Events and what's on in Dorset
There's never a dull moment here! With a huge choice of events in Dorset taking place throughout the year, you'll be entertained no matter when you visit.
You'll find tasty food festivals like the award-winning Nyetimber Dorset Seafood Festival, red arrows and other spectacular flying displays at the Bournemouth Air Festival, fireworks aplenty, the world-famous Great Dorset Steam Fair, music festivals such as the Wessex Folk Festival, some fantastic theatre productions, comedy shows and of course some slightly quirkier events to enjoy (Bridport Hat Festival we're looking at you!)
Dorset County Show and Melplash Show are just two of many events giving you the chance to discover rural life in Dorset, and don't miss Dorset Moon - a programme of lunar-inspired events which take place in Bournemouth, Sherborne and Weymouth in 2019.
Whatever your interests, you'll find details of what's on in Dorset on this page. Use the tabs to browse events today, this weekend, this week or next week - or just use the calendar to find out what's on when you're visiting.
Have an eventful visit!
View Dorset Events by Date:
The next 60 events in Dorset appear below.
17 December 2019
Christmas with La Nova Singers
Christchurch, Dorset
Classical choir La Nova Singers are bringing their sparkle to Highcliffe Castle – in a glorious celebration of everything Christmas!
Expect soaring voices, lush harmonies and heart-warming festive classics, with a few surprises along the way. The classically-trained singers have been bringing spectacular concerts to Highcliffe since 2006 and have also been heard on BBC Radio 3. Book early to secure your seat, as this event always sells out!
16 Dec 2019 to 17 Dec 2019
High School Musical
Bridport, Dorset
Bridport Young Performers’ brand new show 2019.
Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical comes to life on your stage!
Troy, Gabriella, and the students of East High must deal with issues of first love, friends, and family while balancing their classes and extracurricular activities.
It’s the first day after winter break at East High. The Jocks, Brainiacs, Thespians and Skater Dudes find their cliques, recount their vacations, and look forward to the new year.
Basketball team ...
18 December 2019
A Christmas Carol: In Concert
Dorchester, Dorset
A heart-warming retelling of Dickens’ classic tale uses an array of traditional and modern instruments and authentic musical arrangements. It brims with warmth, wit and wonder.
Modern-day balladeers GreenMatthews take the well-loved festive adventure back to its Victorian fireside roots, painting a vivid and evocative picture of Dickens’ world.
Chris Green (voice, guitar, mandocello, piano), Sophie Matthews (voice, flute, English border bagpipes) and special guest Jude Rees (voice, ...
18 December 2019
Carols at Hardy's Cottage
Dorchester, Dorset
Visit nineteenth-century Dorset with traditional West Gallery Christmas carols in Hardy's Cottage. Members of the Ridgeway Singers will be returning to Hardy's Cottage to revive the old carols sung in Hardy's childhood, as immortalized in 'Under the Greenwood Tree'.
Time: 1pm to 4pm.
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
19 December 2019
Musical Comedy: Christmas. Time.
Dorchester, Dorset
A musical comedy for all the family! Charlie and Toby are feeling low, and why wouldn’t they? It’s Christmas Day and they’re serving time at Her Majesty’s pleasure. But why shouldn’t they be having a Merry Christmas in spite of their incarceration? What’s stopping them from creating Christmas around them? Absolutely nothing! And so they set off on their festival of carols, Claus, Christ and custody…
Join them on a fantastical adventure through Dickens, pantomime, musical, Christmas dinner ...
18 Dec 2019 to 19 Dec 2019
Musical Theatre and Christmas Songs
Highcliffe Castle,
Christchurch, Dorset
A sensational selection of Musical Theatre and Christmas Songs performed by Bournemouth Musical Theatre over 2 nights.
Join us at Highcliffe Castle for a sensational selection of Musical Theatre and Christmas Songs. Amazing Harmony singing, with unique and wonderful arrangements, with true Christmas spirit!
Tickets £13.50 or £12.50 for season ticket holders.
20 December 2019
Hansel & Gretel
Bridport, Dorset
Deep in an enchanted forest, everybody’s looking for something to eat. A tasty treat, a sticky sweet – some children’s feet?
