorset Food & Drink Winter Food Fair
  107. Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland
  108. Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival
  109. Illuminate At Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
  110. Weymouth's Steampunk Christmas Weekend
Festivals and Events in Dorset

Dorset Festivals And Events In January

ILLUMINATE at The Blue Pool

Dates: 9th January – 23rd February 2025
Location: The Blue Pool, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5AR

Illuminate at The Blue Pool is returning in 2025 after the huge success of its 2024 event. This magical light display features over 1km of professionally designed illuminations, transforming the woodland trails into a dazzling spectacle.

Discover the stunning deep waters of The Blue Pool and the ancient woodland, with carefully chosen stops along the trails offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Illuminate at The Blue Pool and immerse yourself in this unique, winter wonderland event.

More information

Dorchester Beerex 2025

Dorchester Beerex

Dates: 31st January – 1st February 2025

Located at Dorchester Corn Exchange, your ticket price include a commemorative glass, programme and two halves of beer or cider. The evening sessions also have live music.

More information

Related post – What’s on in Dorset in January


Dorset Festivals And Events In February

Related post – What’s on in Dorset in February


Dorset Festivals And Events In March


faded lights

Related post – What’s on in Dorset in March


Dorset Festivals And Events In April


Wareham Beerex

Dates: 18th – 19th April 2025

As well as raising money for local charities, you’ll find over 35 real ales from around the country. There’s also local ciders and local gin as well.

Location: Wareham Masonic Hall, Howards ​Lane, Wareham, Dorset BH20 4HU

More information


Abbotsbury Food Fair

Date: 18th – 19th April 2025

In association with Dorset Food & Drink go along to the Abbotsbury Food Fair. Ticket includes entry to the Subtropical Gardens.

More information

Related post – What’s on in Dorset in April


Dorset Festivals And Events In May

Sherborne Abbey Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Sherborne Abbey Festival is an annual, week-long celebration of music, with events held in a variety of locations in and around the beautiful town of Sherborne, Dorset.

Each year the Festival welcomes people from all over the UK to experience a wide range of performances and genres; from opera, choral and classical music to jazz, swing and more!

More information


Teddy Rocks Festival

Dates: 2nd – 4th May 2025

Location: Charisworth Farm, Blandford, Dorset

One of the family friendly Dorset music festivals in Blandford. This is a three day festival raising money for the Teddy20 charity. There’s plenty of activities and music through the weekend. Camping options are also available if you wish to stay on site for the weekend.

More information


Shaftesbury Feastival

Dates: 4th May 2025

Enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend in Dorset at Shaftesbury Feastival. Stalls will be lined up along the length of town with lots of local food and drink.

There’s also be live cooking demonstrations outside Shaftesbury Town Hall. Don’t forget about the Cheese Races up Gold Hill! 

More information


Swanage Railway Diesel Gala

Dates: 9th – 11th May 2025

Details TBA

More information


North Dorset Cycle Ride

Date: 18th May 2025

Choose from the family fun ride to the 50 mile bike ride and 75 mile bike ride across Dorset. The event is in aid of Prostate Cancer UK finishing on Gold Hill in Shaftesbury.

More information


Christchurch Cheese & Chilli Festival

Dates: 17th – 18th May 2025

Location: Parley Lane, Christchurch, BH23 6AD

The award winning Cheese and Chilli Festival is the only show in the UK which celebrates both Cheese and Chilli within a festival setting. Expect a chilli eating competition, food challenges, cooking demonstrations, family friendly entertainment and plenty more.

More information


Magic Of Thailand Festival

Date: 17th – 18th May 2025

Location: Baiter Park, Poole

You can expect to see live cooking demonstrations, authentic Thai cuisine food stalls, Thai boxing demonstrations, kids rides and plenty more. There’s also the I’m British Get Me Out of Here! eating competition.

More information


Dorset Blind Association’s Motor Show At Lulworth Castle

Dates: 2025 TBC

Dorset Blind Association’s prestigious Motor Show returns to Lulworth Castle for its 8th year on the 12th May.

The show ground will offer a variety of artisan stalls selling local produce and handmade goods, food and drinks. There will also be live entertainment and a kids area with activities.

More information


BeCider Seaside 20

Dates: 23rd – 25th May 2025

The first Bredy Farm festival of 2025 is on the May Bank Holiday Weekend. Featuring many local, national and international touring artists. Children and dogs welcome

More information


Curcus Cider & Music Festival

Dates: 23rd – 25th May 2025

This is a popular grassroots festival at Myncen Farm in Dorset. The 2025 lineup includes Mad Dog Macrae, Dub Pistols and more.

