What's On in Swanage

Looking for a place which offers a variety of music, sport, food and activity events throughout the year? Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck is the place to come to, with regular festivals and lots of family-friendly activities. Swanage alone has over 30 festivals each year, so there will always be an event to entertain.

Swanage Carnival is one of the highlights of the Swanage event calendar and the two mile carnival procession is enjoyed by thousands each summer, raising money for local charities. This week long event at the beginning of August includes three firework displays and over 100 events, including art competitions for children and adults, treasure hunts and a dog show. Why not join the fun?

The Swanage Fish Festival in June celebrates food, fun and all things fishy, with free children’s activities. You are sure to be able to try some of the freshest seafood around, while enjoying the seaside location.

Music festivals and events in Swanage

Want to holiday in a place buzzing with music events and festivals? Swanage has something to suit all tastes. From free concerts by Swanage Town Band playing at the bandstand to the Purbeck Valley Folk Festival, you can enjoy live music in a wide variety of venues.

In September, the Swanage Folk Festival combines folk music, Morris dancing and children’s activities. If you are more of a blues fan, the Swanage Blues Festival takes place in October with over 100 musicians at 60 events.

Running, hiking, swimming and rowing events

Swanage is a favourite location for kayak fishing competitions, Jurassic Coast hikes for charity and the annual sea rowing regatta.

In July, the Wild Swimming Festival champions sea swimming in and around Swanage Bay.

The Studland Stampede in October is a 12 km off road running event over heathland and sandy beaches.

Family friendly events in Swanage

Wanting to keep the children entertained during the school holidays? They will enjoy the activities and trails offered by Durlston Country Park which has a year round programme with activities for families. The National Trust at Corfe Castle and Studland Bay also offer an inspiring range of events.

Why not go back to the stream trains of the Railway Children? Events for all the family take place on Swanage Railway throughout the year, including steam and diesel galas.

Other family friendly events include the Fairy Festival, Pirate Festival and Swanage Lifeboat Week.

Nature and wildlife events

If you want to meet a moth, watch migrating birds, go on a wildlife photography walk or get the chance to spot a dolphin, Durlston Country Park is the place to go, with a full programme of activities throughout the seasons. They also host star-gazing events at their observatory along with the Wessex Astronomical Society.

Every summer the Durlston Country Park Rangers pair up with Coastal Cruises to offer guided bird watching boat trips to see the seabirds nesting on the nearby cliffs, including gannets, guillemots and a small number of puffins.

Cultural events, film and theatre

The Purbeck Art Weeks Festival takes place every May and artist studios and pop-up exhibitions will be opened for the festival. Purbeck Art Weeks includes live performances of classical music, poetry, dance and illustrated talks.

The Mowlem Cinema and Theatre offers you all year-round entertainment with live music and theatre performances and also a wide range of cinema for all tastes. The Mowlem is also a venue for the Purbeck Film Festival during the autumn.

Open air performances in Swanage

The Amphitheatre at Prince Albert Gardens overlooking Swanage Bay is the perfect location for open air theatre throughout the summer, look out for a variety of shows and musical events in this stunning location.

Book your stay in Swanage

Now you know what’s on, find somewhere to stay during your holiday in Swanage. We have plenty of B&B, self-catering and camping options for you, plus ideas of things to do, places to eat and interesting shops to discover.

Need extra advice? Contact our Information Centre for helpful visitor information.

Jun 23

A Visual History of Swanage Pier

Swanage Pier

Step onto the Lower Deck of Swanage Pier and explore its history through photographs. This exhibition shows Swanage Pier's journey from its Victorian beginnings to its role in maritime history....

Jun 23

Intermediate Yoga on Swanage Pier

Swanage Pier

The Thursday morning sessions are more dynamic in pace and will include the opportunity to explore some more challenging postures. We will explore breath awareness and movement practices, with...

Jun 23

Yoga on Swanage Pier

Swanage Pier

The Tuesday morning sessions will be a gentle guided flow class suitable for all levels of experience. They will include an introduction to simple breathing techniques, some standing and seated...

Jun 25

Visiting Artists at Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle

In collaboration with Purbeck Art Weeks Festival, each Wednesday between 11 June - 16 July two visiting artist will be working in the Outer Bailey of Corfe Castle. Come and see these talented artists...

Jun 27

Roads to Rail Steam Rally

Swanage Railway

We are proud to announce Year 5 ROADS TO RAIL STEAM RALLY will be taking place on 27 to 29 June 2025. Please book early to avoid disappointment. Roads to Rail - Nr Corfe Castle, Norden...

Jun 29

Swanage Triathlon Festival

Swanage Beach

A stunning Triathlon festival with a long swim option in the beautiful Swanage Bay. The open water swim is within Swanage Bay where if the water's are clear, you may be able to spot some great sea...

Jul 03

The Gesualdo Six in Concert

Vocal consort The Gesualdo Six join forces with trumpeter Matilda Lloyd to present a stunning programme that explores different shades of light through music. Works from the Golden Age of polyphony by...

Jul 05

Ancient Technology Centre Medieval Sword Weekend

Corfe Castle

Ever wondered how to make and use a medieval sword? Join the Ancient Technology Centre in the grounds of Corfe Castle and discover how swords are made, have a go at learning the art of swordsmanship...

Jul 05

Swanage Town Band Concert

We are delighted to be playing on Swanage Bandstand again this summer and are looking forward to our first concert there on Wednesday 21st May at 7pm. We look forward to seeing you there and hope you...

Jul 10

Blacksmithing Workshops - Medieval Key Making

Corfe Castle

Join Alistair Butcher from ABforgeworks, a blacksmith based in Corfe Castle village, forging historical and archaeological items based on the area's local history. Get hands on and learn how to...