Hansel and Gretel are lost, searching for a way home, only to find themselves on the menu of a sweet-toothed witch.
Goody and Storey and Norwich Puppet Theatre present a colourful retelling of the classic Grimms’ fairy tale, serving up a feast of delicious music, dynamic scenery and knock-your-socks-off puppetry.
A show to tickle your eyes, your ears, and your ...
21 December 2019
Medieval Christmas Banquet
Beaulieu,
New Forest, Dorset
Go back in time with our medieval Christmas banquet at the historic Beaulieu Abbey Domus!
Are you looking for a fun, alternative and unique way to get into the Christmas spirit?
Why not join us on the 21st of December to discover what it's like to enjoy a medieval banquet?
The 13th Century Domus at Beaulieu, provides the perfect setting to take you back to medieval times to experience a three course royal feast fit for a king.
You'll be greeted with a traditional mead on arrival, ...
21 December 2019
Show Of Hands: Christmas Special
Bridport, Dorset
Show of Hands fans rejoice as Steve Knightley and Phil Beer, two undisputed kings of the folk, roots and acoustic scene reunite with long-term collaborator Miranda Sykes for a brand-new album and tour.
And there’s more, because the trio is expanding to include master percussionist Cormac Byrne who returns with his infectious rhythms by popular demand.
With new songs, new sounds, heartbeats and harmonies, the quartet’s first secret gig last year at The Electric Palace sold out ...
21 December 2019
Winter Solstice
Corfe Castle, Dorset
Experience the peace and tranquillity of watching the sun rise on the shortest day of the year from the castle ruins.
The castle gates will open at 7:15 in time for you to walk up and find the perfect spot to watch the sunrise.
Tickets £12.50, including a hot fruit punch to collect at the castle entrance on your way up and a breakfast bap (vegetarian sausage, sausage or gluten free) served on your way down in the tea-room. Bring a camping chair for added comfort.
Booking in advance ...
20 Dec 2019 to 22 Dec 2019
Artisans on the Beach
Swanage, Dorset
Set on Swanage seafront over the Christmas season, the beach-huts are taken over by local crafters and tradespeople all looking to sell the ideal creative gifts for you and your loved ones.
From collages, photography and paintings, to vintage and retro cushions, coasters and felt goods, there's no shortage of items on offer. So come on down and see what you can find, located within the beach-huts on Swanage Shore Road beside the Tourist Information Centre right up to the clock ...
22 December 2019
Blandford Family Christmas Show
Blandford, Dorset
Join us in the Corn Exchange for two hours of family fun from 4pm, on the 22nd December, with four acts from the Bournemouth Entertainment Network – Mr Merlin & Okey Dokey the Dragon, Jamie Jigsaw, Krazy Kev and DJ Phil from Get up and Groove!
Tickets are £5 each and are available to purchase on line www.ticketsource.co.uk or from the Town Clerk’s Office, Church Lane, Blandford (open Monday to Friday 9.30am to 12.30pm).
30 Nov 2019 to 22 Dec 2019
Magical Fun with ‘Farmer Christmas’
Wareham, Dorset
Visit 'Farmer Christmas' in his traditional, Winter cabin in the Little Farmer's Fun Barn. Our clever Elves use a time-slot system so no long queues for you! Yay! We don't charge you for taking photos either; you're welcome to take lots of your own photos and there's sure to be lots of giggles too! The Farm Park gets a full festive makeover and there'll be a cracking Christmas atmosphere all around!
*Simply purchase your Visit Santa tickets on the day of your visit from our reception ...
22 December 2019
Producers' Market
Brewery Square,
Dorchester, Dorset
A NEW outdoor Producers Market, with the chance to taste and buy a variety of local food and drink. Held in the heart of Brewery Square, the buzzing atmosphere will be the perfect setting to discover what Dorset has to offer just in time for Christmas!
23 December 2019
BSO: Celebration Of Christmas Carols 2019
Poole, Dorset
Join the BSO in our traditional sing-a-long, featuring all your favourites alongside the Bournemouth Symphony Chorus.