There will also be a DJ tent, camp fire, kids DIY Den area, sports day and lots more.

More information


Christchurch Food Festival

Dates: 24th – 26th May 2025

Location: Christchurch Quay

Lots of different food and drink to tempt you. With pop up restaurants on the quay in the days leading up to the festival weekend. Why not enjoy one of the May Bank holiday festivals in Dorset with a visit to Christchurch.

More information

food tasting samples

Fayre In The Square

Dates: 2025 TBC

Location: Hope Square, Weymouth

A weekend of live music and great food around Hope Square in Weymouth, working with Weymouth Rotary to raise money for local charities

More information


Bournemouth 7’s Festival

Dates: 23rd – 25th May 2025

Location: Chapel Gate, East Parley, Christchurch, BH23 6BL

This is a popular festival in Dorset. It’s the World’s largest sport & music festival which attracts over 30,000 people to the coast every year.

More information

festival crowd

Abbotsbury Swannery Food & Craft Fair

Dates: 24th – 25th May 2025

Enjoy a weekend of fun at Abbotsbury Swannery this Summer. There will be plenty of food, drink and artisan craft stalls provided by Dorset Food & Drink. You can also enjoy the swan maze, pedal go karts, and arts and crafts.

More information


Swanage Pirate Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

A full two days of piracy, living history, skirmishes and stalls.

More information


Corfe Castle May Fair

Date: 2025 TBC

The Corfe Castle May Fair takes place on May Bank Holiday Monday in the castle grounds from 10:00 – 16:00. There will be plenty to enjoy including a fun dog show, raffle, refreshments, traditional fair games, plant stalls, book stalls, bric a brac and lots more.

More information


Sherborne Castle Country Fair

Date: 26th May 2025

The Sherborne Castle Country Fair offer a wide programme of events, country activities, stands and entertainment. There’s also one of the largest Rare Breed Shows in the country.

For one day each year Sherborne Castle is transformed into a fun-packed Country Fair with attractions, entertainment and activities for all the family.

More information


Swanage Fairy Festival

Dates: 30th – 31st May 2025

Location: Sandpit Field, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 1AW

Enjoy a spectacular weekend of family fun that includes enchanting entertainment like a live mermaid underwater spectacular, live music and dancing, and much more!

More information

Related post – What’s on in Dorset in May


Dorset Festivals And Events In June

Wessex Folk Festival

Dates: 31st May – 1st June 2025

Location: Weymouth Harbourside

The Wessex Folk festival, or otherwise known as the Weymouth Folk festival kicks off with a pre festival warm up night on Friday 31st May.

It’s one of the biggest, free festivals in England, drawing lots of crowds each year. You can expect to see around 30 live stage performances over the weekend, and plenty of stalls and entertainment.

More information

Related post – parking in Poole


The Dorset Hot Air Balloon & Music Festival

Dates: 6th – 7th June 2025

The hot air balloon festival will be taking place in Dorset 2025. The line up includes a night glow show, fireworks, funfair and bars.

There is also live music, on site camping and morning balloon flights.

More information


World Of Love Festival

Dates: 7th – 8th June 2025

Location: Kings Park, Bournemouth

There will be live performances, games and activities, creative projects and international food and drink.

More information


Summerfest Weymouth

Date: 7th June 2025

A fun filled day for all the family. You can expect entertainment, sports tournaments, live music, soft play, food, drink, farmers markets, stalls and more. There’s even a firework display at the end of the day.

More information


Lyme Regis Fossil Festival

Dates: 14th – 15th June 2025

Location: Marine Parade, Lyme Regis

There’s plenty going on at the Lyme Regis fossil festival. Including walks, talks, theatre, music, exhibits and lots of hands-on science. Don’t forget to partake in some fossil hunting as well.

More information


Family Fest 2025

Dates: 30th May – 1st June 2025

Location: The Meadows (Julians Field), Julians Road, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1EF

Set within the stunning Wimborne countryside across 12 acres of working farmland.

There will be live music across the two days, food and drink stalls, kids valley, funfair, amusements and a charity dog show. Weekend camping is also available.

