What’s On by Month in Dorset

Experience Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Week 2026 from 31 July to 8 August, one of Dorset's biggest free summer events. Enjoy nine days of family entertainment, spectacular fireworks, the Torchlight Procession, beach games, live music, quirky competitions, Candles Down the River and the colourful Grand Carnival Procession. Find event dates, visitor information and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved Jurassic Coast tradition.

Held weekly on Christchurch High Street, Christchurch Market offers an excellent selection of local produce and products. The market takes place every Monday 9am-4pm, and is a great way to indulge in some retail therapy.

Experience Camp Bestival Dorset 2027, at Lulworth Castle. One of the UK's leading family festivals, Camp Bestival combines headline live music, family entertainment, comedy, wellness, camping and children's activities in a spectacular Dorset setting. Find event dates, ticket information, camping options and everything you need to plan your visit to this award-winning Dorset festival.

Celebrate the Poole Harbour Festival 2027 from 30 July to 1 August at Baiter Park. One of Dorset's biggest family-friendly music festivals, the weekend features over 60 live acts alongside family entertainment, camping, street food, craft stalls and funfair attractions. Find event dates, tickets, venue information and everything you need to plan your visit.

Enjoy Swanage Carnival 2026, taking place from 25 July to 1 August on Dorset's stunning Jurassic Coast. One of the county's most popular free summer events, the carnival features over 100 family-friendly activities, including the famous carnival procession, spectacular fireworks, air displays, live music, beach events and sporting competitions. Find event dates, visitor information and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved Dorset tradition.

Bridport Folk Festival 2027 returns in July with three days of live folk music, traditional dance and family entertainment across Bridport. Featuring headline concerts, Morris dancing, workshops, storytelling and performances in venues throughout the town, the festival is one of Dorset's best-loved summer celebrations of folk culture. Whether you're a lifelong folk fan or simply looking for a vibrant weekend atmosphere, there's something for all ages to enjoy.

The Poole Bay 100 returns in June 2027 for a high-speed day of offshore powerboat racing across Poole Bay and Bournemouth’s coastline. Forming Round 2 of the UKOPRA Offshore Powerboat Racing Championship, the event brought powerful racing boats, professional crews and multiple racing classes to the south coast. Spectators could watch the fleet leave Poole Quay before racing began offshore, with Bournemouth seafront offering some of the best views of the action throughout the afternoon.

Enjoy Stompin' on the Quomps 2026, Christchurch's much-loved free smooth jazz festival, taking place on Saturday 1 August at The Quomps. Celebrate 30 years of live music with talented jazz performers, delicious food and drink, a welcoming family atmosphere and stunning riverside views. Find event dates, admission details, opening times and everything you need to plan your visit to one of Dorset's most relaxing summer music events.

Dancing Terraces returns to Pavilion Dance South West for summer 2026, 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.

Dorset Food & Arts Festival 2026 takes place on Saturday 1 August at The Great Field in Poundbury, bringing together more than 80 local food producers, artists, craftspeople and artisan makers for a free community festival. Visitors can enjoy award-winning Dorset food and drink, live music, handmade gifts, local artwork and street food while celebrating the very best of the county's independent businesses in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Visit the Mudeford Arts Festival in July 2027 at Mudeford Quay, Christchurch. This free Dorset arts festival celebrates local creativity with artists, handmade crafts, live music, demonstrations, food and family-friendly entertainment in a beautiful harbourside setting. It's one of Christchurch's most popular summer events and a wonderful weekend for visitors of all ages.

The Dorset Seafood Festival 2027 is expected to return to Weymouth Harbour in early July, celebrating the very best of Dorset's seafood, local food and coastal culture. While the 2027 dates and programme are yet to be confirmed, visitors can look forward to fresh seafood, chef demonstrations, artisan stalls and live entertainment at one of Dorset's most popular free festivals. This page will be updated as soon as organisers release further information.

The Tolpuddle Martyrs' Festival returns to Dorset in July 2027, bringing together history, live music, inspiring speakers and family-friendly entertainment in the historic village of Tolpuddle. With a packed programme of talks, workshops, camping and the iconic Sunday march and rally, it's one of Dorset's most unique summer festivals celebrating the legacy of the Tolpuddle Martyrs.

The Dorset Blind Association Motor Show 2027 is expected to return to Lulworth Castle in May, bringing together an impressive display of classic cars, supercars and family entertainment in support of a fantastic local charity. While the 2027 date and programme are yet to be confirmed, visitors can look forward to one of Dorset's favourite motoring events. This page will be updated as soon as official details are released.