Gavin Carr
CONDUCTOR
Bournemouth Symphony Chorus
TRAD
God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen
TRAD
Good King Wenceslas
TRAD
O Come All ye Faithful
MENDELSSOHN
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Venue: Lighthouse Concert Hall
18 Dec 2019 to 23 Dec 2019
Illuminated Garden at Kingston Lacy
Wimborne, Dorset
Enjoy the chance to experience Kingston Lacy after dark during late night openings Wednesdays - Sundays, with a new illuminated experience transforming the Formal Garden as darkness falls.
From 4pm onwards, wander the illuminated trail around the Formal Garden and see the house and garden transformed with lights.
Normal property admission applies, members receive free entry. Last admission time 6.30pm.
Illuminated trail approximately 30 minute walk (1.5 miles). No dogs are allowed ...
20 Dec 2019 to 23 Dec 2019
Winter Lights at Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle,
Corfe Castle, Dorset
See the past in a magical light this Christmas at Corfe Castle.
Share your special Christmas wish at the wishing bridge or snuggle up by a log fire with a warming festive treat. Take in the atmosphere with our braziers, beacons and contemporary lighting as you explore the castle grounds.
Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Dogs on leads are welcome.
Although pathways will be lit, please bring a torch for the walk from the car park and for your walk around the ...
14 Dec 2019 to 24 Dec 2019
Best Ever Christmas Show
Wimborne, Dorset
Due to amazing reviews last Christmas, the ‘Best Ever Christmas Show’ is back, filled with sing-a-long songs, hilarious sketches and funny characters the children will love.
Will the Silly Elf find Santa’s Ho Ho Ho??? Has it been stolen by the mischievous Jack Frost? Plus we have the return of the much loved and popular Nicky Stevens from Brotherhood of Man, playing the Witch.
Christmas is just around the corner, so book your seats now - including a free ice cream for every ...
10 Dec 2019 to 24 Dec 2019
Can't Wait For Christmas
Poole, Dorset
Festive fun for everyone ages 3–10 and their families
Jessie’s dad has got her a lovely little present. It’s all wrapped up, and tied with a beautiful bow. She can’t wait to open it, but she isn’t allowed to until Christmas day.
Jessie shakes it and sniffs it and tries to sneak a peek, but Dad puts it just out of her reach and keeps a close eye on it. To keep her amused, he has laid a secret advent trail for her to follow. Jessie discovers a fun-filled journey filled with magical ...
18 Dec 2019 to 24 Dec 2019
Christmas Spectacular
Christchurch, Dorset
Returning for its eighth fabulous year of family entertainment, The Glad Rag Production Company is delighted to bring a brand new Christmas Spectacular to the Regent Centre stage. Bursting with festive delights, this highly acclaimed company will create a magical Christmas treat for the whole family to enjoy.
Once again, audiences will be treated to dazzling costumes from West End costumier Sue Simmerling and sparkling production numbers brought together by a heart-warming festive story, ...
13 Dec 2019 to 24 Dec 2019
Meet Father Christmas at Sea Life
Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park,
Weymouth, Dorset
Experience the magic of Christmas at Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park this December.
Be guided through the festive forest by a jolly Elf to meet Father Christmas in his enchanting Christmas Cabin.
Meet Father Christmas from 13th to 24th December, before he heads off on his long journey around the world delivering Christmas gifts and joy with his team of reindeer! Every child meeting Father Christmas will receive a special SEA LIFE gift.
Our Christmas Craft Zone will have lots to ...
20 Dec 2019 to 24 Dec 2019
Santa Express
Swanage Railway,
Swanage, Dorset
Meet Santa on his special Swanage Railway train.
During your one-hour return journey each child will receive a wrapped present from Santa, complimentary soft drink and biscuit. Mince Pie and seasonal drink for adults.
There will be balloon modelling during your visit.
Santa Express trains start and finish in Swanage. You cannot board or alight at any other station.
20 Dec 2019 to 24 Dec 2019
Santa's Woodland Grotto
Poole, Dorset
Santa is returning to Upton House in December with some new friends and things to see and tickets are available now so you have plenty of time to plan your visit.
