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.

May 18

Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge

Corfe Castle

Experience the stunning beauty of England's Jurassic Coast on this iconic Ultra Challenge! Starting at Corfe Castle, you'll traverse the breathtaking coastline through landmarks like Lulworth...

May 21

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...

May 22

Guided Walk - The Purbeck Ridgeway and East Corfe Common

Corfe Castle

Climb up to the ridge of the Purbeck Hills east of Corfe Castle with our friendly guide and enjoy outstanding views of the castle and the Isle of Purbeck. Explore and learn about the cultural history...

May 24

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....

May 24

Corporal of the Castle - Storytelling Tours

Corfe Castle

Step back in time and experience Corfe Castle like never before! Sign up to serve your country as our storyteller takes you on a light hearted, World War II themed tour. Not only will you discover how...

May 24

Lego Drag Car Racing on Swanage Pier

Swanage Pier

Come and burn some rubber!! This fast-paced and fun event on Swanage Pier will involve racing Lego pull-back cars on the Pier. Come and choose your car (all cars provided) and race to the finish. The...

May 24

Purbeck Art Weeks Festival - In the Spirit of PAW art exhibition

In collaboration with Purbeck Art Weeks Festival Castle View Welcome Centre will play host to an exhibition of work from local emerging artists alongside some more established ones too. You will find...

May 24

Sons of Town Hall

Whilst crossing the Atlantic on a raft of their own making, Sons of Town Hall crafted songs of wonder and woe, heartbreak and hope. Jump aboard and join these theatrical-folk sensations for an...

May 24

Swanage Pirate Festival

A free festival for pirates, mermaids and anyone else who wants to join in! Saturday 24 and Sunday 24 May 2025. Stalls, living history, re-enactments, pirate parade, pub crawl and a...

May 25

Fish and Chip Cruise to Poole from Swanage Pier

Swanage Pier

Set sail on an early evening circular cruise to Poole Harbour with Coastal Cruises, departing from Swanage Pier. The cruise offers vast panoramas of sky, sea and sand as you pass Old Harry Rocks,...