What's On in Dorset

Summer of Sport and Music at Castlepoint

Venue: Castlepoint Shopping Park

Website: www.castlepointshopping.com

Open air live screenings of sporting events and music festivals on the LED big screen. See the website and social media for event updates

Drop in craft activities at Charminster Library

Venue: Charminster Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/charminster-library

Horrid Henry and Wimpy Kid crafts. All ages

Summer Holiday at Durlston

Venue: Durlston Country Park

Website: www.durlston.co.uk

Pirates of Purbeck Activity Trail, interactive displays, 340 acres of meadows, Wild Play - see website for full schedule

Treasures of the toolkit family quest

Venue: Corfe Castle

Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/corfe-castle

Hunt the castle ruins to learn about and collect the tools for your very own castle conservator toolkit

Summer Skate

Venue: Bournemouth Lower Gardens

Website: www.summerskate.co.uk

Roller rink, yoga and fitness, movie nights, live music

Wildlife Photographer Of The Year

Venue: Dorset Museum and Art Gallery

Website: www.dorsetmuseum.org

Exhibition with over 100 powerful photographs capturing fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species and the beauty of our planet

Sumer Games at Corfe Castle

Venue: Corfe Castle

Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/corfe-castle

Discover a variety of games dotted around the ruins

Summer of Play at Brownsea Island

Venue: Brownsea Island

Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/brownsea-island

See who can build the best den, make some wild art and have a go at animal yoga poses

Summer of Play at Kingston Lacy

Venue: Kingston Lacy

Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy

Explore the festival field of fun, dance at the the bug ball, put on a performance at the giant puppet theatre and find lots of games and activities and adventures as well as two wonderful play areas to...

Drop in craft activities at Christchurch Library

Venue: Christchurch Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/christchurch-library

Angelica Sprocket's Pockets - what can you make

Drop in craft activities at Christchurch Library

Venue: Christchurch Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/christchurch-library

Treasure hunt and mystery books - all ages

Drop in craft activities at Rossmore

Venue: Rossmore Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/rossmore-library

Be creative - weekly crafts

Drop-in craft activities at Boscombe

Venue: Boscombe Library

Website: https://www.facebook.com/boscombelibrary/?locale=en_GB

Busy bees craft - all ages

Drop-in craft activities at Branksome Library

Venue: Branksome Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/branksome-library

Book character treasure hunt and takeaway craft. All ages

Summer Fun

Venue: Wimborne Library

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5277442/432965/maximized

Be Marvellous Makers and join in for weekly crafts, treasure hunts, fun with Lego, colouring and stories!

Summer Holiday: Inventions

Venue: The Tank Museum

Website: www.tankmuseum.org

Summer holiday fun with tank displays, kids' activities, new exhibition and more

Smugglers and Sandcastles: A Seaside Adventure

Venue: Museum of East Dorset

Website: www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Explore the fascinating world of smugglers and seaside fun with this exciting trail and activities including creating your own secret code, secret crafts and making your own treasure map

Family Activity Trail - Walking with the Elementals

Venue: Upton Country Park

Website: www.uptoncountrypark.com

Family activity trail with faerys, gnomes, elves, pixies and mermaid doors and houses

Inflatable Obstacle Course Event

Venue: Littledown Park

Address: Bournemouth

Website: www.tuffnutterz.co.uk

Inflatable obstacle course - see website for details

Inside Out 2

Venue: The Mowlem

Website: www.themowlem.com

Screening of the new Pixar/Disney sequel

Showtime

Venue: The Mowlem

Website: www.themowlem.com

Production from Ranger School of Dance

Smugglers and Sandcastles: A Seaside Adventure!

Venue: Museum of East Dorset

Website: www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Explore the fascinating world of smugglers and seaside fun with this exciting trail and activities including creating your own secret code, secreat crafts and making your own treasure map

Summer holidays at RockReef

Venue: Rock Reef

Address: Bournemouth Pier

Website: www.rockreef.co.uk

Indoor activities open from 10am every day. Visit the website to find out more about these and PierZip

Summer Holidays at RockReef

Venue: Bournemouth Pier

Website: www.rockreef.co.uk

Indoor activities open from 10am every day. Visit the website to find out more about these and PierZip

Camp Bestival

Venue: Lulworth Castle

Website: www.campbestival.net

Music festival designed for families with music, entertainment and activities

Drop in craft activities at Kinson Library

Venue: Kinson Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/kinson-library-in-kinson-hub

Junk modelling - ages 5+

Bournemouth Reggae Weekender

Venue: Bournemouth

Website: www.bournemouthreggaeweekender.co.uk

Independently run 3 day event celebrating the diverse African-Caribbean culture and heritage in Bournemouth through Reggae music with a full range of entertainment and traditional activities that supports...