More information


Wimborne Minster Folk Festival

Dates: 6th – 8th June 2025

Location: Wimborne Minster

There’s plenty of things to do in Wimborne across the Folk Festival weekend. Live music is across the town in the pubs and bars. During the day there’s lots of family friendly entertainment, activities and shows.

More information


Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival

Dates: 14th – 15th June 2025

You’ll discover local traders with stalls providing both food and arts and crafts. Celebrity and local chefs holding demonstrations of their skills together with music and entertainment for the whole family.

More information


Corfe Mullen Carnival

Date: 14th June 2025

Visit the annual village carnival held in the parish of Corfe Mullen, Dorset. The event supports local charities and good causes. There’s also FREE entry.

More information


Bridport Food Festival

Dates: 14th June 2025

Location: Asker Meadow, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4DL

Taste trials, food, drink, activities for the kids and more. There’s plenty going on at the Bridport food festival.

More information


Dorsetfest

Dates: 27th – 28th June 2025

Location: Warren Farm, Bulbarrow DT11 0HQ

A family-friendly music festival set in the heart of the Dorset. The two-day event offers a great range of music, entertainment and food stalls for everyone to enjoy.

There is also camping available for those who want to make the most of the weekend, music and gorgeous setting! All of the money raised at DorsetFest goes directly to the three local churches and The Weldmar Hospice.

More information


The Dorset Truck Show

Dates: 2025 TBC

Enjoy classic and vintage trucks as well as entertainment throughout the days. There will also be music areas along with kids free entertainment zone and trade stalls for all the family!

More information


Bridport Beer Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

🍺 Friday Night and all day Saturday! 
🍺 Heaps of Beer
🍺 Bags of Cider
🍺 Tons of Lager
🍺 Fountains of Pimms
🍺 A stage full of bands
🍺 A field full of food

More information


Swanage Fish Festival

Dates: 21st – 22nd June 2025

Celebrate all things ‘fishy’ with a new festival that features food, fishing and fun. There will be things for all ages to enjoy and it won’t just be about eating. There will be plenty to join in with as well as to watch.

More information


Harry Paye Day

Date: 14th June 2025

Take a trip to Poole Quay for the annual Harry Paye Day in June. There’s a pirate parade, pirate fancy dress and loads of entertainment. There’s a large multi storey car park close to the quay in Poole.

More information


Swanage Railway Roads To Rail

Dates: 2025 TBC

There will be a long weekend of steam-powered demonstrations and vintage fairground fun. You’ll also find traction engines, live music and more.

More information


Shake & Stir Vintage Music Festival

Dates: 28th – 29th June 2025

Location: Fisherman’s Walk, Bournemouth

Step back in time by listening to some of the great artists and bands who will be performing over the weekend – with live music from the 20’s – 70’s there is something for everyone.

More information


The Summer Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

The 5-day festival located at Sculpture By The Lakes incorporates not only 60 crafters and makers but all things for alfresco living. With inspiration from the Fire and Food outdoor kitchen, you will be able to enjoy BBQ demonstrations and all aspects of outdoor living too.

More information


Dorset Street Food Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Dorset Street Food Festival is making its way back to Baiter Park, Poole for three days!

From Friday 28th – Sunday 30th June, 20 of the UK’s top street food traders will be coming together to cook up some of the finest food from cuisines around the world!

More information


Weymouth Beach Rugby Fest

Dates: 2025 TBC

The Weymouth Beach Rugby Festival offers a weekend of sun, sand, music and tag Rugby for all abilities. Featuring Mens, Ladies, Mixed/Family teams from across the UK, playing 5aside.

More information


Beaminster Festival

Dates: 28th June – 6th July 2025

Set amidst the rolling hills of West Dorset, very near the Jurassic coast, the small but vibrant town of Beaminster plays host to the annual Beaminster Festival of music, theatre, literature and art.

Performers include those of international standing as well as young artists, early in their careers.

More information


Chickerell Steam And Vintage Show

Dates: 2025 TBC

There’s live music, beer tents and steam engines as the Chickerell Steam and Vintage Show.

More information


Tankfest 2025

Dates: 27th – 29th June 2025

See the stars of the Museum’s collection running alongside guest tanks and vehicles from the British Army.

There are also lectures from tank experts and the chance to explore Living History encampments. See the world’s best collection of tanks inside The Tank Museum.

More information

Related post – What’s on in Dorset in June


Dorset Festivals And Events In July

Circus Zyair

The Quomps, Christchurch

Dates: 1st – 5th July 2025

Circus Zyair is proud to present a colourful and action packed hour and a half show with high energy acts from all over the world. The 2024 tour was a dazzling combination of circus, music and laughter.

