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Events and Festivals in Bournemouth

Bournemouth boasts a year-round calendar of over 500 events, so whatever time of year you visit and whatever your interests, there’s always something for the whole family to enjoy.

Bournemouth International Centre is the largest concert venue in Dorset and hosts events throughout the year. From music and west-end productions to comedians, sports and food festivals, it all happens here. 

The Pavilion Theatre is located next to the beautiful lower gardens. Book tickets for dancing, music shows, tribute acts, comedy clubs and not forgetting the annual Christmas pantomime.

Bournemouth Festivals

The Shake and Stir Vintage Music Festival in June takes place in Southbourne. It has become renowned locally and across the south of England, for its incredible vintage-themed live entertainment and music along with local food & drink, trade stalls, vintage and classic cars, mods and rockers, and classic bikes.

The award winning Bournemouth Air Festival is the highlight of the August event calendar offering three days and nights of awesome entertainment and breath-taking air displays by the world’s greatest teams and pilots.

In October, time your visit to enjoy the Arts by the Sea Festival which is a rich mix of some of the best regional and national and international arts across dance, film, theatre, performance, visual arts, spoken word, literature and music.

Bournemouth's music concerts

Bournemouth has plenty for culture lovers with some of the best entertainment venues around – the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), the Pavilion Theatre and O2 Academy offer live entertainment all year round.

You’ll find everything from big named acts to tribute bands and up and coming stars. So whether you like rock, pop, indie or classical music, you won’t fail to be entertained in Bournemouth.

Theatres and shows in Bournemouth

If you’re a fan of musicals, plays, ballet and opera you will love visiting the Art Deco Pavilion Theatre in the centre of Bournemouth. They have a year round programme of shows for all the family to enjoy. Next door to the Pavilion Theatre is Pavilion Dance South West who host their own live and on-screen dance performances, outdoor events and also give the audience the chance to get involved and take part.

Look out for musical performances produced by Bournemouth University – you are sure to be amazed.

If you’re looking for a comedy show or open-mic night, you will lots of them all across Bournemouth and the surrounding towns. Plenty of side-splitting fun for everyone!

Looking to stay overnight in Bournemouth?

Bournemouth is well known for its huge variety of hotels, B&Bs and self catering options situated along the stunning coastline. So whatever you're choice of accommodation, you'll be assured of a great nights rest in Bournemouth.

Events coming soon

Head Space Apr 22

Head Space

An exhibition of new work by local professional artist Ben Winter. Growing up in Southbourne, Bournemouth, Dorset on the South Coast of the UK, Hengistbury Head has been a constant and integral part...

Bournemouth Writing Festival Apr 24

Bournemouth Writing Festival

A three-day extravaganza of talks, walks, seminars, panels, performances and workshops for writers wanting to write. We've curated a smorgasbord of professional writers and industry experts,...

Bournemouth Writing Festival Apr 24

Bournemouth Writing Festival

Free and ticketed writing events and activities to inspire you to write - whether you are a complete beginner or ready to publish. The Bournemouth Writing Festival returns for its fourth year from...

Adele Tribute by Jax Hall on Bournemouth Pier Apr 25

Adele Tribute by Jax Hall on Bournemouth Pier

After a sold-out show in 2023, Jax Hall is returning to Key West! Experience the magic as Jax performs all your favourite Adele hits from the timeless Skyfall and Hello to the unforgettable Someone...

MVT Fundraiser Bournemouth Apr 25

MVT Fundraiser Bournemouth

Hi, I'm Charlie Smith, an Alternative Acoustic artist from Hampshire, UK. In April, I will be embarking on my spring tour fundraising for the Music Venue Trust. This will include six different...

Paul Carrack Apr 25

Paul Carrack

Carrack's new album, recorded in Nashville, marks a deeply personal milestone, offering a heartfelt tribute to the music that shaped him. Titled The Country Side of Paul Carrack, the record...

University Music Choral & Orchestral Concert Apr 25

University Music Choral & Orchestral Concert

University Music Bournemouth Choir and Orchestra present 'Towards the Light' on Saturday 25th April, 7.30pm in Christchurch Priory. The Programme includes Ola Gjeilo's evocative...

Bournemouth Chamber Music Society Apr 26

Bournemouth Chamber Music Society

Violinist Sophie Rosa and pianist Ian Buckle will play Sonatas by Mendelssohn, Beethoven and Grieg and Three Romances by Clara Schuman. Sophie enjoys a varied career as a soloist, director and chamber...

Funny Girl Apr 30

Funny Girl

Milton Musical Society are thrilled to be returning to the Regent in Spring 2026 with the hit Broadway musical and original Barbra Streisand classic, Funny Girl! She's the greatest star! With...

From Bournemouth to Broadway May 02

From Bournemouth to Broadway

The bright stage lights are calling right here in Bournemouth. Join us for an evening of showstopping musical magic. Featuring singers from Bournemouth Musical Theatre Productions, bringing the stage...

Park Yoga May 07

Park Yoga

Free outdoor Park Yoga sessions every Sunday throughout the summer, 9.30-10.30am. Suitable for people of all ages and abilities, including children. Roll up your mat and join us for a weekly fix of...

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