Bridport Folk Festival

Venue: Bridport

Website: www.bridportfoodfestival.co.uk

Folk festival with a full line-up of performers - see the website for details

BSO Proms In The Park

Venue: Meyrick Park

Website: www.bsolive.com

Weekend of music and fireworks and two spectacular concerts. Classical Extravaganza on 26th July and Disco Symphonic spectacular on 27th

Circus Vegas

Venue: Branksome Recreation ground

Website: www.circusvegasuk.com

All new spectacular 2024 show - see website for details

Poole Harbour Festival 2024

Venue: Poole

Website: www.pooleharbourfestival.com

Music festival headlined by Razorlight and The Coral with tribute acts, kids entertainment and camping available

Shaftesbury Fringe Festival

Venue: Shaftesbury

Website: www.shaftesburyfringe.co.uk

Arts festival with over 160 artists and performances - see the website for details

Volleyball Classic

Venue: Weymouth Beach

Website: www.weareweymouth.co.uk

Volleyball matches - see website for details

Angelica Sprockets Pockets

Venue: Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis

Website: www.marinetheatre.com

Outdoor production with live music, puppetry and audience interaction

Family Fun Day at Wimborne Rugby Club

Venue: Wimborne Rugby Club

Animals, entertainment, outdoor games, soft play, facepainting and refreshments in support of Wimborne Food Bank

Inside Out 2

Venue: Electric Palace

Website: www.electricpalace.org.uk

Screening of the new Disney Pixar sequel

Myths and Monsters

Venue: Langton Matravers

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Performance by Squashbox theatre suitable for ages 6+ guiding you through the strange and magical world of ancient Greek stories using a quirky and ingenious belend of puppetry, storytelling, live music...

Quiet at the Aquarium

Venue: SeaLife Weymouth

Website: www.visitsealife.com/weymouth

Quieter experience for those with autism and other neurodiverse conditions - book online

Relaxed Openings at Dorset Museum and Art Gallery

Venue: Dorset Museum and Art Gallery

Website: www.dorsetmuseum.org

Opportunity for visitors to have the chance to explore the Museum and take part in drop-in activities outside of regular busy hours. Sessions suitable for any group or individual who would like to visit...

Rock The Future

Venue: Lighthouse Poole

Website: www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

West End' style summer show from Strictly Stage Theatre including excerpts form the newly award-winning musicals Mrs Doubtfire, Back to the Future and Blood Brothers

Swanage Carnival

Venue: Swanage

Website: www.swanagecarnival.com

8 days of family fun-filled events and entertainment for all ages in Swanage with a Jurassic Rocks theme. See the website for more details

Weymouth Food and Family Festival

Venue: Lodmoor Country Park

Website: www.weymouthfoodandfamilyfestival.co.uk

Two day event for all the family with cookery demos, dog shows, live music, human stunt man, dood and drink producesrs as well as a variety of arts and craft vendors

Cillian O' Connor: My Kind of Magic

Venue: Bournemouth Pavilion

Website: www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

First ever live stage show from the Britain's Got Talent finalist with special guest Ryland Petty from Americas Got Talent

Drop in craft activities at Boscombe Library

Venue: Boscombe Library

Website: https://www.facebook.com/boscombelibrary/?locale=en_GB

Summer wreaths craft activity

Drop in craft activities at Castlepoint

Venue: Canford Cliffs Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/canford-cliffs-library

Recreate an artist's masterpiece or design your own

Drop in craft activities at Christchurch Library

Venue: Christchurch Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/christchurch-library

Create a moving fish

Drop in craft activities at Creekmoor

Venue: Creekmoor Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/creekmoor-library

Dream of a story and make a dreamcatcher. All ages

Drop in craft activities at Hamworthy

Venue: Hamworthy Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/hamworthy-library

Summer fun - let's get creative - all ages

Drop in craft activities at Highcliffe Library

Venue: Highcliffe Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/highcliffe-library

Crafts and treasure hunts - age 5+

Drop in craft activities at Pokesdown and Southbourne

Venue: Pokesdown and Southbourne Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/pokesdown-and-southbourne-library

Desert Island Getaway mulit-media collage

Drop in crafts at Westbourne Library

Venue: Westbourne Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/westbourne-library

Create a story dice

Drop-in craft activities at Canford Cliffs

Venue: Canford Cliffs Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/canford-cliffs-library

LEGO mighty machines for ages 4+

Family Open Day at Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Venue: Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Website: www.facebook.com/weymouthoec

Celebrating 60 years of Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre, with bunting, birthday cake and advetnurous activities. £5 per person, 10am to 3pm. Min age 6

Family open day at Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Venue: Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Website: www.facebook.com/weymouthoec

Celebrating 60 years of Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre with bunting, birthday cake and adventurous activtiies. £5 per person, 10am to 3pm - min age 6