With a heated big top, comfy seating and an electric atmosphere from start to finish Circus Zyair promises to be a truly magical experience for the whole family

More information


Bredy Farm Festival – Bredy Reunion

Dates: 10th – 13th July 2025

Bredy Reunion will be a weekend of non-stop dance parties featuring some of the best DJ and live outfits out there.

More information


Dorset Volkfest

Dates: 11th – 14th July 2025

Volkfest has been an annual festival in Wareham since 2013. There’s plenty of family entertainment across the weekend, a DJ/dance marquee and stunt shows to amaze you.

If you’re a lover of VW’s then this weekend festival in Dorset is not to be missed. Weekend camping is available as well as day tickets.

More information


Sandpolo 2025

Dates: 11th – 12th July 2025

The polo at Sandbanks (the British Beach Polo Championships) is the largest beach polo event in the world. When polo is played in an enclosed arena it has been referred to as ‘Ice Hockey on Horse Back’.

More information


Upton Country Park Festival

Dates: 4th – 5th July 2025

Friday 4th July is Ladies Night with tributes to Pink, Dua Lipa, Little Mix, Beyonce and Dolly Parton.

Saturday 5th July is Super Family Singalong featuring tunes of Abba, Queen, Foo Fighters, Taylor Swift and more.

More information


Swanage Jazz Festival

Date: 11th – 13th July 2025

There will be over 40 bands covering a wide range of styles. Check out the website for ticket information and schedule.

More information


Lyme Regis Sausage & Cider Festival

Dates: 5th July 2025

The annual Lyme Regis football club sausage and cider festival will include more than 20 ciders, sizzling sausages and other refreshments. There will also be a Pimms tent, BBQ, ice creams and a raffle.

More information


Sandfest

Date: 13th July 2025

Location: Sandbanks Beach, Poole

This boutique beach festival in Dorset returns for its 8th year. The festival attracts around 5,000 people for good music on the beach.

More information


Lyme Morris Day

Date: 2025 TBC

Lyme Morris are holding there annual Morris Day on Saturday 16th July. A fantastic fun day on the seafront in Lyme Regis.

More information


Jurassic Fields Music Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Jurassic Fields brings together not only some amazing top acts from around the country but will be showcasing the best music, comedy, food and entertainment the local area has to offer.

More information



Xchurch Music Festival

Dates: 18th – 20th July 2025

What can you expect at Xchurch Music Festival on Christchurch Quay? There’s local artists and bands, DJ tent and fun fair rides for all ages. There’s also a kids zone for the little people.

More information


Bridport Folk Festival

Dates: 25th – 27th July 2025

Location: Bridport

There will be music, Morris dancing, stalls, entertainment and plenty more at Bridport Folk Festival.

More information


Shaftesbury Fringe

Dates: 18th – 20th July 2025

Location: Shaftesbury

there will be music, comedy, dance, theatre and everything in between. The venues will change across the town of Shaftesbury during the event.

More information


Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week

Dates: 2025 TBC

One of Lyme Regis‘ biggest attractions is the RNLI lifeboat week in July. It’s a whole week of fun, games, entertainment music and displays for all the family to enjoy. Expect to see the bath tub race, illuminated boats, a crab fishing competition and the spectacular Army parachute display team The Red Devils.

More information


camp bestival lanyard

Camp Bestival 2025 – Family-Friendly Festival at Lulworth Castle

Dates: 31st July – 3rd August 2025
Location: Lulworth Castle, Dorset

Camp Bestival 2025 is a must-visit family-friendly festival in Dorset, offering four days of live music, fairground rides, art and crafts, and much more. Set within the stunning grounds of Lulworth Castle, this festival provides a diverse range of activities to enjoy, from relaxing in front of the Castle stage to taking part in a rejuvenating yoga class.

Don’t forget your festival trolley

Lulworth Castle is located near Lulworth Cove and the famous Jurassic Coast, making it the perfect base to extend your visit and explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.

If camping isn’t for you, day passes are also available for a more flexible experience.

Read a full review of Camp Bestival 

The 2025 Camp Bestival lineup TBC

More information


Learn more about Camp Bestival and plan your visit.


Poole Harbour Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Alongside a great lineup of music acts, there’s also free children’s entertainment, fire shows, circus skills, street food, crafts stalls and real ales and ciders.

