Venue: Dorset
Website: https://www.primarytimes.co.uk/dorset/news/2019/07/summer-events-and-activities-in-dorset

Long sunny days, light evenings and six whole weeks of play – what’s not to love about the summer? Here’s just a few suggestions to help make your summer supersonic!

Top Ten Beach Hacks

Some top tips for beach days…

• Use a fitted bed sheet on the beach to keep sand out
• Place your valuables inside a clean, rolled-up nappy
• Use baby powder to remove sand from your skin
• Freeze your drinks the night before you go to the beach
• To ease on a stiff, dry wetsuit, put a carrier bag over each foot to let the wetsuit slide over your feet and legs
• Get changed underneath a long towelling cape
• Remember to pack some coins for the car park
• Visiting the beach often? Print off multiple copies of a beach essentials checklist
• Place your mobile in a little Ziploc bag
• Write your mobile number on a wristband for your child to wear

 

Get the Children to Create a Reward Chart!

Perhaps one of the easiest ways to get your children to do anything, is to make them believe that helping with a small task or chore was their idea all along.

So, let them create their very own reward chart, writing down the small jobs that they will need to accomplish before earning their treat (some compromising on the ‘rewards’ may be required here!) This is a fun way to earn treats that will help them associate hard work and good behaviour with positive outcomes.

 

 

Become a Rock Artist!

On your next trip to the beach or countryside, collect a few small pebbles or wide, grey stones for the children to later transform into little masterpieces. Painting pebbles or smooth stones is a super fun activity with results that add a happy splash of colour to any windowsill.

To turn a stone into a work of art, start by scrubbing the pebble clean, then letting it dry thoroughly. Encourage the children to dream up their design and then give them some poster or acrylic paint to convert the plain rock into something totally different! Allow the paint to dry and then cover it with a protective layer of clear nail varnish to give it a nice shiny finish.

 

Make a Yoghurt Ice-Lolly

500ml yoghurt

Fresh fruit such as strawberries or blueberries or raspberries

Jam or honey (optional)

Method

1. Pour the yoghurt into a bowl and add the fruit
2. Portion out the mixture into individual ice lolly moulds
3. Swirl in the jam to create funky patterns and to make the lollies look striking
4. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until frozen solid

 

It’s Playtime, all the Time, in your Local Park

Substitute screen time with play time in your local park or recreation ground and help your child reach their daily physical activity quota of 60 minutes+.

For younger primary school children, look out for a National Playday in a park near you. This year Playday will be celebrated on Wednesday 7 August and has the theme ‘Play Builds Children’. Visit www.playday.org.uk

 

 

Alien Encounters at Your Local Library

Launching in libraries across the county on Saturday 13 July, the Summer Reading Challenge will give young bookworms a welcome literary target to hit over the long summer holiday. Each year, the annual Challenge, which encourages children to borrow and read up to half a dozen books, brings three quarters of a million children into the libraries to keep up their reading skills.

This year, the Challenge celebrates its 20th anniversary and has a theme ‘Space Chase’, an out-of-this-world adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. Children will join a super space family, The Rockets, for a thrilling mission to track down books nabbed by mischievous aliens! Visit your local library to find out more.

 

Free Things to do This Summer...

 

Go for a Walk

Dorset is a true walker’s paradise! Your child is likely to take up a lifelong passion to this accessible activity if they are introduced to small segments of different walking routes and trails in the area during the summer.

The Coast Path Explorers is a new project aimed at getting families out exploring the South West Coast Path. Families can follow a map and find the rubbings to discover the wildlife and tales of the path - see www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk - coast-path-explorers.

If you fancy a walk that takes in the sights of Poole, you have a choice of two interactive trails along Poole Quay, Old Town and Harbourside Park -see www.pooletourism.com. There are some nice walks in Bournemouth along the River Stour too – see www.stourvalley.co.uk

 

Clean Up Dorset 

Plastic pollution is hot news at the moment. The huge public interest, helped by fabulous programmes like The Blue Planet, has resulted in a massive increase in volunteers cleaning up the beaches and countryside.