Sensational Sea Creatures' Clay Workshop and Museum entry

Venue: Museum of East Dorset

Website: www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Create your very own air drying clay sea creature - for ages 6 to 16. Booking essential. Limited number of Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) places available

Sensational Sea Creatures' Clay Workshop and Museum Entry

Venue: Museum of East Dorset

Website: www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Create your very own air drying sea creature - for ages 6 to 16. Booking essential. Limited number of Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) places avialable

As You Like It

Venue: Forde Abbey and Gardens

Website: www.fordeabbey.co.uk

Outdoor production of the Shakespeare comedy from Folksy Theatre

42nd Street

Venue: Bournemouth Pavilion

Website: www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

Performance of the timeless and inspiring showbiz fairytale that combines tap dance routines, backstage intrigue, classic romance and delightful comedy

Stop Motion Animation

Venue: Buckland Newton

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Create new characters and film scenery using card, plasticine, wire and found objects then use laptops and cameras to capture them moving on screen. Learn all about storyboarding, set building, model...

The Pop Party

Venue: Lighthouse Poole

Website: www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

Immersive concert for families featuring songs from artists including Little Mix, Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Ed Sheeran and more

A Midsummer's Nights Dream

Venue: Holme for Gardens

Website: www.holmeforgardens.co.uk

Outdoor production of the Shakespeare play from Chapterhouse Productions

African Drumming

Venue: Alderholt

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Interactive drumming workshop sor adults and children aged 5+ to enjoy together featuring djembe drums and dum dums

Game maker workshop

Venue: Weymouth Library and Learning Centre

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5262216/432965/maximized

Make your own games and puzzles from recyclable materials to celebrate the Marvellous Makers theme of the Summer Reading Challenge 2024. For ages 8+.

Michael Rosen

Venue: Electric Palace

Website: www.electricpalace.org.uk

Performance with one of the world's best selling children's authors and poet including a Q&A and book signing - 2 performances are available

Peter Pan

Venue: Maumbury Rings

Website: www.dorchesterarts.org.uk

Outdoor performance of the classic tale with live music and song from Sisata

Be dog smart with the Dogs Trust

Venue: Corfe Mullen Children's Centre and Library

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5269615/432965/maximized

Join Vicky from the Dogs Trust for a free, fun family workshop. Children will learn all about staying safe around dogs, and how to keep our four-pawed friends happy! There won’t be any real dogs at the...

Songs In The Summer

Venue: Nothe Fort

Website: www.nothefort.org.uk

fun filled evening of live music under the stars with Wessex Musical Theatre

The Secret Garden

Venue: Athelhampton

Website: www.athelhampton.com

Outdoor performance of the classic story

Lulworth reopens

Venue: Lulworth

Website: www.lulworth.com

Castle, Grounds and Walks reopen after closing for Camp Bestival

Create a paper dancer

Venue: Gillingham Library

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5275140/432965/maximized

Come and create a dancing figure to take home using paper and crayons.  Places are limited.  Please book via the library.  Younger children may require adult help with paper folder.  Suitable for ages...

Drop in craft activities at Castlepoint

Venue: Castlepoint Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/castlepoint-library

Junk modelling - all ages

Drop in craft activities at Christchurch Library

Venue: Christchurch Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/christchurch-library

Highway Rat origami and mask making

Drop in craft activities at Creekmoor

Venue: Creekmoor Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/creekmoor-library

Make a traditional Story Stick

Drop in craft activities at Oakdale Library

Venue: Oakdale Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/oakdale-library

Rainbow Magic and Beast Quest activities - age 5+

Drop in craft activities at Pokesdown and Southbourne

Venue: Pokesdown and Southbourne Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/pokesdown-and-southbourne-library

Treehouse tales recycling craft - age 4+

Drop in craft actvities at Kinson Library

Venue: Kinson Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/kinson-library-in-kinson-hub

Its alive - a Frankenstein 3D glasses craft

Drop in crafts at Westbourne Library

Venue: Westbourne Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/westbourne-library

Create a Cat In The Hat collage

Drop-in craft activities at Branksome Library

Venue: Branksome Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/branksome-library

Marvellous Makers treasure hunt

Drop-in craft activities at Canford Cliffs

Venue: Canford Cliffs Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/canford-cliffs-library

Give Peas a Chance - make your own veg patch card

Full moon paddle at Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Venue: Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Website: www.facebook.com/weymouthoec

Take to the waters in the shimmer of a summer full moon with glowsticks in stable sit on top kayaks. You will be guided as a group by qualified instructors to keep you safe - £20pp, 7:30pm to 10:30pm

Full moon paddles at Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Venue: Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Website: www.faebook.com/weymouthoec

Take to the waters in the shimmer of a summer full moon with glowsticks in stable sit on top kayaks. You will be guided as a group by qualified instructors to keep you safe. £20pp, 7:30pm to 10:30pm

Lights Camera Action

Venue: Sturminster Newton

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Exciting workshop for all abilities to be part of a specially made dance film learningin the skills needed to make your own at home. Learn the choreography and film the dance for the camera as a group,...

