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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

Intermediate Yoga on Swanage Pier Jun 15

Intermediate Yoga on Swanage Pier

Yoga on the Pier returns this summer for its eighth year. These sessions offer a joyful start to the day, a chance to connect with the Swanage community, and an opportunity to support the Swanage Pier...

Yoga on Swanage Pier Jun 15

Yoga on Swanage Pier

Yoga on the Pier returns this summer for its eighth year. These sessions offer a joyful start to the day, a chance to connect with the Swanage community, and an opportunity to support the Swanage Pier...

Cancer Research UK Big Hike Jurassic Coast Jun 20

Cancer Research UK Big Hike Jurassic Coast

This summer, escape to nature and take on a 10k, half marathon or full marathon along the Jurassic Coast on 20 June 2026.  Enjoy England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous...

Knights and Castles Jun 20

Knights and Castles

Experience the power, pageantry and everyday life of the Middle Ages at Corfe Castle during this action-packed Knights & Castles weekend. Meet Sir Stephen de Blenerhayset, a fearless knight always...

The Old Harry Swim Challenge Jun 20

The Old Harry Swim Challenge

Discover stunning vistas both above and below the water's surface, all while championing conservation in this iconic race. Enter the 5km for a swim out to Old Harry Rocks, before turning back to...

Wakey, Wakey, Paddle and Brekkie Jun 20

Wakey, Wakey, Paddle and Brekkie

Whether you're a beginner or an old hand, share a wonderful kayaking experience in this unique location. After you've built up your appetite, let us treat you to a traditional full English...

Roads to Rail Steam Rally Jun 26

Roads to Rail Steam Rally

We are proud to announce Year 6 ROADS TO RAIL STEAM RALLY will be taking place on 26 to 28 June 2026. Please book early to avoid disappointment. Roads to Rail - Nr Corfe Castle, Norden...

Roads to Rail Steam Rally Jun 26

Roads to Rail Steam Rally

The much-loved Roads to Rail Steam Rally returns from 26 to 28 June 2026, for the sixth year, bringing a spectacular celebration of steam engines, vintage vehicles, live music, and family...

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