Events and Festivals in Blandford

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

Great Dorset Steam Fair

This is a well-known fixture in the Blandford events calendar and takes place over the August bank holiday weekend each year.

The Fair has been running for over 50 years and regularly attracts more than 100,000 visitors over 5 days. As well as displays of all things steam powered, there is music, food and drink, heavy horses, vintage vehicles, a fun fair and more. 

Culture and the arts

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.

Blandford Georgian Fayre

You’ll find streetside stalls, music, dancing and traditional fairground entertainment against the backdrop of Blandford’s grand architecture.

The Fayre is held every May and attracts many visitors to this pretty market town. You can also enjoy visiting the quaint and interesting local shops, cafes and restaurants.

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 Literary Festival

First held in 2019, this festival is looking to grow year on year.

With both existing and new writers, the festival includes workshops, readings and competitions and will be a great addition to the Blandford events calendar.

Keyneston Mill

A few miles outside Blandford, Keyneston Mill hosts many events during the year including cinema and supper evenings, perfume making and crafting.

There are also botanical gardens and a riverside walk to explore plus a fabulous restaurant for enjoying lunch or dinner.

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.