Pinch Pot Farm Animals

Venue: Swanage

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Hands-on workshop developing pottery skills with air drying clay. For ages 7+

Peter and the Wolf

Venue: Corfe Castle

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Form a shadow puppet theatre group - creating and staging Peter and the Wolf on a shadow screen. For ages 8+

Wonderful wildlife and snake bookmarks

Venue: Corfe Mullen Children's Centre and Library

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5081760/432965/maximized

Learn about Dorset's wonderful heathland wildlife, and discover more about their snakes! Event with the Urban Heaths Partnership. Free, drop-in event.

Create a comic workshop

Venue: Weymouth Library and Learning Centre

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5262274/432965/maximized

Design and create your own comic book inspired by the Summer Reading Challenge 2024 Marvellous Makers theme! Make your comic book pages and learn storyboarding techniques for writing and drawing. For ages...

Explore Learning sessions - The Festival Challenge

Venue: Winton Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/winton-library

Marvellous Makers themed workshops

Lyme Regis Candles Down The River

Venue: Jericho Bridge

Website: www.lymeregiscarnival.co.uk/candlesdowntheriver

Sponsor a candle in memory of a loved one and watch s it drifts gently down the river Lim in the quietness of the evening as the light fades over Lyme Regis

Mini Beast Safari Kids Activity

Venue: Durlston Country park

Website: www.durlston.co.uk

Meet a Ranger at the Learning Centre to hunt for mini-beasts including moths, grasshoppers and more of Britain's largest insects

Stones and Bones: Squashbox Theatre

Venue: Bridport Millenium Green

Website: www.bridport-arts.com

History and mystery themed show for ages 5+ form Squashbox Theatre

The Story Den: Adventures In Storyland

Venue: Litton Cheney

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Music-filled ride through colourful myths and folktales of India - suitable for ages 4+

The Tale of Jemima Puddle Duck

Venue: Highcliffe Castle

Website: www.highcliffecastle.co.uk

Outdoor performance of the classic Beatrix Potter story from Quantum Theatre

Ultimate Pro Wrestling Beach Bash

Venue: Weymouth Pavilion

Website: www.weymouthpavilion.com

Wrestling show - see the website for details

As You Like It

Venue: Holme for Gardens

Website: www.holmeforgardens.co.uk

Performance of the Shakespeare play from Folksy Theatre

Camping in the summer

Venue: Farmer Palmer's Farm Park

Website: www.farmerpalmers.co.uk

Camping opportunity

Jurassic Monsters

Venue: Hinton Martell

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Air drying clay workshop - suitable for ages 5+

Peter Pan

Venue: Abbey Farm

Website: www.abbeyfarmabbotsbury.co.uk

Production of the classic story from SISATA

Purbeck Rally

Venue: Wareham

Website: www.purbeckrally.com

50th anniversary of this Rally with arena events, trade stalls, entertainment and more

The Adventures of Dr Dolittle

Venue: Maumbury Rings

Website: www.dorchesterarts.org.uk

Open air performance of the classic story by Illyria

Christchurch Carnival

Venue: Christchurch Quay

Website: www.christchurchcarnival.co.uk

Free community event raising money for local non-profit organisations and charities

Circus Berzercus - A Komedy of Errors

Venue: The Allendale Centre

Website: www.theallendale.org

Family show with an optional circus skills workshop recommended for age 5+

How To Train A Dragon

Venue: Brewery Square

Website: www.brewerysquare.com

See Olaf the Ice Dragon, Make your own crowns and wants, dragon taming shows

Lyme Regis Carnival Procession

Venue: Lyme Regis

Website: www.lymeregiscarnival.co.uk

Carnival procession bringing colour, music, dance and entertainment

Peter Pan

Venue: Museum of East Dorset

Website: www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Performance of the classic tale from SISATA

The Ellingham Show 2024

Venue: Somerley Park

Website: www.ellinghamshow.co.uk

Horse show, livestock, heavy horses, dog show, donkey show, horticulture, steam engines, classic cars and other attractions

Park to Pier Walk

Venue: From Durlston Castle

Website: www.swanagepiertrust.com

Meeting at Durlston Castle, join a Ranger for a stroll from Durlston Castle to Swanage Pier on the way discovering the history, wildlife and geology of Durlston Bay. Once you reach the Pier, you will...