This year Santa is joined in his Woodland Grotto by some friendly new elves, owls and donkeys (his reindeer are staying at home). Also new this year is a covered Light Tunnel to enjoy!
Pre-booking is highly recommended. Same-day walk-in tickets can be purchased at our ticket booth, but there are likely to be queues especially ...
26 December 2019
West Bay Wallow
West Bay, Dorset
Join in the fun with this Fancy Dress wallow. Watched from the relative warmth of the harbourside by a crowd estimated to be over 3000
strong, this winter event is quite a spectacle and raises a good amount of money for numerous good causes.
Entrants (usually over 100 people) are invited to raise monies for whomever they wish, by embracing the refreshing waters of West Bay! There are PRIZES for best Fancy Dress.
Entrants sign in from 10.30 am / Start 12 noon SHARP!
28 December 2019
Winter Warm Up
Swanage, Dorset
Enjoy a day of steam and diesel locomotives in action as our home fleet work an intensive timetable of passenger trains.
The Swanage Birds Nest Buffet and Norden Kiosk will be serving hot and cold drinks, home-made cakes, confectionery and snacks.
The souvenir shop at Swanage will be open.
The Swanage Railway Musuem at Corfe Castle Station and Exhibition Coach will also be open.
27 Dec 2019 to 29 Dec 2019
Artisans on the Beach
Swanage, Dorset
Set on Swanage seafront over the Christmas season, the beach-huts are taken over by local crafters and tradespeople all looking to sell the ideal creative gifts for you and your loved ones.
From collages, photography and paintings, to vintage and retro cushions, coasters and felt goods, there's no shortage of items on offer. So come on down and see what you can find, located within the beach-huts on Swanage Shore Road beside the Tourist Information Centre right up to the clock ...
26 Dec 2019 to 29 Dec 2019
Illuminated Garden at Kingston Lacy
Wimborne, Dorset
Enjoy the chance to experience Kingston Lacy after dark during late night openings, with a new illuminated experience transforming the Formal Garden as darkness falls.
From 4pm onwards, wander the illuminated trail around the Formal Garden and see the house and garden transformed with lights.
Normal property admission applies, members receive free entry. Last admission time 6.30pm.
Illuminated trail approximately 30 minute walk (1.5 miles). No dogs are allowed on the illuminated ...
27 Dec 2019 to 29 Dec 2019
Winter Lights at Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle,
Corfe Castle, Dorset
See the past in a magical light this Christmas at Corfe Castle.
Share your special Christmas wish at the wishing bridge or snuggle up by a log fire with a warming festive treat. Take in the atmosphere with our braziers, beacons and contemporary lighting as you explore the castle grounds.
Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Dogs on leads are welcome.
Although pathways will be lit, please bring a torch for the walk from the car park and for your walk around the ...
30 December 2019
New Year's Eve (eve) Phaser Night
Lemur Landings,
Poole, Dorset
Radio Alert... It's another Lunar Landings meteoric event... The Asteriod Trunkesar will pass closer to the earth than any of our satellites... We believe this is a desperate plan to mask an alien invasion... can you help Captain Lewey Hoops stop them?
Join the crew aboard SS Clash Landings for an exciting evening of phaser tag! Whether you come alone or bring your friends it's sure to leave you feeling like a lunar lemur!
The battle will commence once the teams have been formed, the ...
31 December 2019
Brew Year's Eve - Dorchester
Dorchester, Dorset
The best New Year's Eve party is happening here at the Brewhouse & Kitchen! With Live music playing acoustic, canapés, bubbles and beer it's got the makings of a great party - all it needs now is you and a group of your friends to make it a night to remember!
Get your tickets early as spaces are limited (Ticket price includes: Entry, canapés, a glass of bubbles or a pint of B&K beer)
Limited tickets will be available on the door on the night itself for £10 (if not fully booked).
We ...
31 December 2019
Brew Year's Eve - Poole
Poole, Dorset
The best New Year's Eve party is happening here at the Brewhouse & Kitchen! With Live music playing a range of hits and party tunes, canapés, bubbles and beer it's got the makings of a great party - all it needs now is you and a group of your friends to make it a night to remember!