More information


Proms In The Park Meyrick Park

Dates: 2025 TBC

Date: 26th July 2024- Classical Extravaganza

An evening of the best symphonic music in the world including music by Rimsky-Korsakov, Grieg and Saint-Saëns, a quick trip to the cinema courtesy of John Williams and Hans Zimmer, and many more symphonic masterpieces. The evening reaches a colourful climax with Wagner’s Ride of the Valkyries, accompanied by a stunning pyrotechnic and fireworks display!

Date: 27th July 2024 – Disco Symphonic Spectacular

Relive the magical sounds of the seventies in this trip back to a time of big hair and platform shoes, wide lapels and Denim aftershave! Crammed full of Disco tracks by the Bee Gees, Earth Wind and Fire, Boney M, Sister Sledge, Donna Summer, Kool and the Gang and many more – with fireworks and pyrotechnics galore!

More information


Bournemouth Reggae Weekender

Dates: 25th – 27th July 2025

Location: Kings Park, Boscombe

The Bournemouth Reggae Weekender is a celebration of African-Caribbean music.

More information


Weymouth Food & Family Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Location: Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth

This two day family friendly festival in Weymouth has lots going on. There will be cooking demonstrations, companion dog shows, live music, the human stunt man, food and drink producers as well as a variety of arts and craft vendors.

More information


Littledown Family Fun Day

Date: 27th July 2025

Location: Littledown, Chaseside, Bournemouth

There will be plenty of local talent showcasing gymnastics, taekwondo and cheerleading. There will also be a Punch and Judy show, magic acts and a fun fair.

Stay refreshed at the licensed bars and enjoy a BBQ and wood fired pizzas. There’s also plenty of other food stalls available too.

More information


Dorchester’s Bouncy Castle Kingdom

Dates: 2025 TBC

The Dorchester Bouncy Castle Kingdom will be held at Poundbury Park in Dorchester. There is a designated under 5’s soft play zone as well as 15 large bouncy castles. There will be refreshments and toilets available on site too.

More information


Swanage Carnival

Dates: 26th July – 2nd August 2025

Location: Swanage

Swanage Carnival is a packed week of entertainment attracting around 250,000 visitors each year. There is something for everyone including air displays, live music, sporting events, games and competitions.

There’s also three magnificent firework displays and not forgetting one of the longest Carnival processions.

More information

Related post – What’s on in Dorset in July


Dorset Festivals And Events In August


Great Dorset Chilli Festival

Dates: 2nd – 3rd August 2025

Location: Stock Gaylard Estate, Sturminster Newton, DT10 2BG

If you’re a chilli lover, then the Great Dorset Chilli Festival is a must visit. There will be stalls selling all things chilli, from pepper plants to cayenne condiments.

Plenty of music, chilli cook-off competition, chilli eating competitions and spicy street food. There’s also local ice creams to cool the mouth and local beers.

More information


Dorset Food And Arts Festival

Date: 2025 TBC

Location: The Great Field, Poundbury

Pop along to the FREE ‘pop-up’ festival market in Poundbury. There will be local produce and artisan crafts with over 45 stalls.

More information


Lyme Regis Regatta And Carnival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Location: Marine Parade, Lyme Regis

There’s loads going on for the whole family during Lyme Regis Carnival Week. From the Walk of Light Torchlight Procession, Carnival Procession and fireworks. There’s also a duck race, beach treasure hunt, open air film screenings, beach sports and regatta.

More information


Gin & Rum Festival Bournemouth

Dates: 2025 TBC

Located in the Pavilion Theatre in Bournemouth, the Gin & Rum festival has lots going on. There’s over 120 gins and rums, samples and tasters. There’s also a tequilla and cocktail bar, live music and a DJ>

More information


Lyme Splash Water Polo Sea Championship

Dates: 2025 TBC

This is the UK’s largest Water Polo Sea Championship taking place at The Cobb, Lyme Regis this Summer.

More information


Stompin’ On The Quomps

Dates: 2025 TBC

There will be a great line up of professional jazz musicians, food traders and bar. You don’t need a ticket and admission is by donation which goes to keeping the event running each year.

More information


Weymouth Comic Con And Gaming Summer Festival

Date: 2025 TBC

The Comic Con and Gaming Festival in Weymouth is located in Dorchester Road, Weymouth. There will be plenty of exhibitors, vendors, Cosplay, gaming, comic artists and more.