Peter Pan

Venue: Bridport Millenium Green

Website: www.bridport-arts.com

Playful and honest adaptation fo the timeless tale with original live music and song from SISATA

Dreaming Up Dragons

Venue: Ibberton Village Hall

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Create your own fiery Dragon to take home. Your colourful artworks will be brough to life using simple 3D building techniques and materials - suitable for ages 6+

Drop in craft activities at Boscombe Library

Venue: Boscombe Library

Website: https://www.facebook.com/boscombelibrary/?locale=en_GB

Dancing Dinos - all ages

Drop in craft activities at Christchurch Library

Venue: Christchurch Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/christchurch-library

How to Draw…..characters in frames -all ages

Drop in craft activities at Creekmoor

Venue: Creekmoor Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/creekmoor-library

Make a buzzy bee craft

Drop in craft activities at Pokesdown and Southbourne

Venue: Pokesdown and Southbourne Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/pokesdown-and-southbourne-library

Design a storybook character puppet - age 4+

Drop in crafts at Springbourne Library

Venue: Springbourne Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/springbourne-library

Origami Everything - all ages

Drop in crafts at Westbourne Library

Venue: Westbourne Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/westbourne-library

Make a Roald Dahl mobile from CDs

Drop-in craft activities at Canford Cliffs

Venue: Canford Cliffs Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/canford-cliffs-library

Julian is a Mermaid paper dolloutfits

Safe by the sea with Karen from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Centre

Venue: Shaftesbury Library

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5274764/432965/maximized

Join Karen Towner for a story, colouring and crafts focussed on being safe at sea. There will be an opportunity for children to try on our junior firefighter’s uniform and helmets. Suitable for children...

The Dorset Sunflower Trail

Venue: Maiden Castle Trail

Website: www.facebook.com/maidencastletrail

Sunflower trail raising funds for Dorset County Hospital Charity's Emergency

Yarn wrapped plants

Venue: Gillingham Library

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5275124/432965/maximized

Create yarn wrapped plants - for ages 5 to 12 years

Dreaming Up Dragons

Venue: Swanage

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Create your own fiery Dragon to take home. Your colourful artworks will be brough to life using simple 3D building techniques and materials - suitable for ages 6+

Explore Learning sessions - The Festival Challenge

Venue: Tuckton Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/tuckton-library

Marvellous Makers themed workshops

Make a flapping seagull puppet workshop and Museum entry

Venue: Museum of East Dorset

Website: www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Create your own flapping seagull - for ages 6 to 16. Booking essential. Limited number of Holiday Activities and Food places available

Make a Flapping Seagull Puppet Workshop and Museum Entry

Venue: Museum of East Dorset

Website: www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Create your own flapping seagull for ages 6 to 16. Booking essential. Limited number of Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) places avaialble

3D Art Canvas Art

Venue: Weymouth Library and Learning Centre

Website: https://dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5262105/432965/maximized

Make your own 3D work of art that jumps off the page by crafting 3D art from recyclable materials, to celebrate the Summer Reading Challenge 2024 Marvellous Maker theme!

Explore Learning sessions - The Festival Challenge

Venue: Poole library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/poole-library

Marvellous Makers themed workshops

Explore Learning sessions - The Festival Challenge

Venue: Rossmore Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/rossmore-library

Marvellous Makers themed workshops

Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Show

Venue: Turnpike Showground

Website: www.gillinghamandshaftesburyshow.co.uk

Arena performances, craft and countryside area, Heavy Horse Village, livestock, showjumping, food and drink area, steam, vintage and classic vehicles, shopping pavilions and more

Peter Pan

Venue: Red House Museum and Gardens

Website: www.hampshireculture.org.uk

As above

Safe by the sea with Karen from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Centre

Venue: Corfe Mullen Children's Centre and Library

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5270577/432965/maximized

Safe by the sea with Karen from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire, and Rescue Service. Wednesday 14th August, 2:30pm-3:30pm at Corfe Mullen Library. Aimed at 4-8 years but all ages welcome. Fun activity and story...

A Midsummer Night's Dream

Venue: Nothe Fort

Website: www.nothefort.org.uk

Open air performance of the classic Shakespeare play from The Duke's Theatre Company

Illuminated Horses

Venue: Sarah Butterworth

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Use a variety of cane, willow and coloured tissue paper to create your own illuminated horse - suitable for ages 10+

The Secret Diary of Henry VIII

Venue: Highcliffe Castle

Website: www.highcliffecastle.co.uk

Outdoor performance of the classic Shakespeare play from The Duke's Theatre Company

We Out Here Festival

Venue: Wimborne St Giles

Website: www.weoutherefestival.com

Award winning festival celebrating world-class music alongside wellness, family and cultural activities

Explore Learning sessions - The Festival Challenge

Venue: Pokesdown and Southbourne Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/rossmore-library