Get your tickets early as spaces are limited (Ticket price includes: Entry, canapés, a glass of bubbles or a pint of B&K beer)
Limited tickets will be available on the door on the night itself for £10 (if ...
14 Dec 2019 to 31 Dec 2019
Christmas adventure with the Lord of Misrule
Corfe Castle, Dorset
Dating back to medieval England, the Lord of Misrule tradition continues at Corfe Castle this Christmas. Join our very own mischief-maker as you journey through the castle ruins, learn about medieval traditions and join in with games, dances and entertainment to brighten the long cold winter.
PLEASE NOTE: Selected dates only from 14th to 31st December.
01 Dec 2019 to 31 Dec 2019
Ice Skating at the Minster Green
Wimborne Minster,
Wimborne, Dorset
Skate 'till your heart's content at Wimborne Minster Green with the beautiful Minster in the background!
31 December 2019
New Year Fancy Dress Party
Weymouth, Dorset
New Year’s Eve in Weymouth is renowned as one of the places to come and celebrate the end of one year and welcome in the next. The whole town comes out in fancy dress and there is live music inside the pubs and clubs. Also, outside there are bands playing into the night.
Sing Auld Lang Syne around the Town Clock and party the night away! The Jubilee Clock is one of Weymouth’s best-loved landmarks and has been a meeting place for generations of both locals and visitors. Since it was first ...
31 December 2019
New Year House Party
Sherborne, Dorset
The party starts with a Champagne reception, followed by a sumptuous 7-course tasting menu feast created by Matthew Street, our executive chef and his talented team.
With music and dancing, followed by a spectacular firework display you are sure to start the New Year with a real bang.
Just a few short steps from the lively, historic Abbey town of Sherborne, The Eastbury Hotel is a charming boutique Georgian period listed townhouse (Dated 1740) hotel set within a spectacular walled ...
31 December 2019
New Year’s Eve 2019: Bohemian Rhapsody Sing-Along
Christchurch, Dorset
We are calling all champions of the world to join us for our NYE sing-along screening of Bohemian Rhapsody!
Experience this outstanding film featuring Rami Malek’s amazing Golden Globe-winning performance as Freddie mercury. Sing-along with lyrics on the screen to all your favourite smash hits including 'We Will Rock You', 'Another One Bites The Dust' and 'We Are The Champions'. So get up, dance, sing loud and break free!
At the end of the film, get in the drinks for Big Ben which ...
31 December 2019
New Year's Eve at Flirt
Bournemouth, Dorset
This New Year's Eve let Mr Kyps and Flirt Cafe Bar take care of you, with our 4 show extravaganza. With music from 20.00 until 01.00 you can enjoy a full night of entertainment, featuring live music from The Blues Brothers Show, The Soul Sisters (singing sweet soul Motown), Bonney Tyler a Tribute and Terry Nash as Meat Loaf.
Tickets for this event will sell fast due to limited capacity at the Flirt venue.
31 December 2019
New Year's Eve at the Pavilion Ballroom
Bournemouth, Dorset
Dress to impress for one of the biggest nights of the year and celebrate in style in the grand setting of Bournemouth Pavilion ballroom.
Ring 2020 in on a high-note by joining us at for a night of unforgettable food and entertainment;
Celebrations start at 7:30pm with a drinks reception followed by a lavish four-course gala dinner and coffee with entertainment from The Chris Manning Show Band. They will be playing the best of soul, pop favourites and sing-a-long classics sure to keep ...
31 December 2019
New Year's Eve Casino Royale Party
Bournemouth, Dorset
Come and celebrate the end of 2019 and bring in the New Year in style at Bournemouth’s most unique venue!
Dance your way in to the New Year at the Casino Royale Party at Key West on the iconic Bournemouth Pier!
Key West will be transformed and you will be fully immersed in a Black & Red Casino Royale experience with full room décor, live music and a DJ and dancing until late. We promise you a full evening of fun to end 2019 and begin 2020!
To get the party started, a sparkling ...
31 December 2019
New Year's Eve Dinner & Party
Beaminster, Dorset
Following a wonderful first New Year’s Eve party last year, we’re raising the roof with another great way to herald in a new year, and celebrate the end of 2019.
