9) What’s on in September in Dorset

Experience the Swanage Folk Festival 2026 from 11–13 September, when the Dorset seaside town comes alive with folk music, Morris dancing, workshops and family entertainment. With free street performances, ticketed concerts, a lively ceilidh and a bustling craft fair, it's one of Dorset's most popular annual music festivals and a fantastic weekend for visitors of all ages.

Westover Gardens Art and Makers Market brings local artists, designers and independent makers to Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens between May and October. Visitors can browse original artwork, jewellery, ceramics, homeware, accessories and handmade gifts in an attractive outdoor setting close to The Square and seafront. The market is free to visit and normally operates on weekends and advertised bank holidays, although visitors should check the organiser’s latest dates before travelling.

Bike Nights on Poole Quay 2026 takes place every Tuesday from 7 April to 29 September, bringing hundreds of motorcycles and thousands of visitors to Poole's historic waterfront. From classic and custom bikes to modern superbikes, this free weekly event is one of Dorset's best-loved motoring attractions, offering a fantastic atmosphere alongside the many pubs, restaurants and cafés that line Poole Quay.

Park Yoga Poole is expected to return from May to September 2027, offering free outdoor yoga sessions in the beautiful surroundings of Poole Park. Traditionally held every Sunday from 9.30am to 10.30am, the friendly one-hour classes welcome people of all ages and abilities, including complete beginners. No booking is normally required, so bring a mat or towel, some water and enjoy a relaxed morning of movement, mindfulness and community wellbeing.

Purbeck Film Festival: Cinema Under the Stars runs on selected evenings in the Summer, bringing outdoor film screenings to Corfe Castle, The Blue Pool, Knoll House Hotel, Careys Secret Garden and Langham Wine Estate. The programme includes family favourites, musicals, cult classics and thrillers, with tickets from £6.50. Visitors can bring blankets and seating for a memorable evening of open-air cinema in some of Dorset’s most atmospheric locations.

Experience Dorset County Show at Dorchester Showground on the first weekend of September. One of the county's biggest annual events, the show celebrates Dorset's farming, food and countryside with livestock competitions, equestrian displays, local food and drink, family entertainment, shopping, rural demonstrations and over 450 trade stands. Find event dates, ticket information and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved Dorset tradition.

Join the Dorset WALX Festival for four days of guided walks, workshops and outdoor adventures across the Jurassic Coast and Purbeck. Discover iconic Dorset locations including Old Harry Rocks, Corfe Castle and Dancing Ledge, with walks for all abilities, wellbeing sessions and a friendly festival atmosphere. Advance booking is required with festival passes available online.

Classic Cars on the Quay returns to Christchurch Quay in September 2027, bringing an impressive collection of historic cars, motorcycles and other vehicles to The Quomps. Visitors can wander among the displays, meet fellow motoring enthusiasts and enjoy the riverside setting free of charge. Eligible exhibitors can arrive without registering in advance, although weather and ground conditions may affect whether the event can proceed.

Experience one of Dorset's biggest cultural weekends at the free Arts by the Sea Festival in Bournemouth. This award-winning festival fills Bournemouth Gardens and the town centre with spectacular outdoor performances, live music, street theatre, art installations, dance and interactive experiences.

Celebrate Bridport Hat Festival 2026 on Saturday 5 September, one of Dorset's most colourful and quirky free events. Expect creative hats, live music, family entertainment, fun competitions, the famous mass hat photo, delicious food and a fantastic community atmosphere throughout Bridport. Find event dates, visitor information and everything you need to enjoy one of the county's most unique annual festivals.

Seafood & Sounds Festival returns to Poole on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 September 2027, bringing a free weekend of fresh seafood, live music and community celebrations to Poole Quay, Old Town and surrounding streets. This popular festival celebrates Poole's maritime heritage with local musicians, artisan traders, family entertainment and delicious coastal food. Previous editions have featured colourful parades, seafood stalls and activities throughout the town centre. Discover what to expect, where to visit and the latest programme information for 2027.

Visit the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival 2026 on 12-13 September for one of Dorset's favourite food festivals. Discover artisan cheeses, local food and drink, craft stalls, live music and family entertainment in the heart of the Blackmore Vale. Celebrating the area's rich dairy heritage, it's a must-visit event for food lovers and one of the tastiest weekends on the Dorset events calendar.