Do your bit for the planet and participate in one of many clean up events organised by Dorset Wildlife Trust (www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org); National Trust (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/beach-cleans); Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) (www.sas.org.uk/region/south coast).

If there's no beach clean happening near you then you can borrow your local Beach Clean Box and step up to organise your own - see www.sas.org.uk

 

Get Fit for Free

Many schools are adopting the daily mile challenge, where children run or jog for 15 minutes per day, so keep up the motivation throughout the summer holiday and take in some of the most picturesque parts of your local area in the process.

If your child needs a goal then they could participate in one of the Junior Park Runs across the county – there are a few timed 2k Junior Park Runs for kids aged 4-14 years, every Sunday at 9am, at Lodmoor Country Park in Weymouth; at Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood; at Poole Park and at Fawcetts Field in New Milton. See www.parkrun.org.uk

 

Take Part in the Big Butterfly Count

July and August are good months to see butterflies.  It’s when they are busy feeding on nectar, mating and breeding. Many common butterfly species can be seen all over Dorset.

Take part in the Big Butterfly Count between Friday 19 July and Sunday 11 August.

Read more at www.butterfly-conservation.org

 

 

Free Firework Displays

Attend one of the many summer regattas and festivals on the final day as many finish with a free firework display. In addition, there will be a free firework display at the Rockley Summer Spectacular on Poole Quay, every Thursday evening throughout the summer holiday. See www.pooletourism.com

 

 

 

 

Kite Flying

Take a look at www.nationalkitemonth.org/how-to-fly-a-kite for top tips on kite-flying including a reminder of the all-important safety advice such as flying kites away from roads, and overhead wires.

 

 

 

 

Love Parks Weeks – 12 July to 21 July

The aim of Love Parks Week is to raise awareness of the importance of parks and green spaces throughout the year. Local parks are great communal places to meet other mums and dads who have children at the same school as yours, making it easier to maintain contact over the school summer holiday. So, love your local park and celebrate what it has to offer. The official dates this year are from 12 July to 21 July. Visit http://www.keepbritaintidy.org/get-involved/support-our-campaigns/love-parks-week

 

 

National Fishing Month – 26 July to 1 September

Many people get hooked on fishing as it offers an idyllic escape route away from the daily grind to a mini waterside haven of tranquillity. For a child, the excitement of the first catch can leave a lasting impression, laying the foundations of what could be a lifelong passion.

During National Fishing Month, from 26 July to 1 September, there will be plenty of opportunities for children to experience the joys of fishing. Visit www.nationalfishingmonth.com

 

 

Take a look at some of the great events and activities taking place in and around Dorset this summer...

 

It’s Fun All the Way at Adventure Wonderland 

Multi award-winning family theme park Adventure Wonderland, with its great range of rides and attractions, is perfect for an unforgettable day out this summer. Family favourites include Jungle Falls, Wild Bill’s Runaway Train, Turbo Teacups and the live theatre show, Alice at the Musicals. Plus, there's the indoor adventure play centre, Wild Thing! with a brand new interactive fun reaction speed game, Jungle Zap Zone.

Visitors can meet the resident characters such as Alice, the Mad Hatter and Mr Rabbit. Plus, there's visiting characters including Bing and Flop on 31 July, Paw Patrol’s Skye and Marshall on 14 August and Peppa Pig on 28 August. Visitors can also meet the pint-sized ponies in the new Shetland World, where they’ll have the opportunity to pat and stroke them.

Children visiting the park will get same day free admission to the Aviation Museum opposite. For dates, times and further information see adventurewonderland.co.uk

 

Four Cute new Arrivals at Monkey World 

Monkey World is teeming with new life and has welcomed four endangered primate babies to the park this year. Bornean orangutan Hujan arrived at the park near Wareham in March, after his mother at Krefeld Zoo in Germany was unable to care for him.

At 18 months old, he is still very young- but “lucky” for him, one of Monkey World’s adult female orangutans, Lucky, has taken him under her wing. As part of the endangered species breeding programme, Monkey World has seen the births of a baby woolly monkey, loris and guenon. All three babies are healthy and happy living with their own kind at the park.

