What's On in Dorset in September

September is a beautiful month to visit Dorset, the sun is still shining and county is just waiting to be explored.  There are also plenty of events happening to keep you entertained.  We’ve picked out 10 to give you a flavour but check out our what’s on listing for a full list of events.

Bournemouth Air Festival, 30 August - 2 September

The internationally renowned Bournemouth Air Festival continues into September and is a fantastic opportunity to see some of the world’s most powerful and agile aircraft.  There’s plenty to keep you entertained in the air and on the ground during the day and into the evening.  A festival to be enjoyed by all ages!

Lyme Regis Folk Festival, 31 August – 2 September

This summer will see the sixth edition of Lyme Folk Weekend.  There’s so much to see and do all weekend that it’s no wonder that this festival has grown into one of the South West’s folk scene’s most popular events.

They’ll be plenty of live music, Morris dancing, workshops and much more.

Bridport Hat Festival – 1 & 2 September

This is one of the more eccentric events in Dorset’s calendar but one that we all love!  The giant summer-ending party for the town and its visitors is a fundraiser for head-related charities. 

The most creative, quirky, stylish and inventive headwear combines with live music, competitions, demonstrations, shows, a hat auction, games, hatted dogs (we did warn you that it was quirky!) and much more and it’s all topped off with a huge mass hat wearing photoshoot.  Just don’t forget your hat!

Dorset County Show, 1 & 2 September

Dorset County Show offers a fun-filled, action-packed weekend for all ages.  The weekend showcases rural skills, local food and drink producers, main ring entertainment (including camel racing!) and a wide variety of trade stands.

Swanage Folk Festival, 7-9 September

During this weekend the beautiful seaside town of Swanage will resonate to the sound of bells jingling, sticks thwacking and excellent music.

As well as workshops and music sessions, displays will take place all over the town and a spectacular dance parade takes place on Saturday afternoon.

b-side Festival, 8 – 16 September

b-side’s biannual festival is returning to Portland for 9 days of an eclectic mix of visual art, text, sound and installation all in unusual places and spaces over the Isle of Portland.

Food Rocks Festival, Lyme Regis, 8 & 9 September

Food Rocks was founded by Mark Hix in 2012 to celebrate the fantastic produce that the South West has to offer. 

The two-day food extravaganza is jam-packed full of chef demonstrations, supper clubs, walks and tastings.

Inside Out Festival, 14 – 22 September

Taking place at various locations across Dorset this is spectacular, mainly free open air entertainment for all the family. 

Experience a world class aerial circus and unique performances.  Inside Out Dorset provides extraordinary events in extraordinary locations.

Isle of Purbeck Walking Festival, 16 – 16 September

The beautiful Isle of Purbeck is a walker’s paradise with a mix of coast and countryside.  This year’s festival offers a varied programme of great walks led by local experts ensuring that you see as much of this beautiful area as possible.

Fish, Forage & Feast – 29 September

Fancy something a bit different?  The why not give this a go!  This is a great experience where you can get outside and go on your own special treasure hunt for the tummy.  From their perfect spot on the beach, Fore Adventure will get you out investigating the surrounding and teach you skills to identify and prepare what you find.

You’ll begin on the seashore with friendly fishermen teaching you how to set your own rigs and cast off shore, then you’ll forage along the beach before heading to a secret location to enjoy a handcrafted feast.  Yum!