More information


Beach Fest Bournemouth

Dates: 2025 TBC

Visit Bournemouth for Beach Fest and see the celebrity beach soccer tournament and volleyball championships. There’s also a live beach DJ, refreshments and entertainment.

More information


Christchurch Carnival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Enjoy a series of displays and fun activities on the quay, as well as music, events, fireworks and a funfair. 

More information


Bridport Carnival

Dates: 12025 TBC

Carnival Week will be held on the week commencing Monday 12th August, with the Carnival procession on Saturday 17th, and the Torchlight Procession on Sunday 18th.

More information


Weymouth Carnival

Date: 2025 TBC

Weymouth Carnival is back after a 6 year hiatus. Expect lively parades, fireworks, live music, food stalls and loads of family friendly activities.

More information


Gillingham And Shaftesbury Show

Date: 2025 TBC

Location: Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, North Dorset, SP7 9PL

This large event in Dorset hosts cattle, dog shows, horses, art classes, displays and so much more.

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Purbeck Valley Folk Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Purbeck Valley Folk Festival is located on a farm and it’s “how festivals used to be”. A family friendly festival in Dorset that great for kids and adults alike. It’s small enough to be able to wander around and not lose your friends! The stages and bar are in barns, which mean that you’re dry if it rains, but there’s a lot of grass around to sit on in the sunshine.

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Vdub At The Pub Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Location: Wimborne, Dorset

A family camping festival of dubs, pubs and hot tubs. There’s a packed entertainment schedule which offer many of the activities free of charge.

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Dorchester Cider Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

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Great Dorset Steam Fair

Dates: 2025 TBC

Location: A354, Tarrant Hinton, Blandford Forum DT11 8HX

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Melplash Agricultural Show

Dates: 2025 TBC

Featuring horse and livestock competitions along with rural crafts, local
produce, trade stands, agricultural machinery and a fun day out for all the family!

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BeCider Seasider 21

Dates: 22nd – 24th August 2025

This August Bank holiday festival in Dorset welcomes dogs and children. There will be local, national and international touring artists over three days.

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Lyme Regis Folk Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

The Lyme Folk weekend is the late Summer festival by the sea in Dorset. There’s music on the seafront stage and also in the Marine Theatre.

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Dog, Sausage & Cider Festival

Dates: 24th August 2025

Alongside the sausage throwing competition, there will be live music and plenty of fund for the kids. Craft stalls, small animal holding and plenty of refreshments at The Springhead.

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End Of The Road Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

End of The Road Festival is located at Larmer Tree Gardens, near Blandford, Dorset. Campsites open on Thursday from 11am with the festival arena opening on Thursday lunchtime.

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Bournemouth Air Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Location: Bournemouth Coastline

See a large display of aircraft from RAF Typhoon and more in the sky. On land there are fairground rides, food and drink stalls, bands and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. Sadly there wont be any RAF Red Arrows in 2024

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Related post – What’s on in Dorset in August


Dorset Festivals And Events In September

Swanage Railway Classic And Steam Vehicle Show

Dates: 2025 TBC

There is something for everyone at this show with a varied selection of vintage, modern and custom motorbikes. There’s also classic cars, tractors, vintage campervans, commercial vehicles and stationary engines.

Free parking is available as well as trade stalls and displays.

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Dorset County Show

Dates: 2025 TBC

Location: Dorchester Showground

There will be plenty of livestock, horses, show jumping, horticulture and blacksmiths. Not forgetting the trade stands, rabbits, poultry, bee’s & honey and food and drink. You’ll also find the World’s biggest Monster trucks in the main ring twice a day.

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Bournemouth Vegan Festival

Dates: 6th September 2025

Location: Citygate Centre,138A Holdenhurst Rd, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH8 8AS

60+ fantastic stalls, world food caterers, exciting cookery demos, inspirational talks, interactive workshops, yoga and children’s activities running throughout the day from 10.30am – 4.00pm

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B-Side Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

B-side Festival is returning to the Isle of Portland this summer with an exciting variety of art installations united under the driving theme ‘Common Lands’ which invites visitors to explore their relationship with the stunning landscape.

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Swanage Folk Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Location: Swanage

Enjoy a weekend of music concerts, traditional dance displays, dance & music workshops, children’s activities and music sessions.