We get the evening started for you with a celebratory cocktail upon arrival.
A 5-course, specially-prepared meal by Chris and the team will transport you to exquisite places and tastes, after which we’ll kick off our New Year’s Eve party, complete with live music which will see you into 2020, coupled with a glass of Champagne ...
31 December 2019
New Year's Eve With Mistajam
Bournemouth, Dorset
The biggest New Year's Eve celebration on the South Coast - across 5 rooms each uniquely themed for the biggest event of the year, New Years Eve 2019!
This year we are going out with a bang with BBC Radio One’s legendary MistaJam counting down the New Year on our main stage!
In Myu Bar we have a Peaky Blinders dress theme and in Vinyl we have a live ABBA tribute! The incredible 1Xtra DJ J Fresh hosts the Basement to welcome you to 2020!
Cameo: Deep House, Dance and EDM with Dave ...
28 Dec 2019 to 31 Dec 2019
Puppet Panto
Bridport, Dorset
Especially for families at Christmas, Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company presents PUPPET PANTO.
When a bunch of puppets put on a show, how will they cope when everything starts to go wrong? What will they do to make sure the show can go on?!
Join our company of puppets on a bold and hilarious adventure full of mishaps, comedy and song. Can you help them solve their problems and put on a brilliant show?!
Although based on Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Puppet Panto is an original ...
31 December 2019
The Dolmen New Years Eve Party
Weymouth, Dorset
Music from The Dolmen, The Sensational Infernals, Electric Swing DJ & More...
*Themed dress code only, 1920's - 1950's Style, Gatsby, Peaky Blinders, Classic Swing Dance etc
**Free Glass of Bubbly and Buffet with every ticket**
*Strictly No Jeans or Trainers
**Limited Tickets Available!!
01 January 2020
BSO New Year Johann Strauss Gala
Poole, Dorset
Celebrate the New Year with an uplifting selection of waltzes, marches, polkas and arias by the King of Waltz, Johann Strauss and his contemporaries! The full symphonic forces of the BSO will be joined by outstanding soprano Soraya Mafi to bring you an afternoon of swirling melodies to carry you away into the glamour and sparkle of Viennese Dance Halls. Pieces include the Fledermaus Overture, waltzes from Der Rosenkavalier, Tritsch-Tratsch Polka, Emperor Waltz and, of course, The Blue ...
01 January 2020
Lyme Lunge
Lyme Regis, Dorset
Get your fancy dress costumes planned and made up for the Lyme Lunge on January 1st at the Sandy Beach, Lyme Regis, 1pm sharp.
01 January 2020
Poole Charity Bath Tub Race
Poole, Dorset
Clear the head at Poole's annual charity day of fundraising. See crazy crews take to the water in their home made crafts and race to be end with cheering crowds. Expect thrills, spills and sabotage along the way.
One of our most enjoyable annual events is the Bath Tube Race that occurs on New Year’s Day. This charity-focussed event involves crews crafting unique bathtub vessels and racing them along the quay from The Custom House Steps to the Lord Nelson.
Every year, rain or shine, ...
31 Dec 2019 to 01 Jan 2020
The Front Live
Weymouth, Dorset
Weymouth's biggest New Year's Eve party in association with Lazy Lizard and Aura.
Line-up so far:
Mistajam (Radio 1 DJ!)
Lovely Laura
Ben Santiago
More TBA!
Head to https://www.facebook.com/thefrontlive/ for more information.
21 Dec 2019 to 01 Jan 2020
Victorian Christmas at Beaulieu
Beaulieu,
New Forest, Dorset
Travel back in time and visit the Victorian Montagu family home this festive season.
Visit us from 21 December - 1 January* to see what the Montagu family members would have been doing during the festive season of 1889.
Sip a glass of warming mulled punch while you soak in the festive atmosphere of Palace House, with stunning decorations, welcoming log fires and a Christmas tree in each room - including a 22ft tree at the foot of the main staircase!
*Please note the Beaulieu ...
15 Nov 2019 to 02 Jan 2020
Christmas Tree Wonderland
Bournemouth, Dorset
Feel the wonder at Bournemouth’s unique, free festive trail 15 Nov 2019 – 2 Jan 2020.