Celebrate Bourne Free Pride Festival 2027 in Bournemouth, with three days of live entertainment, community celebrations and family-friendly activities at Meyrick Park. Featuring the annual Pride Parade, live music, market stalls and a free Family Fun Day, it's one of Dorset's biggest and most colourful summer festivals.

Step back in time at the Shake & Stir Vintage Music Festival 2027, taking place at Fisherman’s Walk in Southbourne in June. This year’s special Armed Forces Weekender combines live vintage music, swing and jive dancing, military heritage displays, an Armed Forces parade, family entertainment and independent traders. With free admission and activities for all ages, Shake & Stir is one of Southbourne’s most distinctive community events.

Grooves on the Green is expected to return to Ashley Cross, Poole, in 2027 for another family-friendly celebration of live music, entertainment, food and community spirit. Official dates, tickets and performers have not yet been announced, but previous festivals have featured music across two stages, children’s activities, independent traders and a wide selection of food and drink. This listing will be updated when the organisers confirm the full Grooves on the Green 2027 programme.

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.

Visit the Cattistock Countryside Show 2026 on Sunday 19 July for one of Dorset's best-loved agricultural events. Enjoy livestock competitions, equestrian displays, the famous Dorset Knob Throwing Championship, vintage vehicles, local food, shopping and family entertainment in the heart of the Dorset countryside. Advance tickets are available, making this a fantastic summer day out for all ages.

Dorset Mela Festival returned to Poole Park in June 2027 for one of Dorset’s largest multicultural celebrations. The free festival brought communities together for a full day of South Asian music, dance, food, arts and entertainment, with live performances, cultural showcases, international food stalls, handicrafts, henna and family activities. Designed as an inclusive celebration for all backgrounds and ages, Dorset Mela offered visitors the chance to experience different traditions, flavours and performances in the heart of Poole.

Car Nights on Poole Quay returns for summer 2026, bringing a different collection of cars to Poole’s waterfront every Friday evening throughout July and August. From British classics and supercars to American hot rods, Minis, Japanese cars and air-cooled Volkswagens, each week has its own theme. Visitors can wander along the Quay, admire the vehicles and enjoy the atmosphere alongside Poole Harbour, with plenty of nearby pubs, restaurants and cafés for an evening out.

Turn up the heat at the Great Dorset Chilli Festival 2026, taking place on 1-2 August at the beautiful Stock Gaylard Estate near Sturminster Newton. One of Dorset's favourite food festivals, the event features chilli eating competitions, over 125 artisan traders, cooking demonstrations, live music, family entertainment and delicious street food. Find event dates, ticket prices and everything you need to plan your visit.

Illuminate 2027 is expected to return to The Blue Pool near Wareham, bringing one of Dorset's most enchanting winter light trails back to the county. While official dates and ticket details are yet to be announced, visitors can look forward to illuminated woodland walks, colourful light displays and a magical evening experience. This page will be updated as soon as the organisers release further information for Illuminate 2027.

The Cerne Abbas Music Festival 2027 will take place in July in the beautiful village of Cerne Abbas. Enjoy three evenings of exceptional chamber music performed by internationally renowned musicians in the stunning surroundings of St Mary's Church. Featuring works by celebrated classical composers, this much-loved Dorset music festival offers an intimate concert experience and advance booking is recommended.

The Dorset Spring Show 2027 is expected to return to Puddletown near Dorchester in early May, celebrating the very best of Dorset's farming, food and countryside. While official dates and ticket details are yet to be announced, visitors can look forward to livestock displays, family entertainment, local food, rural demonstrations and much more. This page will be updated as soon as organisers release further information.

The B Sharp Busking Festival 2027 is expected to return to Lyme Regis in late June, bringing a day of free live music, street performances and family-friendly entertainment to Dorset's Jurassic Coast. While the 2027 date and programme are yet to be confirmed, visitors can look forward to talented young musicians, interactive workshops and a vibrant festival atmosphere. This page will be updated as soon as organisers release further details.

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 2026 takes place every Sunday from 3 May to 13 September, offering free outdoor yoga sessions in the beautiful surroundings of Poole Park. Open to all ages and abilities, the friendly one-hour classes are ideal for beginners and experienced participants alike. No booking is required, so simply bring a mat or towel, some water and enjoy a relaxed morning of movement, mindfulness and community wellbeing.

Poole Goes Vintage is set to return in 2027 after organisers confirmed a planned gap year for 2026. This popular free Dorset festival transforms Poole High Street, Old Town and Poole Quay into a celebration of the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s, featuring live music, vintage fashion, classic vehicles, dancing, family entertainment and independent traders. Full details for the 2027 event are still to be announced, and this page will be updated as soon as organisers release the official programme and timings.

