Dancing Terraces returns to Pavilion Dance South West for summer, bringing free outdoor dance sessions to the Garden Terrace beside Bournemouth’s seafront. Every Friday and Saturday evening in August, visitors can join professional dancers, musicians and DJs for styles ranging from Commercial and African dance to Bollywood, Vintage Jazz, Hip Hop, Ceilidh and Salsa. No booking or previous dance experience is required, making this a relaxed, family-friendly way to enjoy a summer evening in Bournemouth.
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August 2027
Dancing Terraces 2027 | What’s On in Bournemouth
Dancing Terraces is one of Bournemouth's most enjoyable free summer activities, bringing music, movement and community spirit to the Garden Terrace at Pavilion Dance South West.
Located close to Bournemouth's Lower Gardens and seafront, the outdoor programme transforms the terrace into a lively social dance space, where visitors are encouraged to try different styles of dancing in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Unlike traditional dance classes, Dancing Terraces is designed for everyone to enjoy, whether you're an experienced dancer, a complete beginner or simply looking for something different to do on a summer evening.
Each session introduces a different dance style, with professional instructors, DJs and live musicians helping create an uplifting atmosphere.
The event has become a popular part of Bournemouth's summer entertainment programme, bringing together families, friends, couples and visitors of different ages.
The 2027 programme has not yet been announced, but previous years give us a good idea of what visitors may be able to enjoy.
One of the highlights of Dancing Terraces is the variety of styles on offer, giving visitors opportunities to discover different rhythms, movements and musical traditions.
Previous programmes have included:
Commercial and pop dance
African dance with live drumming
Ballroom and Latin
Vintage Jazz
Hip Hop and House
Bollywood
Traditional Ceilidh dancing
Salsa
The sessions are led by experienced dancers and instructors, making it easy to follow along and get involved.
Whether you love energetic dance music or prefer something more traditional, the programme has previously offered something for a wide range of interests.
Live music is an important part of the Dancing Terraces experience, helping create a lively outdoor atmosphere throughout the evening.
Previous sessions have featured professional DJs, live percussionists and traditional folk musicians, with the music changing to match the style of dance.
From African drumming and energetic house music to Bollywood rhythms and Ceilidh bands, each evening offers a different experience.
You don't need to know how to dance to take part.
Dancing Terraces is designed to be welcoming and accessible, with instructors guiding participants through movements and encouraging everyone to join in at their own pace.
There are no formal qualifications or previous dance experience required.
Visitors can participate as much or as little as they like, whether that means dancing throughout the session or simply enjoying the music and watching others.
Dancing Terraces has traditionally welcomed visitors of all ages, making it an enjoyable activity for families looking for something different to do during the summer holidays.
Children can discover different dance styles, follow the music and enjoy the friendly atmosphere alongside adults.
With free admission at previous events, the programme has offered an accessible way to enjoy Bournemouth's cultural scene without purchasing expensive tickets.
The 2026 Dancing Terraces programme ran throughout August, with eight evenings celebrating different dance styles.
Highlights included:
Commercial Dance: Hannah Malone and DJ
African Dance: Aida Diop with live drumming
Ballroom & Latin: Lawrence James
Vintage Jazz: Ruby Adams
Hip Hop & House: Rich Smith and DJ
Bollywood: Kamalesh Borkar
Ceilidh: Murphys Lore Ceilidh Band
Salsa Party: Clare Nicholas
These sessions brought a variety of professional performers and dance instructors to the Garden Terrace.
The official Dancing Terraces 2027 line-up is awaiting announcement.
Previous editions have taken place during August, featuring different dance sessions on selected summer evenings.
The 2027 programme may include returning favourites alongside new instructors, musicians and styles.
Visitors should check Pavilion Dance South West's official website for confirmation of dates, performers and session times.
Check the latest Dancing Terraces announcements
Dancing Terraces takes place at Pavilion Dance South West, on Westover Road in central Bournemouth.
The Garden Terrace is located beside the Lower Gardens, within walking distance of Bournemouth Pier, the seafront and the town centre.
Its central location makes it easy to combine an evening of dancing with dinner, drinks or a walk along the beach.
Visitors attending previous Dancing Terraces events have been encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for dancing.
As the sessions take place outdoors, it is also worth bringing a light jacket or extra layer for cooler evenings.
Dancing Terraces is an outdoor summer event, so sessions may be affected by wet weather or unsuitable conditions.
Visitors should check the organiser's latest announcements before travelling, particularly if rain is forecast.
Pavilion Dance South West provides facilities for visitors with different accessibility requirements.
Anyone requiring specific assistance or information about access to the Garden Terrace should contact the venue directly before attending.
Dancing Terraces has not yet been officially confirmed for summer 2027.
For the latest information, contact Pavilion Dance South West or check its events calendar.
Telephone: 01202 203630
Email: info@pdsw.org.uk
Visit the Pavilion Dance South West website
View upcoming events and dance sessions
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