Experience the magical, mystical and memorable spectacle of over 100 glittering trees and illuminations. Explore the Alpine Market and skate in the enchanting Victorian Lower Gardens. Enjoy live music, entertainment and magical illuminations across the town.
As the skies darken, enter a world filled with light as Christmas trees from around the world guide you through an enchanted walkway encountering ...
03 January 2020
'Frozen' inspired Children's Party
Poole, Dorset
Join us in Upton House for a children's Frozen inspired party, with very special guests (and photo opportunities with) Anna, Elsa and Olaf!
The brilliant AK Limelight will be offering 2 hours (10am to 12noon) of family fun, games and activities in the grand Drawing Room.
£5.95 per child (over 2s only), accompanying adults go free.
Booking essential - tickets available soon at uptoncountrypark.digitickets.co.uk (booking fee applies).
14 Dec 2019 to 04 Jan 2020
Pantomime: Cinderella
Weymouth Pavilion,
Weymouth, Dorset
This timeless tale follows our heroine, the beautiful Cinderella, on a mission to make her dreams come true as she heads off to the Royal Ball to meet her very own Prince Charming. But not everything will go quite to plan as her wicked Ugly Stepsisters have more than a few tricks up their sleeves to prevent poor Cinderella from getting her ‘Happy Ever After’!
No need to fear though, her HILARIOUS best friend Buttons is always on hand to cheer her up, and with a sprinkle of sparkle, her ...
20 Dec 2019 to 05 Jan 2020
Christmas Wreath Trail
Swanage, Dorset
Get the family involved in the festive spirit. Challenges for adults and kids. Prizes for everyone! £3. 11:00 to 15:00 daily.
Location: Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve, Lighthouse Rd, Swanage.
14 Nov 2019 to 05 Jan 2020
Ice Skate Bournemouth
Bournemouth, Dorset
Whether you're a Dancing on Ice champion, a total newbie or just about anything in between, you can be sure to find some festive euphoria on the surface of our real, genuine ice. The rink is held within the canopies of Bournemouth's Lower Gardens, which have been magically brought to life for the Christmas season.
07 Dec 2019 to 05 Jan 2020
Pantomime: Aladdin
Bournemouth, Dorset
From the producers that brought you Jack and the Beanstalk and Sleeping Beauty, comes the thrilling story of Aladdin .
Packed full of everything you’d want in a pantomime including laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and, of course, a flying carpet!
Follow Aladdin, his brother Wishee Washee, and his mother Widow Twankey, on a spectacular adventure.
Starring BBC EastEnders Richard Blackwood as Abanazar and The X Factor's Amelia Lily as Spirit of the Ring, ...
20 Dec 2019 to 05 Jan 2020
Pantomime: Dick Whittington
Wimborne, Dorset
After the enormous success of last year’s Pantomime, we are delighted to announce DICK WHITTINGTON as this year’s magical family pantomime at the Tivoli Theatre, produced once again by local professional company Made-to-Measure Productions!
Due to popular demand, there will also be another “Grown-ups Only” performance on :
Sat 4th Jan at 7pm (over 16’s only!) – Tickets £15 (£13.50 Early Bird Discount) + 10% for online bookings.
Full details will follow shortly on the website, but for ...
12 Dec 2019 to 05 Jan 2020
Pantomime: Jack and the Beanstalk
Poole, Dorset
The seeds have been sown for a magical Christmas as Lighthouse, Poole’s centre for the arts, is delighted to announce Jack and the Beanstalk as this year’s family pantomime.
Giant Blunderbore is in a terrible rage. He shouts from above threatening to eat any villager who won’t pay their rent. Poor Dame Trott has to sell her precious cow Buttercup and sends her son Jack to market to get the best price he can. Jack is in love with Jill, the Squire's daughter and is easily fooled by the ...
30 Nov 2019 to 05 Jan 2020
Skating in the Square
Brewery Square,
Dorchester, Dorset
Skating in the Square is open from Saturday November 30th 2019 until Sunday the 5th of January 2020. The rink is a great festive addition to the county town, bringing a delightful, Christmassy atmosphere to the heart of Dorchester.