Marvellous Makers themed workshops

Jurassic Dance Festival

Venue: Wilkswood Farm, Langton Matravers

Website: www.jurassicdance.com

Family friendly festival with kid's zone and weekend and day tickets available

The Comedy of Errors

Venue: Higher Orchard, Sandford Orcas

Website: www.theinchfools.com

Outdoor adaptation of the Shakespeare play from Three Inch Fools

The Comedy of Errors

Venue: Sandford Orcas Higher Orchard

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Performance of Shakespeare's comedy from Three Inch Fools

Bastien et Bastienne

Venue: Holme for Gardens

Website: www.holmeforgardens.co.uk

Performance of Mozart's debut opera

Bridport Carnival and Torchlight Procession

Venue: Bridport

Website: www.bridportcarnival.com

See the website for the proposed schedule of events

Canford Summer Fair

Venue: Canford School

Website: www.thewessexeventcompany.co.uk

Over 100 stalls, food, drink, home and garden, live music and kids entertainers

The Guy In The Luggage Rack

Venue: Bridport Millenium Green

Website: www.bridport-arts.com

Aerial theatre show about grief, memory and relationship

Eat:Shaftesbury

Venue: Park Walk, Shaftesbury

Website: www.eatfestivals.org

Food festival

Skatefest 2024

Venue: Blandford Skate Park

Website: www.blandfordforum-tc.gov.uk

Free workshops for all ages. Equipment is provided, demonstrations form professional skateboarders, BMX and scooter riders

Circus skills

Venue: Sturminster Newton

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Have a go at circus tricks in a fun and active workshop - for ages 5+

Curiosity of the Wild

Venue: Hooke Farm

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Outdoor workshop where you can look at the tracks and signs of terrestrial British wildlife. Suitable for ages 5+

Drop in craft activities at Castlepoint

Venue: Castlepoint Library

Website: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/castlepoint-library

Junk modelling - all ages

Acting Up

Venue: Halstock

Website: www.artsreach.co.uk

Take part in a series of team-building games and theatrical devising and improvisation activities - for ages 7+

Fascinating families: make your own top hat or bonnet

Venue: Corfe Mullen Children's Centre and Library

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5028395/432965/maximized

Create your own historical hat and learn all about the fascinating families of Upton House. What does it have to do with a shipwreck on the other side of the world? Please contact the library to book your...

Back To The Future

Venue: Upton Country Park

Website: www.adventurecinema.co.uk/venues/upton-country-park

Outdoor screening of the classic 80s film with music to enjoy before the movie

Melplash Show

Venue: West Bay Road near Bridport

Website: www.melplashshow.co.uk

Agricultural exhibition with exhibits including livestock, horses, homecrafts and horticulture and over 400 trade stands - see the website for full schedule of events and activities

Music makers crafts

Venue: Weymouth Library and Learning Centre

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5262333/432965/maximized

Make your own musical instruments from recyclable materials, inspired by the Summer Reading Challenge 2024 Marvellous Makers theme! Make snack pots into drums, paper plates into shakers, and transform...

Harry Potter and The Philosopher's Stone

Venue: Purbeck Film Festival at Corfe Castle

Website: www.purbeckfilm.com

Outdoor screening of the much loved book adaptation

Lyme Folk Weekend

Venue: Marine Parade, Lyme Regis

Website: www.lymefolk.com

Four day festival of free live folk music, shanty singing, storytelling and ceilidh dancing along the seafront

Abbey Farm Flower Festival

Venue: Abbey Farm

Website: www.abbeyfarmabbotsbury.co.uk

Celebration of all things floral with stalls, refreshments, workshops, talks, walks and music

Go Nuts at Monkey World

Venue: Monkey World

Website: www.monkeyworld.org

Every child who brings an unopend bag of nuts for the primates receives a free Monkey World badge over the bank holiday weekend

Grease Sing-A-Long

Venue: Upton Country Park

Website: www.adventurecinema.co.uk/venues/upton-country-park

Outdoor screening of the musical film with a soundtrack of 60s, 70s and 80s music to enjoy before the movie

The Oak Fair

Venue: Stock Gaylard

Website: www.theoakfair.com

Celebration of conservation with over 200 exhibitions, arena shows, woodland activities, traditional crafts, trailer rides, bushcraft skills

Wonka

Venue: Purbeck Film Festival at Corfe Castle

Website: www.purbeckfilm.com

Outdoor screening of the recent Willy Wonka prequel adventure

A Midsummer Night's Dream

Venue: Sherborne Girls School

Website: www.chapterhouse.org

Outdoor of the Shakespeare play from Chapterhouse

Railway Day

Venue: Wimborne Model Town

Website: www.wimborne-modeltown.com

See the website for details

Railway Day

Venue: Wimborne Model Town

Website: www.wimborne-modeltown.com

See the website for details

Anonymous Festival

Venue: Borough Gardens

Website: www.anonymousfestival.co.uk

Music festival celebrating young, local talent - see website and social media for details

