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Events and Festivals in Purbeck

 

On the Isle of Purbeck, there is a year-round calendar of events to keep you entertained at all times and in all weathers. So whether you are wanting to take an art class, watch open-air theatre or eat all you can at a foodie festival, there is plenty on offer.

Toe tapping fun

If you’re a music lover, then we’ve got just about everything you could want, from headlining acts at Camp Bestival to up and coming local bands performing in pubs.

Blues, Roots and Folk are big on the list of music festivals which take place every year and have a huge following – so book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment.

Challenge yourself

Are you the fitness fanatic in your family whose idea of a relaxing holiday is to go for a 5 mile run every morning? Then you might like to take part in or watch one of our many sporting events – marathons, rowing regattas, walking challenges and triathlons are just a few. Or why not make up your own running, cycling or walking route – there are plenty of hill climbs to get the heart racing!

Family friendly

The events calendar is bursting with things to keep the kiddies amused or to entertain the whole family during your visit.

The Tank Museum’s TankFest is a highlight of the year – the world's biggest and best live display of historic armour, living history, and much more at the Home of the Tank. And then when summer arrives it’s all about carnival week with fun and games, competitions, fancy dress and parades.

If art is more your scene, you won’t want to miss Purbeck Art Weeks where there are open studios to watch the artists at work, exhibitions and musical performances.

And if you are visiting during the school holidays, our local attractions always have extra special events to let the children burn off some energy and the adults put their feet up for five minutes!

Something for all seasons

It’s not just the summer which is packed with events. If you are visiting at Easter, you’ll find chocolate egg hunts and treasure trails for all ages – who doesn’t love chocolate!

Autumn brings Halloween fancy dress parties, pumpkin festivals and amazing firework displays and bonfires on Guy Fawkes Night. And then to close the year, you can celebrate the Winter Solstice, witness the lighting up of our towns and villages with Christmas lights, join in with some carol singing, and then ring in the New Year with a glass of bubbly or two.

Book your stay on the Isle of Purbeck

So you've planned what you are going to do while on holiday, now find somewhere to stay. You'll find lots of choices from homely guest houses to 5 star campsites. For extra advice, contact one of team at Swanage Information Centre.

Events coming soon

Creative Relationships May 26

Creative Relationships

Curator and art historian Gill Clarke will talk about leading artists who were resident or visiting Purbeck between 1900-1950, giving us a fascinating insight into the area's rich artistic...

Poo-tastic activity trail May 26

Poo-tastic activity trail

Discover a wonderfully quirky trail that celebrates an often overlooked part of the natural world. Along the way, enjoy fun activities and uncover some fascinating and surprising facts about animal...

Purbeck Art Weeks May 26

Purbeck Art Weeks

Purbeck Art Weeks 2026 promises two inspiring weeks of creativity, performance and discovery across one of the most beautiful corners of the UK. Here's a taste of what's in store: A...

Take Action for Wildlife: Make a bee home May 26

Take Action for Wildlife: Make a bee home

Come along to the Wild Seas Centre to find out what you can do to help pollinators and have a go at making a bee home for your garden. A fun family activity to help you take action for wildlife. This...

Opening Skate Jam May 30

Opening Skate Jam

Join us Sat 30th May to celebrate completion of the Phase 1 skatepark build! Schedule 12.00 - 13.00 - Beginner skateboard workshops (All equipment provided) 13.00 - 13.20 - Professional skateboard and...

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