So get your skates on and get ready for the return of the rink! Skating in the Square is now open for online bookings, So why not book online today and prepare to slip on your skates and really get in to the Christmas spirit at Brewery Square this year!
Head ...
10 January 2020
Paul Jones & Dave Kelly
Lyme Regis, Dorset
A guitar, harmonica, two authentic, thrilling blues voices and an envious repertoire of songs and reminiscences most musicians can only dream of. The lead singer of Manfred Mann and The Blues Band is joined by the guitarist who played with John Lee Hooker and Howlin’ Wolf.
Paul Jones presented his immensely popular weekly rhythm and blues show on BBC Radio 2 for over 25 years. Even that feat is only a thread in the tapestry of a career which began in 1962 when Brian Jones asked him to ...
10 January 2020
The Big Midwinter Ceilidh
Dorchester, Dorset
Tatterdemalion are the band of The New Hardy Players. As well as providing music for their productions, ‘The TatterBand’ play as an energetic and colourful ceilidh band, performing traditional tunes from the Hardy family and Ben Rose tune collections in a modern and fun style.
Tatterdemalion welcomes everyone to dance to their music, no experience necessary. Expert caller Angela Laycock is on hand to teach everyone, so come and have a good time and beat the cold of January.
Venue: The ...
11 January 2020
BSO New Year Johann Strauss Gala
Weymouth, Dorset
Celebrate the New Year at Weymouth Pavilion with an uplifting selection of waltzes, marches, polkas and arias by the King of Waltz, Johann Strauss and his contemporaries!
The full symphonic forces of the BSO will be joined by outstanding soprano Soraya Mafi to bring you an afternoon of swirling melodies to carry you away into the glamour and sparkle of Viennese Dance Halls.
Pieces include the Fledermaus Overture, waltzes from Der Rosenkavalier, Tritsch-Tratsch Polka, Emperor Waltz and, ...
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The latest Dorset articles from Resort Dorset are previewed below.
10 Dec 2019
Resort's Christmas Quiz
How well do you know Dorset?
We're stepping into the festive spirit with a 20 question (including a bonus question!) quiz to test your knowledge on Dorset.
With so many things to do, places to see, history and much, much more, there's a whole world of knowledge surrounding Dorset.
You may find some questions easy, or you may find some tricky, but there's only one way to find out.
It's time to showcase your knowledge on ... Read more...
4 Dec 2019
New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration. We raise a glass to the year that’s gone by, everything we’ve achieved, and that glass is also raised to the year ahead.
It is often spent with family and friends, the ones who have been by our side for last 12 months, and the ones we look to spend the next 12 months with.
For many of us, a change is about to happen. We step into the New Year with a fresh vision of exciting things to come.
Whatever you’re ... Read more...
3 Dec 2019
Christmas is nearly here and there’s a fun way to get you in the festive spirit — by ice skating in Dorset!
Nothing beats wrapping up, getting your skates on and heading out to glide (or stumble) across the ice, before treating yourself to a delicious hot chocolate afterwards. Whether you’re a cling-to-the-side kind of skater or have a Torville and Dean style, ice skating is a fab activity for all and a great way to get together with friends and family to have ... Read more...
2 Dec 2019
Dorset is surrounded by an 88-mile stretch of quite remarkable coastline. One of the pleasures of visiting (or living in) Dorset is that you’re never too far away from the beach – whichever beach that may be, because there’s plenty!
And by plenty, we mean loads! There are the major beaches such as the award-winning Bournemouth Beach and Weymouth Beach, along with the many smaller beaches such as Church Ope Cove. Take a look at some of many:
Chesil ... Read more...
26 Nov 2019
A fully-fledged member of the family, your four-legged friend doesn’t need to feel left out of the holiday loop and will be well-catered for when you come to dog-friendly Dorset.
Accommodation
When it comes to finding somewhere to stay, there’s no shortage of accommodation to choose from. Whether it’s camping, a caravan, cottage or lodge you’re after, Dorset has plenty of dog-friendly options to choose from to make the perfect holiday for you and your ... Read more...