Foam Fridays at Farmer Palmer's Farm Park

Venue: Farmer Palmer's Farm Park

Website: www.farmerpalmers.co.uk

Foam Party event with music, foam and lots of crazy dance moves

Summer Family Fun Day at Child In The Wild Forest School

Venue: Child In The Wild Forest School

Website: www.childinthewildforestschool.com

BBlQ on the campfire, scavenger hunt, nature arts and crafts, eco-glitter tattoos, bug hunting, Smores and hot chocolate and more

Are You A Recycling Champion

Venue: Upton Library and Children's Centre

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5274563/432965/maximized

Join the Dorset Council recycling team to make grass heads, make a badge and play a beanbag toss game. Suitable for ages 4 and above and their adults. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult....

Stop Motion Stories

Venue: Weymouth Library and Learning Centre

Website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/library-events/-/ddl_display/ddl/5262628/432965/maximized

Create stories with stop-motion technology, modelling clay, and Lego! Inspired by the Marvellous Makers Summer Reading Challenge 2024 theme. Bring your smart devices and enjoy an hour of stop motion with...

Angelica Sprockets Pockets

Venue: Holme for Gardens

Website: www.holmeforgardens.co.uk

Outdoor family performance from Folksy Theatre

Summer Community Fun

Venue: Wyke Gardens

Website: www.weymouthtowncouncil.gov.uk

See website for details

As You Like It

Venue: Highcliffe Castle

Website: www.highcliffecastle.co.uk

Outdoor theatre show from The Three Inch Fools

Bournemouth Air Festival

Venue: Lulworth Castle House

Website: www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Packed programme of world-class aerobatic displays with entertainment for all ages including fairground rides, Pier to Pier trading, fireworks, vintage displays and demonstrations from the Armed Forces...

Outdoor theatre: Doctor Dolittle

Venue: Kingston Lacy

Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy

Outdoor performance of the classic story suitable for ages 5+ from Illyria

Pride and Prejudice

Venue: Holme for Gardens

Website: www.holmeforgardens.co.uk

Outdoor performance of Jane Austen's classic story by Chapterhouse

Purbeck International Music Festival

Venue: Various venues

Website: www.picmf.org

Music festival taking place in historic locations, churches, unusual sites and schools - see website for schedule

Science Museum: The Live Stage Show

Venue: Bournemouth Pavilion

Website: www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

Brand new touring stage show from The Science Museum which aims to ignite your curiosity and inspire you in new and exciting ways

Illyria: the Gondoliers

Venue: Bridport Millenium Green

Website: www.bridport-arts.com

Evening of laughter, music and pure entertainment

B-Side Arts Festival

Venue: Portland

Website: www.b-side.org.uk

Arts festival - see the website for details

Classic and Steam Vehicle Show

Venue: Swanage Railway

Website: www.bppcltd.com

Varied selection of vintage, modern and custom motorbikes, classic cars and more - children go free

Swanage Folk Festival

Venue: Swanage

Website: www.swanagefolkfestival.com

Weekend of fun with concerts, dance, music, workshops, children's activities, sessions and ceilidh

The Merry Wives of Windsor

Venue: Maumbury Rings

Website: www.dorchesterarts.org.uk

Open air performance of Shakespeare's classic play

Autumn Plant and Gardening Fair

Venue: Forde Abbey and Gardens

Website: www.fordeabbey.co.uk

Stalls and craftspeople - see website for details. Children up to the age of 15 go free

Bournemouth Vegan Festival

Venue: Citygate Church,

Address: Bournemouth

Website: www.veganeventsuk.co.uk/dorset-vegan-festival

60+ stalls, world food caterers, exciting cookery demos, inspirational talks, interactive workshops, yoga and children's activities

Bridport Hat Festival

Venue: Bridport

Website: www.bridporthatfest.org

Fun Hat Competition, mass hatted photo, live music and more

Dorset County Show

Venue: Dorchester Showground

Website: www.dorsetcountyshow.co.uk

Two day event showcasing Dorset agriculture, countryside and rural life

Dorset Seafood Festival

Venue: Weymouth Peninsula

Website: www.dorsetseafood.com

Food and drink festival with chef's theatre, live music and family fun

Open Garden at Sheepwash Barn

Venue: Symondbury

Address: Bridport

Website: www.findagarden.ngs.org.uk

Open event at this half acre garden - kids go free - see website

Dear Zoo

Venue: Lighthouse Poole

Website: www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

Stage adaptation of the classic children's book with puppets, music and lots of audience interaction

Heritage Open Day at Highcliffe Castle

Venue: Highcliffe Castle

Website: www.highcliffecastle.co.uk

Visit Highcliffe Castle for free

Heritage Open Days - Lulworth Castle House

Venue: Lulworth Castle House

Website: www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Visit the Weld Family home in the grounds of Lulworth Castle - the Entrance Hall and Drawing Room will be open to view - the gardens are not open