Experience Proms in the Park 2026 at Meyrick Park, Bournemouth, on 7-8 August. Hosted by the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, this popular Dorset summer event features two spectacular evenings of live orchestral music, from timeless classical favourites and film scores to the biggest hits of the 1990s, all ending with a breathtaking fireworks display. Find event dates, ticket information and everything you need to plan your visit.

Experience Jurassic Fields Festival 2026 from 14–16 August at West Bay Fields near Bridport. One of Dorset's favourite family-friendly music festivals, Jurassic Fields features headline live music, DJs, tribute acts, camping, children's entertainment, street food and a fantastic atmosphere close to the Jurassic Coast. Find event dates, ticket information, camping options and everything you need to plan your visit.

Purbeck Film Festival: Cinema Under the Stars 2026 runs on selected evenings from 15 August to 5 September, 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.

Dorchester Cider Festival 2026 takes place on Saturday 15 August in Borough Gardens, bringing together award-winning cider producers, live music, delicious food and a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere. With free entry, opportunities to meet local cider makers and all profits supporting local good causes through Dorchester Round Table, it has become one of Dorset's most popular summer food and drink festivals.

Discover the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show 2026, taking place on 19–20 August at the Turnpike Showground near Shaftesbury. One of Dorset's biggest agricultural shows, the event features champion livestock, equestrian competitions, medieval jousting, countryside demonstrations, over 350 trade stands, local food and drink, family entertainment and hands-on farming activities. Find event dates, ticket information and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved Dorset rural event.

Discover Purbeck Valley Folk Festival 2026, taking place from 20–23 August at Purbeck Valley Farm near Corfe Castle. This award-winning Dorset festival brings together outstanding folk, roots and world music with family entertainment, creative workshops, camping and spectacular countryside views. Find event dates, ticket information, camping options and everything you need to plan your visit to one of Dorset's most welcoming summer festivals.

Experience We Out Here Festival 2026 from 20-23 August at the stunning St Giles House Estate near Wimborne St Giles. One of the UK's leading music festivals, We Out Here combines world-class jazz, soul, hip-hop, house and electronic music with arts, wellness, family activities and camping in the heart of the Dorset countryside. Find event dates, ticket information, camping options and everything you need to plan your visit.

Visit Melplash Show 2026 on Thursday 27 August at West Bay Showground near Bridport. One of Dorset's biggest agricultural events, the show features livestock and equestrian competitions, over 400 trade stands, local food and drink, countryside demonstrations, family activities and the popular Discover Farming marquee. Find event dates, ticket prices and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved West Dorset tradition.

Experience Dorset County Show 2026 on 5-6 September at Dorchester Showground. 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.

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.

Whether you're drawn by the promise of exceptional seafood, the lure of local music, or simply the prospect of a gorgeously relaxed time by the harbour, Poole's Seafood and Sounds Festival delivers in the most satisfying way possible. This free community event brings together Poole's heritage of seafood and music for an amazing weekend.

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.

Join the Dorset WALX Festival 2026 from 17-20 September 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.

Experience one of Dorset's biggest cultural weekends at the free Arts by the Sea Festival 2026 in Bournemouth. Taking place on 25-26 September, 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. With its 2026 ELEMENTAL theme celebrating creativity, sustainability and community, Arts by the Sea is one of the highlights of the Dorset events calendar.

Bournevaria Oktoberfest is the biggest Oktoberfest celebration on the South Coast. Located in the Windsor Hall at the Bournemouth International Centre in Bournemouth, the event is held every September. The event is a chance to enjoy German tradition and is set in the Bavarian-themed beer hall at the BIC. Book tickets to this event to enjoy several fun evenings of live entertainment, great food, and fantastic German beers.

Join the Romance Writing Festival 2026 in Bournemouth for a day of inspiring talks, writing workshops, expert masterclasses and networking with bestselling romance authors, literary agents and publishing professionals. Taking place at the Marsham Court Hotel on 3 October 2026, this unique Dorset literary event is ideal for aspiring and established romance writers looking to improve their craft, connect with the writing community and take the next step towards publication.

Take on one of Dorset's most popular running weekends at Run Bournemouth 2026. Held on 10 and 11 October, the festival features the Bournemouth Half Marathon, Supersonic 10K, Supernova 5K and junior races along Bournemouth's stunning coastline. With spectacular sea views, a lively event atmosphere and distances for all abilities, Run Bournemouth is a highlight of the Dorset sporting calendar and attracts thousands of runners and supporters each year.

Purbeck Film Festival 2026 takes place from 16 October to 1 November, bringing independent, international, classic and contemporary films to cinemas and unusual venues across Purbeck and wider Dorset. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the UK’s longest-running rural film festival is expected to feature special guests, filmmaker events, themed screenings and community cinema experiences. The complete programme and ticket prices will be announced nearer the festival.