Events and what's on in Bournemouth
The bustling seaside town, Bournemouth, is home to extremely popular events due to its range of attractions. With the best beach in the UK, vast shopping facilities, gardens and a busy nightlife attracts a range of bands, singers, comedians, beach events and much more.
Whilst large events regularly occur at Bournemouth's famous beach such as the Bournemouth Air Festival, the BIC (Bournemouth International Centre) hosts frequent worldwide names across performing arts.
Take a look at what's on in Bournemouth below, you're likely to find something just for you.
View Bournemouth Events by Date:
The next 22 events in Bournemouth appear below.
18 October 2025
Romance Writing Festival
Bournemouth, Dorset
A must-do for all romance writers!
Join us for talks, walks, panels, workshops and networking events by the sea in Bournemouth.
Plus, an exclusive VIP package to supercharge your romance writing!
27 October 2025
Creepy Critter Creations
Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Let's get spooky and crafty with our Halloween Crafts event, where creativity meets the spirit of the season!
Join us for some Creepy Critter Crafting on Monday, 27th October.
Session times are 10 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm and 3 pm. Each slot will last one hour, and children will have a selection of at least four crafts to get creative with.
29 Oct 2025 to 31 Oct 2025
Halloween Trail Hengistbury Head
Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Dare to join us for a spooky adventure on our Halloween Trail - get ready for surprises around every corner!
Get ready for thrills and chills because our Halloween Trail is returning, and it's more spectacular than ever!
This year, we’ve completely transformed our stations to deliver an unforgettable experience that’s packed with surprises at every turn. Join us for a trail of eerie excitement and spine-tingling fun—book your spots now and dive into the ultimate Halloween adventure!
Your ...
01 November 2025
Michael Jackson Tribute on Bournemouth Pier
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
You’ll be thrilled by MJ this Halloween – Michael Jackson tribute live at Key West on Bournemouth!
On Saturday 1st November, We welcome James Aston as Jackson Live!
Come and witness Europe’s number one tribute to the King of Pop!
Truly passionate and authentic 100% LIVE soundalike/lookalike in James Aston. A stunning visual rollercoaster that is… AS CLOSE AS IT GETS !!!
As it’ll be close to Halloween, we welcome you to dress up in your best Halloween costume! Dress to impress!
Event ...
25 Oct 2025 to 02 Nov 2025
October Half Term Fun at RockReef
RockReef,
Bournemouth, Dorset
RockReef and PierZip will be open daily 25th October – 2nd November.
October Half Term Fun Begins with RockReef & PierZip!
Do you live in Bournemouth and want something to keep the kids entertained over half term whatever the weather? Are you staying in the area and are looking for fun things to do at the Bournemouth seafront?
Book your adventure online today and save money off your ticket price!
08 November 2025
Bournemouth Littledown Fireworks
Bournemouth, Dorset
The Bournemouth Fireworks, featuring three giant displays in one night. Your ticket gives you access to all three shows at 7pm, 8pm, and 9pm, with gates opening at 5pm.
The event includes a live music arena and fire performer shows. Inside, there is a large indoor area with plenty of activities for children, as well as a bar and catering. Outside, a “Have a Go” sports area allows everyone to try different sports for free. There is also a large funfair and a variety of food and drink ...
08 November 2025
Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience on Bournemout
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
We’re delighted to announce that Faulty Towers The Dining Experience returns to Key West on Bournemouth Pier. Straight from the stage of London’s West End via the legendary Sydney Opera House, this international sensation returns for its 5th year in 2025!
Become part of the action as Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve up mayhem on a platter along with five stars, three courses and two hours of non-stop laughter. Expect nothing short of guaranteed fun and a brilliant night out as you climb ...
14 November 2025
Westbourne Rotary Club Presents… Live Music in Aid
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Join us for a fantastic evening celebrating music legends with Kelly Lorraine at Key West, Bournemouth Pier's most fun venue! Enjoy stunning sea views as we pay tribute to the incredible Stevie Nicks & Tina Turner’s music!
Make a Difference with Every Ticket! Every single penny goes directly to two amazing charities: The Dorset Cancer Care Foundation and Green Island Holiday Trust. Your night out will directly support two important local causes.
Event details:
6pm – Doors open
7pm – DJ ...
15 November 2025
Jongleurs Stand Up Comedy on Bournemouth Pier
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Key West Presents… Comedy on Bournemouth Pier with Jongleurs
Jongleurs Comedy returns for a hilarious line-up to Key West on Saturday 15th November 2025!