Berwick St John Country Fayre

Venue: Berwick St John Country Fayre

Website: www.berwickstjohncountryfayre.co.uk

Country show - see the website for details

Family kayak taster session

Venue: Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Website: www.facebook.com/weymouthoec

Try the sit on top kayaks in the sandy shallows of Sandsfoot Beach, Weymouth with an experienced and friendly instructor to help guide you. £20pp - to 5pm

Family Paddleboard taster

Venue: Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Website: www.facebook.com

Test your balance on the inflatable stand-up paddleboards in the calm waters of Portland Harbour or Weymouth Bay with an experienced and friendly instructor to help guide you. £20pp, 10am to 1pm, minimum...

Family paddleboard taster

Venue: Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Website: www.facebook.com/weymouthoec

Test your balance on the inflatable stand up paddleboards in the calm waters of Portland Harbour or Weymouth Bay with an experienced and friendly instructor to help guide ou. £20pp 10am to 1pm - minimum...

Films & Fun: Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs

Venue: Lighthouse Poole

Website: www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

Screening of the much-loved animated fun

Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Show

Venue: Turnpike Showground

Website: www.gillinghamandshaftesburyshow.co.uk

Livestock events, craft and countryside area, Heavy Horse village, showjumping, agriculture, food and drink area, stalls and more

Heritage Open Days - Corfe Festival of Cultural Heritage

Venue: Corfe Castle

Website: www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Free entry to the castle for all visitors, hands-on demonstrations from local craftspeople, stalls, talks and displays

Seafood and Sounds Festival

Venue: Poole Old Town and Quay

Website: www.seafoodandsounds.co.uk

Free to attend event with premium seafood and live music. See website for details of the lineup

South West Model Show

Venue: Tank Museum

Website: www.tankmuseum.org

See and buy models with indoor and outdoor trders and displays, sci-fi and more with specialist talks and tours

Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival

Venue: Sturminster Newton

Website: www.cheesefestival.co.uk

Artisan food, cheese, live music and more

Vintage Weekend

Venue: Wimborne Model Town

Website: www.wimborne-modeltown.com

See the website for details

Vintage Weekend

Venue: Wimborne Model Town

Website: www.wimborne-modeltown.com

See the website for details

Heritage Open Days - The Keep Military Museum

Venue: The Keep

Website: www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Free admission to the Keep with a brand new guide to the building itself, a new children's trail and craft activities

Ironman 70.3 Weymouth

Venue: Weymouth

Website: www.ironman.com

Series of long distance triathlon races - see website for spectator information

Peter Pan

Venue: Lighthouse Poole

Website: www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

New retelling of the classic novel with original live music and song

Apple Weekend

Venue: The Ancient Technology Centre

Website: www.ancienttechnologycentre.com

Celebration of the apple harvest, apple pressing, rural craft displays and more

Cirque: The Greatest Show

Venue: Bournemouth Pavilion

Website: www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

Show with musical theatre showstoppers and jaw-dropping circus

Early Bird Walk and Breakfast

Venue: Brownsea Island

Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/brownseaisland

Be led on a wander around the island, lakes and lagoon followed by a breakfast. Booking essential.

Wessex Heavy Horse Show and Country

Website: www.wessexheavyhorsesociety.co.uk

Heavy horse themed show with lots of activities - see website for details

30% off Oceanarium memberships

Venue: Oceanarium

Address: Bournemouth

Website: www.oceanarium.co.uk

See the website for details

Beautiful Bournemouth Mini Exhibition

Venue: Russell Cotes Museum

Website: www.russellcotes.com

Discover the evolution of Bournemouth through this display in the Print Room

Easter Crafts at Broadstone Library

Website: www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries

Craft activities

Easter Crafts at Canford Heath Library

Easter Hunt at Moors Valley Country Park

Venue: Moors Valley Country Park

Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk/easter

Find the hidden giant Easter egg shapes around Moors Valley - solve the riddles, spot the eggs and write down the letters to work out the hidden answer

Pieces of our Past

Venue: Highcliffe Castle

Website: www.highcliffecastle.co.uk

Experience the history of the Castle with never before seen photographs and artefacts

Rebellion and Revolt

Venue: Museum of East Dorset

Website: www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Thought provoking exhibit delving into two pivotal national struggles that profoundly impacted Dorset: the English Civil War of the 1640s and the Monmouth Rebellion of 1685. Themed trail around the Museum,...

West Bay In The War

Venue: West Bay Discovery Centre

Website: www.westbaydiscoverycentre.org.uk

Discover what happened locally in WW2. Find out about local memories, coast defences and more