Visitors can see Hujan and pals every day at the park from 10am-6pm. For more details, visit www.monkeyworld.org, call 01929 462537 or email apes@monkeyworld.org.

 

Get Fit at one of SportBU’s Kids Camps 

The popular SportBU Kids Camps are back, ready to get the children fit and active over the school summer holiday. These great camps cater for children aged 5 to 14 years old and are suitable for all interests and abilities.

A huge range of sports and games are offered, ranging from multi-sport activities, badminton, volleyball, football, capture the flag, basketball and many more to keep the children entertained all day long. Additionally, there are half day camps for children aged 5-8 years, that focus on skill development. For bookings and information call 01202 965012.

 

A Full Moon in Weymouth this Summer

Fifty years on from the first moon landing, the Dorset art festival in Nothe Fort in Weymouth from Friday 12 to Sunday 14 July, will present Dorset Moon, an exciting new addition to the summer season.

After stunning audiences all over the world, Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon will debut in this stunning location where a full programme of free lunar-inspired events will create an experience that is out of this world. See www.dorsetmoon.com

 

Explore, Relax and Play at Honeybrook Farm 

Visit Honeybrook Adventure farm, near Wimborne this summer, for a fantastic value family day out. Honeybrook is a working Victorian farm with plenty of space to explore and relax.

See all of its animals with their new baby arrivals and enjoy a range of fun play areas. For full details, take a look at their advert in the latest Primary Times magazine.

Honeybrook Farm is open every day from 10am to 5pm. See www.honeybrookadventure.com

 

30th Birthday Celebrations at Woodlands Family Theme Park 

Join Woodlands, near Dartmouth in Devon, for its weeklong 30th birthday celebrations from 29 July to 4 August. Some of its favourite entertainment friends will be in attendance, such as Titan the Robot, Fizz Pop Science, Roary the Dinosaur, the Woodlands Supastarz and more.

In addition, there will be special prizes and competitions – so keep a look out for them! The fantastic events and activities continue into the Summer. Book your tickets online and receive up to 30% off. Plus, pitch up for a few days at its award-winning campsite right next door! Visit www.woodlandspark.com for full details.

 

Take the Plunge at Splashdown, Poole 

Schools out and there’s a flumin’ good day in prospect at Splashdown for the whole family. Take a plunge into the Mississippi Drifter for a fantastic river tyre ride, get into a spin on the Wave 105 Infinity with its funky laser lights and jukebox, whilst a roaringly good welcome awaits those who dare to enter the lair of the resident dragon.

Little ones can go swimming with the fishes on Ricky’s Reef, with its 3D effect reef liner – it is interactive waterplay especially for under 8’s. Plus, with sun terraces, a bubble spa and café, there really is something for everyone at Splashdown. For more, see www.splashdownwaterparks.co.uk or call 01202 716000.

 

Six Weeks of Summer at Upton Country Park 

Fun galore will be the order of the day at Upton Country Park, where there will be six full weeks of children’s workshops, parties and crafts. Spiderman will be visiting, there will be snakes to hold, rockets to make and dance moves to learn, amongst many other things. Kicking off the fun is Superhero Week from 20 to 26 July, followed by Wildlife Week from 27 July to 2 August. After that, there’s a Rockets and Planets Week from 3 to 9 August and a Sports Week from 10 to 16 August.

Towards the end of the holiday, there’s a Princess and Pirates Week from 17 to 23 August and finally a Greatest Showman Week from 24 to 30 August. Children who attend an event each week will also receive a special gift just before going back to school. Pre-booking essential for many parties and workshops. All information can be found at uptoncountrypark.com/events or ring 01202 262753.

 

Discover Activities Galore at Create at the Cove 

The friendly folk at Create at the Cove firmly believe the school summer holiday is a time for family fun. So, calling all mums and dads, nanas and granddads – take your youngsters to Create at the Cove in West Lulworth, just a stone’s throw away from Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, to discover creative activities galore!

