Christmas in Dorset

We can't wait to welcome everyone back to celebrate Christmas in Dorset this year - with brand new light festivals and pantomimes, we're sure you'll have a most wonderful time!

Just imagine spending your days wandering around Christmas markets with a tasty gingerbread latte or mulled wine. Then head off to Bournemouth's Christmas Tree Wonderland, a traditional pantomime or one of our fantastic winter illuminations.

Happy holidays everyone!

Find the perfect place to spend Christmas in Dorset

What could be more festive than spending Christmas at a country cottage? Opening presents around a cosy log-burner and enjoy a sumptuous Christmas feast together at the farmhouse table - there really is nothing like spending a Christmas break away in the countryside.

Or maybe you’d like to leave all the hard work to someone else and be wined, dined and truly treated at a hotel. Take a look at some of the fantastic packages that will make this Christmas one to remember for years to come!

Yuletide events to keep everyone entertained

One of the most exciting parts about Christmas is all the festive events we get to enjoy. There are wreath making workshops, Christmas light displays and not forgetting meeting Father Christmas!

Jump on a Swanage Railway train for their Steam and Light show through the Dorset countryside where along the way you'll see charming festive displays.

The National Trust's Kingston Lacy house and gardens have lots of festive events for all the family, including an after-dark illuminated trail that will showcase the garden and parkland in a magical and immersive way.

At Bournemouth's Christmas Tree Wonderland be amazed by over 100 illuminations - follow the trail throughout the town and gardens to see huge Christmas trees and festive characters.

Check out our full list of Christmas events to get you into the festive spirit.

Oh yes it is! It’s panto time!

Ridiculous, noisy, funny and most importantly this year, uplifting - we all love a Christmas Pantomime!

It’s an integral part of everyone’s Christmas celebrations and this year, Dorset is spoiling you with a range of traditional classics from Beauty and the Beast to Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and Aladdin, all showcasing a mix of your favourite panto celebrities and fabulous local talent.

Take the whole family along and enjoy a side-splitting, thigh-slapping time!

Christmas Events

Ice-skating, festive markets, pantomimes and not forgetting meeting Father Christmas.

Christmas Shopping

Take advantage of late-night shopping, free parking and Christmas markets.

Eating Out at Christmas

The Christmas party season is upon us. It's a time for crackers, party poppers and lots of fun.

We handrawn heart Pantomimes

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Pantomimes

Enjoy family favourites Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty.

What does your Christmas in Dorset look like? Meeting Santa in his grotto? Shopping at a Christmas Market? Or seeing all the magical Christmas Lights? Discover a sample of your festive #VisitDorset images below and share your love for Dorset using the hashtag on Instagram. 

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