This is your chance to enjoy a night full of laughs with some of the top comedians!
Whether you’re local or just looking for a hilarious night out, this event is perfect for anyone searching for the best stand-up comedy in Bournemouth.
Round up your mates and join us for a night filled with laughter, food, and drinks—all served with a ...
22 November 2025
Drag On The Pier Vicki Vivacious Sleighs the Night
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Join us on Saturday 22nd November as Vicki lights up the pier with her trademark wit, sparkle, and show-stopping performance. The venue will already be dressed in full festive style, so expect twinkling lights, fabulous vibes, and the perfect excuse to kickstart your party season – even if the show itself isn’t wrapped in tinsel. Not just glitz and glamour - Get ready for big laughs, powerhouse vocals, and a night that sleighs from start to finish.
Event Details:
Saturday 22nd ...
28 November 2025
Scrooge: A Christmas Dining Experience
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Above the waves, an immersive 3-course dining & theatre experience returns to Bournemouth Pier!
Retuning to Bournemouth Pier for the 2nd year! – Step into the timeless tale Of ‘A Christmas Carol’ and become part of the story at our immersive dining experience. ‘Scrooge Dining Experience – A Grave Tale of Things to Come’ at Key West on Bournemouth Pier is a totally immersive, poignant and unique first-of-a-kind Christmas experience!
Event Details:
Friday 28th November 2025
Tickets are ...
14 December 2025
Breakfast With Santa on Bournemouth Pier
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Back by popular demand for the 4th year running, Santa will be journeying down from the North Pole to visit all the good girls and boys and share a festive breakfast at Key West Bar & Grill. Keep an eye out of our panoramic windows and maybe you’ll see him flying across the Dorset coastline!
TICKET INCLUDES:
• All Tickets include multiple visits to our freshly cooked Breakfast buffet!
• Tea, barista style Coffee, hot toast, lemonade & Coke are included. Cordials are also available for ...
19 December 2025
Christmas Drop ‘N Go!
RockReef,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Need Time for Christmas Shopping without the Kids? Whether you're out celebrating or tackling your festive to-do list, our Drop ‘n Go sessions have you covered!
Your children will stay active and engaged with fun, confidence-building activities like climbing, harness skills and more, while you enjoy some well-deserved time to yourself.
Drop ‘N Go Includes:
❄️ 3 hours of fun (including safety briefing & food break)
❄️Full access to everything inside RockReef, with the Ultimate Adventure ...
20 December 2025
Breakfast With Santa on Bournemouth Pier
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Back by popular demand for the 4th year running, Santa will be journeying down from the North Pole to visit all the good girls and boys and share a festive breakfast at Key West Bar & Grill. Keep an eye out of our panoramic windows and maybe you’ll see him flying across the Dorset coastline!
TICKET INCLUDES:
• All Tickets include multiple visits to our freshly cooked Breakfast buffet!🍳
• Tea, barista style Coffee, hot toast, lemonade & Coke are included. Cordials are also available for ...
21 December 2025
Breakfast With Santa on Bournemouth Pier
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Back by popular demand for the 4th year running, Santa will be journeying down from the North Pole to visit all the good girls and boys and share a festive breakfast at Key West Bar & Grill. Keep an eye out of our panoramic windows and maybe you’ll see him flying across the Dorset coastline!
TICKET INCLUDES:
• All Tickets include multiple visits to our freshly cooked Breakfast buffet!🍳
• Tea, barista style Coffee, hot toast, lemonade & Coke are included. Cordials are also available for ...
22 December 2025
Breakfast With Santa on Bournemouth Pier
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Back by popular demand for the 4th year running, Santa will be journeying down from the North Pole to visit all the good girls and boys and share a festive breakfast at Key West Bar & Grill. Keep an eye out of our panoramic windows and maybe you’ll see him flying across the Dorset coastline!
TICKET INCLUDES:
• All Tickets include multiple visits to our freshly cooked Breakfast buffet!🍳
• Tea, barista style Coffee, hot toast, lemonade & Coke are included. Cordials are also available for ...
22 December 2025
Christmas Drop ‘N Go!
RockReef,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Need Time for Christmas Shopping without the Kids? Whether you're out celebrating or tackling your festive to-do list, our Drop ‘n Go sessions have you covered!
Your children will stay active and engaged with fun, confidence-building activities like climbing, harness skills and more, while you enjoy some well-deserved time to yourself.
Drop ‘N Go Includes:
❄️ 3 hours of fun (including safety briefing & food break)
❄️Full access to everything inside RockReef, with the Ultimate Adventure ...