This delightful indoor attraction sports a bright, spacious and welcoming interior plus has a super cafe serving a range of hot and cold refreshments throughout the day. There is no need to book, just turn up. See www.createatthecove.com

 

So Much to ‘Sea and Explore’ at the Oceanarium

Explore the Oceanarium this summer and discover the new display for 2019, ‘Shark Wreck Reef’. Come face to face with stunning sharks, southern stingrays and a giant turtle as you submerge yourself in the underwater tunnel. Get up close to playful penguins, mischievous otters, colourful clownfish and many more as you voyage around the watery world.

There’s also a kids’ play zone, Offshore Café and The Cove gift shop. Situated next to Bournemouth Pier, it’s the perfect all-weather attraction and with tickets valid all day, you can catch regular talks and feeds. Plus make amazing savings of up to 30% when buying tickets in advance online during the summer holidays at www.oceanarium.co.uk

 

Children Go Free to The Blue Pool 

A truly delightful family attraction since 1935, the magical Blue Pool is surrounded by tranquil woods and heathland with many sandy paths. Visiting families can take an imaginative stroll and enjoy becoming a ‘Searcher and Finder’ looking for squirrels, fairy doors and much more.

Whilst there, visit the gift shop and Teahouse which serves coffee, light lunches and delicious Cream Teas made with homemade scones. Entry is £7.50 per adult, £6.50 per senior and all children under 16 are admitted free. Find The Blue Pool at Furzebrook near Wareham, BH20 5AR. See www.bluepooltearooms.co.uk

 

Start your Family Holiday with United Taxis

United Taxis now covers a wide area, from Poole all the way across to Lymington, and has extended its fleet to cope with extra demand, ensuring customers receive a reliable, professional service at all times.

United Taxis regularly takes families to airports and the docks to begin their holiday and offers a set fee on journeys to and from Bournemouth airport, if pre-booked on a credit card. To book your holiday transportation call 01202 556677 or browse the website and download the App at www.556677.com

 

Pottery Painting Fun - Whatever the Weather!

Whatever the weather decides to do this summer, pay a visit to Bella Ceramics to enjoy some pottery painting fun. There are plenty of individual ceramic pieces to choose from and paint, and some incredibly tasty, freshly baked cookies and ice lollies to try. Find Bella Ceramics on Facebook or call 01305 780343 or email bella@bellaceramics.co.uk

 

 

Retro Fun at Roller City South

Roller City South brings the retro fun of the roller disco to venues in Christchurch, Poole, Wimborne and Salisbury, and has been doing so for over 30 years.

So, whether you are a beginner or a roller skate whizz, everyone is welcome at Roller City South. Check out the website for more information at www.rollercitysouth.co.uk

 

 

Summertime Shows at Wimborne Model Town

Wimborne Model Town, the original 1/10th scale walk-around model village of 1950’s Wimborne, has loads of activities lined up for families this summer.

There will be free quizzes, a chance to discover shops from long ago and popular family fun shows with magic and puppets on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the school holiday.

Families will be entertained further on Wednesday afternoons in August, with a programme of storytelling, music and crafts.

See www.wimborne-modeltown.com for further details.

 

 

Crealy’s Popular Hydro High Dive Show Returns this Summer

Crealy’s breath-taking Hydro High Dive show is returning to the popular family theme park and resort this summer. Back by popular demand, the show features aerial stunts and dives from a team of professionals.

Divers in this year’s fireman-themed show, will be performing hair-raising stunts into a small pool less than five metres deep. So, prepare to be amazed as you watch the Crealy Brigade fight fires and carry out synchronised dives, comedy dives, and fly through the air ignited in flames from heights of 80 feet into the pool below.

The show will be performed at intervals between the hours of 10am and 5.30pm every Monday to Saturday from 22 July until 31 August. Visiting families can also enjoy over 60 rides and attractions, and more than 75,000 square feet of indoor play areas.

