Events and Festivals in Blandford

Blandford Forum is a town of history, arts and fantastic local food and drink. The events and festivals which take place here during the year are fun for all ages, whatever your interest and budget.

Choose from music festivals, cultural events, walking tours, theatre shows, the Blandford Literary Festival and lots more. Not forgetting the annual Yuletide Festival which includes switching on the town's sparkling Christmas lights.

Culture and the arts in Blandford

Performing arts comes to the small stage in Dorset’s countryside. Usually set within local village halls, all ages can watch fantastic live performances at affordable ticket prices.

The ArtsReach charity not only supports local venues but also local performers too, and brings music, theatre and dance to rural Dorset.

Teddy Rocks Festival

Created in 2010 to raise money for children's cancer charities, the annual Teddy Rocks Festival is now firmly on the Blandford Forum events calendar. 

Taking place each year over the early May bank holiday weekend, there's always a great line-up of acts including tribute bands as well as local talent. Day tickets, weekend tickets and camping can all be booked online.

Brewery tours

The Hall and Woodhouse Brewery has been brewing real ales since 1777 and include the interestingly named Fursty Ferret, Hopping Hare and Cranborne Poacher – all part of the Badger Beer brand.

As well as taking a brewery tour and sampling some of the creations, there are also many Hall and Woodhouse pubs all over Dorset where you can enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner and stay overnight.

Blandford's music festivals

We Out Here Festival returns for another year in August, just a 15 minute drive out of town. Across four days, enjoy the biggest names in Jazz, Soul, Hip Hop, Brazilian and sounds from across the globe, and at night, dance to some of the scene's most exciting DJs. Alongside the music, there'll be a wellness programme (yoga, breathwork, massage, dance and more), a Talks Tent, Roller disco, and independent Record Fair.

In June, the two day family friendly DorsetFest is set in the heart of the Dorset National Landscape. Enjoy a fantastic range of music, entertainment and food stalls. There's even the option the camp to make the most of the weekend.

Christmas in Blandford

The annual Yuletide Festival is a sight to behold. On one evening in December, Blandford is alive with carol singers, a lantern parade, street theatre, music and dancing. Father Christmas also pays a visit, and the shops and streetside stalls are open late for those looking for unique and unusual Christmas presents.

During December, shops windows are decorated with Christmas scenes, Market Place is home to a huge Christmas trees and carol services take place at the parish church.