23 December 2025
Breakfast With Santa on Bournemouth Pier
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Back by popular demand for the 4th year running, Santa will be journeying down from the North Pole to visit all the good girls and boys and share a festive breakfast at Key West Bar & Grill. Keep an eye out of our panoramic windows and maybe you’ll see him flying across the Dorset coastline!
TICKET INCLUDES:
• All Tickets include multiple visits to our freshly cooked Breakfast buffet!🍳
• Tea, barista style Coffee, hot toast, lemonade & Coke are included. Cordials are also available for ...
31 December 2025
New Year's Eve with ABBA's Angels on Bournemouth P
Key West,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Have the time of your life this New Years on Bournemouth Pier with ABBA Angels!
Key West on Bournemouth Pier will be transformed with a red carpet entrance and full room décor, live music from ABBA Angels and our resident DJ Mark Rush Palmer will bring you all the party hits to see the new year in! We promise you a full evening of fun to end 2025 and begin 2026!
Your ticket price will include all of the following:
Wednesday 31st December
• A delicious 3-course meal all crafted by our ...
02 January 2026
Christmas Drop ‘N Go!
RockReef,
Bournemouth, Dorset
Need Time for Christmas Shopping without the Kids? Whether you're out celebrating or tackling your festive to-do list, our Drop ‘n Go sessions have you covered!
Your children will stay active and engaged with fun, confidence-building activities like climbing, harness skills and more, while you enjoy some well-deserved time to yourself.
Drop ‘N Go Includes:
❄️ 3 hours of fun (including safety briefing & food break)
❄️Full access to everything inside RockReef, with the Ultimate Adventure ...
13 Nov 2025 to 04 Jan 2026
Skate Bournemouth 2025
Bournemouth, Dorset
SKATE ICE RINK
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.
13 Dec 2025 to 22 Feb 2026
Cool Coast Ice Rink Bouremouth 2025
Bournemouth, Dorset
Cool Coast Ice Rink is the largest indoor ice skating rink on the South Coast. Located in Bournemouth International Centre from November to February, it’s the perfect winter activity with friends and family. Enjoyed by so many every year, it’s even a great way to stay fit and active over the wintery months. At Cool Coast you can enjoy a fun filled ice skating session regardless of the weather outside and being indoors, we’ve always got you covered - literally!
Ice skating session times ...
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Shops & ServicesLatest Bournemouth Features
The latest Bournemouth articles from Resort Dorset are previewed below.
1 Oct 2025
Over 60 Spooktacular Halloween Events!
The October half-term is now synonymous with Halloween and all the spooky fun that comes with it. If you’re planning to celebrate Halloween in Dorset, you’re in for a treat! From ghostly adventures to pumpkin-filled family fun, the county is bursting with events for all ages. Grab your broomsticks, sharpen those fangs, and prepare to have one hell of a good time!
It's scary how much there is to choose from. Whether ... Read more...
24 Sep 2025
As proud sponsor of the Impact Support Category, Resort Dorset is excited to celebrate the incredible finalists announced for the 2025 Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) DMB Tourism Awards.
This year’s shortlist reflects the strength, creativity and resilience of our region’s tourism and hospitality sector, with businesses and individuals who are raising the bar for visitor experiences across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
Tourist ... Read more...
21 Sep 2025
So, it’s the October half term and you may be wondering how you’re going to keep the kids entertained!
Well don’t worry, whether you are local resident or are staying in Dorset on a break, there’s lots to do throughout the half term holidays. If you're looking for things to do in Dorset we have found lots of Dorset events to keep you entertained. Our Resort family has children of different ages, here are some of the things we plan to enjoy during the ... Read more...
14 Jul 2025
Top Firework Displays in Dorset 2025
1. Bournemouth Fireworks – Friday Night Spectaculars
Location: Bournemouth Beach / Pier
Dates: Every Friday night from 25th July until the end of August
Why Go: Watch spectacular fireworks light up the sky over Bournemouth beach. These displays are set off near Bournemouth Pier and are part of the town’s vibrant summer festivities. Bournemouth Fireworks are free to attend and perfect for families, couples, and ... Read more...
23 Jun 2025
18 Family-Friendly Dorset Attractions for 2025
From sandy beaches to historical hideouts, animal encounters to adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Dorset is packed with places to make this summer unforgettable. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents in tow, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Dorset Museum & Art Gallery
Here are 18 top Dorset attractions that deserve a place on your summer must-visit list!
1. Dorset ... Read more...
More articles available in the features section.
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