If that isn’t enough, then take your swimsuits and cool off in Crealy’s Soak Zone or head over to the Aqua Blasters where you can zoom around the lagoon in a bumper car and fire your water cannon at anyone who gets in your way. There is so much fun to be had at Crealy this summer and with the seven days for the price of one offer, it is fantastic value for money too. For more information or to book tickets visit www.crealy.co.uk

 

Act, Sing and Dance Your Socks Off with Swish of the Curtain 

Have you got what it takes to put on a whole show in just a week? Are you prepared to act, sing and dance your socks off?

If so, then why not try one of Swish's Musical Theatre Summer Schools this July and August in Dorset and Hampshire.

There are 2 different age groups - The Greatest Showman for 4-7-year olds and Hairspray for 8-14-year olds.

Find out more at swishofthecurtain.co.uk/courses or call 01202 418999.

 

Loads of Summer Fun in the Garden this Summer 

Groves Garden Centre in Bridport will be hosting a fantastic array of events and workshops this summer. Children, inspired by the surroundings of the wonderful Groves garden, can make a bug hotel, a pizza, a magical garden diorama and beautiful gift cards in workshops held this school holiday.

Local clown Strawberry Jam is also performing comedy magic and circus skills workshops. The Summer Fun in the Garden will begin at the Groves Summer Fair on Saturday 27 July. Plus, an installation from Challenger Escapes is onsite throughout July, providing an innovative and exciting Escape Room experience. To book a workshop or Escape Room experience visit www.grovesnurseries.co.uk. Find Groves Nurseries and Garden Centre in Bridport DT6 4BA.

 

Journey to the Ocean Depths at Weymouth Sea Life 

Explore an amazing underwater world and take a fascinating journey to the ocean depths at Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park. Get up close to over 1,000 creatures in 15 different zones, including playful otters, mesmerising sharks, and rescued sea turtles.

Then meet the world’s smallest penguins at Fairy Penguin Island. Native to Australia, the Fairy Penguins are the only colony that you can see in the UK. With fun talks, animal feeds, a Splash Zone and adventure play area - plus a fantastic ‘Pirates & Mermaids’ event included this summer - there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy at Weymouth Sea Life. See www.visitsealife.com/weymouth

 

Have a RockReef Adventure to Remember

Summer fun starts on Bournemouth Pier. RockReef is a family-friendly activity centre for ages 4 and upwards, with 28 Clip ‘n Climb walls, a high ropes course, a tunnel system and thrilling adrenaline activities, there’s something for everyone. Try the new Ultimate Adventure ticket, a two hour session including all indoor activities. Or upgrade your Clip ‘n Climb to a Climb ‘n Fly and take on the PierZip – the world’s first pier to shore zipline. For details ring 01202 237916

 

Create Lifelong Memories with the National Trust 

The National Trust has many special places in Dorset, perfect for making the most of the long summer days and for helping to create lifelong memories. You can get close to nature, find perfect picnic spots, explore the coast and countryside or discover living history.

At Corfe Castle for example, you can travel back to the turbulent 12th century and find out how our ancestors lived and fought as you meet knights, scribes and siege engineers. Find out more about a summer in Dorset at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dorset

 

Brickosaurs at Marwell Zoo

Brickosaurs is a prehistoric interactive experience at Marwell Zoo featuring 50 life-sized sculptures displayed around the zoo as part of an interactive trail, with a free spotter guide.

Plus, there will be a Brickosaurs Basecamp, open from 10am to 4pm daily, with two brick pits, a ‘mega head’ dinosaur photo opportunity, a Lego brick jeep photo experience and a face painting station. Highlights include the largest touring Lego brick dinosaur model ever made – a massive eight-metre T-Rex – plus fantastic displays all over the park. See www.marwell.org.uk

 

Adults Pay Kids’ Price at Cineworld Weymouth 

This summer visit Cineworld Weymouth where adults pay kids' prices to see the latest family blockbusters. From the exciting Toy Story 4 and the highly anticipated live action The Lion King to the hilarious Spies In Disguise, The Queen’s Corgi and the epic comedy adventure Playmobil: The Movie.

