What's on in Dorset

Looking to find out what's on in Dorset? You’ve come to the right place Dorset has got a fantastic year round events calendar for you to enjoy. Our vibrant county plays host to an amazing array of events from the mildly eccentric to the world famous .Dorset's country life is showcased at the many county shows and country fairs where prize animals parade, and the thrill of the fairground beckons. Dorset regattas also take place in our coastal towns, each bringing its own celebrations and a bucket-load of traditional seaside fun for the whole family to enjoy. There's plenty of Dorset events to choose from, check out our listings below!

Add to the mix fantastic beaches, beautiful countryside and great attractions, and you can see why there are always plenty of reasons to visit Dorset.

Amazing music and food festivals in Dorset!

If you are looking to see what's on in Dorset music and food wise, why not soak up the atmosphere and swing into action at one of Dorset’s many music festivals – choose from folk, jazz, classical or a well renowned festival, such as Camp Bestival, which attracts A-list entertainers to its centre stage.

There’s always a mouth watering abundance of local produce on offer at country fairs and food festivals across Dorset to tantalise your taste buds. Plus, you can pick up tips at demonstrations by celebrity and award winning chefs!

If you’re a seafood lover then make sure you don’t miss out on the award winning Dorset Seafood Festival, the UK’s largest seafood festival. Just picture yourself savouring a feast of seafood in the picturesque setting of Weymouth peninsula whilst enjoying the warm and welcoming atmosphere – sound good?

Outdoor events in Dorset!

Love the great outdoors? Why not embrace Dorset’s wonderful scenery at a walking festival or join a guided fossil walk and let your inner explorer loose!

The fun isn’t just on the ground! Let the pilots of the world famous Red Arrows and Black Cats wow you with incredible aerobatics and hair raising stunts or fly a kite to the highest height at a kite festival!

Or perhaps you want to experience something a little more unique? Why not have a go at a chilli eating competition?

Family events in Dorset

Looking for an event that the whole family will enjoy? There are so many family events taking place across Dorset that we don't know where to start! There's carnivals, country shows, festivals, tank displays, nature events....the list goes on! Check out our listings below to find your perfect Dorset family event!

Cracking comedy and Dorset's vibrant cultural scene

The arts are all around you in Dorset with musical performances, sparkling productions and arts and film festivals to inspire and surprise you.

Why not catch a top comedian in a cosy Dorset venue and be the first to see their set as they warm-up for a national tour?

This may be one of the most peaceful parts of the country but it buzzes with activity throughout the year!

Simply use the ‘What’s On’ search facility to search our list of events.

Why not stay in Dorset and book your accommodation today!

Make the most of Dorset’s fantastic events calendar and book a break to Dorset.

We have plenty of accommodation for you to choose from – chic hotels, homely B&Bs, cosy self catering cottages and pretty holiday parks.

Plan Your Visit

Dec 27

'Incredible Insects of Durlston' exhibition at Durlston Country Park

Durlston Country Park National Nature Reserve

A brand-new free exhibition arrives in Durlston Castle's Fine Foundation Gallery over this festive period. 'Incredible Insects of Durlston' will showcase the National Nature Reserve's...

Dec 27

A Christmas Carol – Sir Quentin Blake: Original Illustrations

The Sherborne

✨ Step into a candlelit Christmas story as The Sherborne presents Sir Quentin Blake's original illustrations for Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. This special exhibition holds deep...

Dec 27

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens Illuminate Winter Lights 2025

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

Illuminate presented by OT Event Technicians. An outdoor winter enchanted lights display within the Gardens. Colourful lights transform and illuminate our Subtropical 18th century gardens and create a...

Dec 27

Artist as Witness: The Impact of War | Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Russell-Cotes House, Gallery and Garden

This thought-provoking exhibition explores the importance of the artist as eyewitness, providing insights not only into warfare but also the impact of war on those involved and the communities...

Dec 27

Beauty and the Beast - Christmas Pantomime

Professional pantomime arrives at the Regent this Christmas as we welcome award-winning Polka Dot Pantomimes to present a tale as old as time - BEAUTY AND THE BEAST! Starring KEITH MYERS as Dolly...

Dec 27

Bournemouth Alpine Bar

Eat, drink and be merry in the tradtional festive Alpine Lodge Bar located in Bournemouth's Town Centre. Enjoy cosy indoor and outdoor seating whilst you soak up the Christmas...

Dec 27

Bournemouth Christmas Market

Head on down to Bournemouth Square and find the perfect present at the Christmas Alpine Market. Take your pick from a wide array of hand made and traditional Christmas gifts at the outlet market...

Dec 27

Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland

Spectacular Christmas tree trail, enchanting illuminations and seasonal family fun! Experience the magical spectacle of hundreds of glittering trees from around the world. See them shimmer against the...

Dec 27

Christmas and New Year in Bournemouth

Christmas and New Year in Bournemouth, 13 November 2025 to 4 January 2026 Bournemouth is the perfect destination to visit, stay and get into the festive spirit. With a Christmas market,...

Dec 27

Christmas and New Year in Poole

Make the most of Christmas and New Year in Poole with winter walks, magical meetings with Santa, cosy stays, festive parties and even bath tub races! Whether meeting family and friends for a special...

Dec 27

Christmas and New Year in Wareham

The build up to Christmas is a bustling time in the town of Wareham. The historic market town is decorated with Christmas lights and a wonderful Christmas tree which stands on the town crossroads....

Dec 27

Christmas and New Year in Wimborne Minster

Enjoy Christmas in Wimborne Minster - there's so much going on to get you into the Christmas spirit. From the switching on of Wimborne's Christmas lights there’s lots to...

Dec 27

Christmas Archery

Christmas Archery – Festive Fun at Laserguys in Dorset Celebrate the season with Christmas Archery at Laserguys this December half term. This festive archery session is one of the best Christmas...

Dec 27

Christmas at Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle

Take time to relax and enjoy a winter warmer in the seasonal setting of Corfe Castle. Gather around a fire pit to toast marshmallows whilst catching up with friends or family. Natural decorations will...

Dec 27

Christmas at Dorset Museum & Art Gallery

Dorset Museum & Art Gallery

The countdown to Christmas begins and we've got some cracking family activities to help you get in the festive spirit! The Great Christmas Pudding Hunt | 15 November - 31 December Wander through...

Dec 27

Christmas at Stourhead

Step into a winter wonderland like no other as Christmas at Stourhead returns for 2025! Firmly established as one of the best Christmas events in the South West, Christmas at Stourhead is back for...

Dec 27

Christmas at the Russell-Cotes | Bournemouth

Russell-Cotes House, Gallery and Garden

Step back in time and unwrap the magic of a Victorian Christmas at the Russell-Cotes. Whether you're starting a new tradition or returning for more yuletide joy, the Russell-Cotes offers festive...

Dec 27

Christmas Holiday

The Tank Museum

Festive fun for the whole family! This Christmas Holidays, enjoy free Christmas colouring, Frank on a Tank Elf Trail, Christmas in the Trenches and more! Venture around The Museum to see a...