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SeafestThe Dorset Seafood Festival

Dates: Returning in 2026

Location: Weymouth Peninsula

You may know the festival as Weymouth seafood festival. The Dorset seafood festival has been rebranded to Seafest. Taste fresh seafood from 100 stalls, with plenty of family entertainment on offer throughout.

Top chefs are on location showcasing their skills with locally sourced ingredients.

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Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival

Dates: 13th – 14th September 2025

Location: Sturminster Newton (DT10 1DQ)

If you’re a cheese lover the Sturminster Newton cheese festival is not to be missed. There is plenty of children’s entertainment as well as demonstrations, food producers, arts and crafts available.

It’s not just cheese on offer, you can discover local chillies and jams, ciders, coffees and gins to name a few.

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Inside Out Dorset Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Inside Out Dorset is an international outdoor arts festival that takes place across the
county every two years. Celebrating Dorset, promoting the natural landscape and
sense of place.

Some of Dorset’s most remarkable urban and rural spots are transformed with experiences that touch hearts and minds like nothing else.

Performing arts should be accessible for all – no matter what your experience or background. Therefore, Inside Out Dorset is free to attend.


Shaftesbury Carnival

Dates: 2025 TBC

For over a 140 years Shaftesbury carnival has brought a variety of colour and light to the high street for one day a year. The carnival has heritage surrounding the hospital and they celebrate the carnival with a week of events. 

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Related post – What’s on in Dorset in September


Dorset Festivals And Events In October

Gillingham Carnival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Carnival processions are on 5th October 2024 and there are plenty of other activities and events happening through the week.

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Swanage Blues Festival

Dates: 3rd – 5th October 2025

Enjoy a weekend of open mic, Blues musicians and headline performers across multiple venues.

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Oktoberfest Shaftesbury

Dates: 2025 TBC

Dig out your lederhosen or dirndl and visit Shaftesbury for their biggest German inspired bier festival of the year!

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Weymouth Pirate Fest

Dates: 2025 TBC

There are piratey shennanigans which begin on Friday 4th October and last until Sunday 6th October. You’ll discover bands playing all day and during the eveing on Saturday too.

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The Gin To My Tonic Festival

Dates: 2025 TBC

Location: St Stephen’s Church Bournemouth

The Gin To My Tonic Festival brings together over 100 different gins from across the UK and beyond. Each gin stocked behind the bars has been selected based on outstanding craftsmanship, delightful flavour and the most enjoyable drinking experiences. The festival is here to take you on a journey of gin discovery!

Tickets includes a Gin Explorer guide, Gin Copa glass, glass, bag and pen, and a Stainless Steel straw.

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Poole Beer Festival

St Aldhelms Centre, Poole Road, Branksome BH12 1AD

Dates: 2025 TBC

The beer festival is open between 11:00 – 15:30 and 18:30 – 23:00 on both days. Tickets are £10 in advance only. This includes a glass, programme & 2 x ½ pints beer.

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Related post – What’s on in Dorset in October


Dorset Festivals And Events In November

Dorset Food & Drink Winter Food Fair

Dates: 2025 TBC

The Dorset Food & Drink Winter Fair is back at Athelhampton House for 2024!
Expect a great line up of Dorset food, drink, artists, and makers, to bring you a weekend of festive shopping and gift inspirations.

Visit whether it’s raining or not as most of the stalls are under cover in the event marquee.

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Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland

Dates: 15th November – 31st December 2024

Visit Bournemouth from 15th November for a great festive day and evening out. You can enjoy the thousands of illuminations in the Lower Gardens, as well as the open air ice rink, Alpine Christmas market, and plenty of festive fun.

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Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival

Dates: 23rd November 2024 – 1st January 2025

Enter a world of Christmas in Poole this year, with this FREE Christmas attraction! Be prepared to be dazzled as thousands of twinkling lights take you on a nautical journey that starts at the gateways to Poole; the Twin Sails Bridge, Hunger Hill and The Lighthouse.

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Illuminate At Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

Buller’s Way, Abbotsbury, Dorset, DT3 4LA

Dates: 22nd November 2024 – 4th January 2025

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 22nd of November to the 4th of January with last entries between 7.00pm and 7.15pm.

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Related post – What’s on in Dorset in November


Dorset Festivals And Events In December

Weymouth’s Steampunk Christmas Weekend

Dates: 6th – 8th December 2024

You can expect activities including a fashion show, variety performance, market and more happening across the Steampunk Christmas weekend in Weymouth.

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Related post – What’s on in Dorset in December


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