What's on in Dorset in July

There’s plenty going on in Dorset throughout July to keep you entertained, whether you’re into sport, music, history or delicious Dorset food you’ll find an event that tickles your fancy!  We’ve given you just a small sample of Dorset’s July events so make sure you check out our What’s On list for a full list of everything you can see and do!

British Beach Polo Championships, Poole – 13-14 July

This fantastic event returns to Sandbanks in Poole and is a thrill to watch.

Played with an extra large orange ball the games are fast, furious and gladiatorial in nature. Matches are played over two days and each day wraps up with legendary parties with top DJs playing to the crowds.

Swanage Jazz Festival – 13-15 July

The much loved Swanage Jazz Festival returns again this July with a wide spectrum of jazz music from traditional to modern and contemporary to gypsy jazz.  With over 60 acts, some of which are the most popular acts on the national and international scene today, there really is something to suit everyone’s taste!

Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival – 14-15 July

This annual event takes place around Weymouth’s picturesque historic harbour and offers champagne, seafood and family entertainment.  With an emphasis on responsibly sourced seafood from the region, the festival aims to provide visitors with a better understanding of the superb seafood available off our wonderful shores.

Be entertained by national chefs as well as our much loved seafood heroes.  Wander around and taste fresh seafood dishes from nearly 100 stalls or simply sit back and relax with a bottle of Pommery Champagne.

Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival – 20-22 July

This weekend event commemorates the bravery of the martyrs’ struggle against poverty and authority and celebrates trade unionism.  The weekend is packed full with family entertainment, stalls, political debate, comedy, music and a grand procession through the village.

Leigh Food Fair & Classic Car Display – 21 July

Leigh’s annual food fair and classic car display returns for its 13^th year with a wonderful selection of stall holders selling a wide variety of delicious local produce.  Why not grab yourself a local beer or cider and take a wander around the classic and vintage vehicles and motorbikes on show.

Wimborne History Festival – 21-22 July

This festival really brings the area’s fascinating past vividly to life with exciting events, re-enactments and activities all based in historic settings in and around Wimborne Minster.

The 2018 festival will commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War and the centenary of the Suffragettes. Explore the military encampment, meet the Artillery, nurses and soldiers from across the world.  See that last airworthy Bristol Scout WW1 bi-plane and discover what life was like with a trench warfare exhibition, and on the home front with a series of displays.

Camp Bestival, Lulworth – 26-29 July

Set in the majestic grounds of Lulworth Castle, this multi-award winning family festival is jam-packed with family entertainment, amazing music performances, stunning slide shows and family fun by the bucket load!

Top acts this year include Simple Minds, clean Bandit, Rick Astley, Basement Jaxx, Sara Cox, Tokio Myers, Mr Tumble, Dick and Dom…and the list goes on!

Climb aboard the ship of fun as Camp Bestival sets sail!

Forde Abbey Summer Fair – 26 July

The stunning setting of Forde Abbey is the wonder backdrop for this fabulous summer fair.  There is so much to see from ferret racing, dog shows, falconry displays on horseback and much more besides.  Head to the lake for a spot of fly fishing tuition or take a stroll through the shopping village.  And of course no summer fair would be complete without some live music and delicious food!

Beach Volleyball Classic 2018 UK Pro Tour, Weymouth – 27-29 July

This event is part of the National Beach Volleyball Tour is Weymouth Beach Volleyball Club’s flagship event.

Described by British Bach legend, Denise Austin, as the ‘Wimbledon’ of British Beach Volleyball this exciting event offers 3 days of free to watch sporting action on the beautiful sands of Weymouth beach.

Great Dorset Chilli Festival, Wimborne St Giles – 28-29 July

A glorious weekend of “chilli fiesta” awaits with stalls selling all things chilli, cooking demonstrations, talks, music and spicy street food!  And not forgetting the infamous chilli eating competition….not for the fainthearted! This event is undoubtedly the hottest day out in Dorset!

Check out our what's on section for all the latest Dorset event information.