Planning your little one’s first visit to the world of movies? Why not try Cineworld Weymouth’s Movies For Juniors screenings throughout the summer holiday at just £2.50 a ticket.

Book now at www.cineworld.com/weymouth

 

Family Have-a-Go Stone Carving Sessions

On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout the school holiday children will be able to take home a unique piece of stone carving at one of the family have-a-go stone carving sessions.

All bookings must be made in advance. Contact info@burngatestonecentre.co.uk or ring 01929 439405.

 

 

Summer Fun at the Museums 

 

Find the Fairies at the Russell-Cotes 

Stepping into Russell-Cotes’ Victorian home, museum and art gallery feels like you’ve stepped back in time. From the moment you enter the building you’ll be amazed by the unique architecture, art collection and beautiful objects from across the world.

This summer, go and find the fairies at the bottom of the garden. There will be magical crafts, trails, competitions and games all summer long, from 27 July to 1 September. For further information, visit www.russellcotes.com/summer

 

Shire Hall – A New Historic Courthouse Museum 

You cannot pigeon-hole the experience of visiting Shire Hall in Dorchester – forget everything you think you know about museums! It is a place where history is brought to life through hidden trails and interactives.

There is a warmth and humour to this museum – it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Instead, it takes ideas about museums, and justice, and creates something unique, moving and relevant to modern life. History lives at Shire Hall and it can bring you up short – it’s a million miles from a traditional stuffy museum. Find Shire Hall Historic Courthouse Museum in High West Street, Dorchester. For more, ring 01305 261849 or see www.shirehalldorset.org

 

Join in the Fun at Lyme Regis Museum 

Whatever the weather there will be lots to do this summer at Lyme Regis Museum. Take part in the free creative workshops and don’t miss the stunning display of fossils in the geology gallery.

Lyme Regis Museum will be open all week, from 10am – 5pm, with an action-packed timetable of dinosaur and fossil inspired activities happening every day in the education space, with its stunning views over Lyme Bay. For more: call 01297 443370 or see www.lymeregismuseum.co.uk

 

Shows, Fayres and Festivals 

Dorset Dogs Festival: Saturday 17 August 

Dorset Dogs Festival is a popular free annual event, celebrating dogs, the countryside and wild creatures. This year it will happen at the new Canford Park SANG, one of Dorset’s most dog-friendly and beautiful locations, with the added bonus of free parking.

It truly is a lovely place for dogs and people, with wheelchair and pushchair friendly paths meandering through riverside meadows and woodland areas. It promises to be a fabulous, family-friendly day out with lots of refreshments, free activities, stands and a large marquee. Entry is free and the event will run from 11am to 4pm.

Read more at www.dorsetdogs.org.uk

 

 

Swanage Carnival: Saturday 27 July to Saturday 3 August

Every day of the Swanage Carnival week will be packed full of fun filled events and entertainment for all ages. Notably, brand new events for this year will include Granny Tourismo, the world’s first Shopping Trolley Dance Display Team and The Black Eagles, a group of energetic acrobatic performers. Plus, with Bubblena and the Bubble Wizard and Circus Whizz, along with two thrilling air displays, it will be hard to stay away! In addition, there will be entertainers, music and fireworks - not forgetting the Carnival procession. Full details of the events will be in the carnival programme, available from July 2019. For more, see www.swanagecarnival.com

 

Sting in the Tale Festival: A Field of Stories: From Saturday 27 July 

In an era dominated by technology, storytelling fires the imagination and brings generations together. Sting in the Tale celebrates this timeless tradition with a 10-day festival in Wimborne, launching with a free, family storytelling, art and craft event "Field of Stories" on Saturday 27 July.

Through storytelling performances, street theatre and puppet shows, visitors will meet a host of colourful characters from The Gingerbread Man to Epico the Dragon, naughty Japanese Tanuki to Highwaymen. Children can craft paper puppets, shadow lanterns, Norse masks, or clay figures. Field of Stories marks the start of a packed week of activities and performances for all ages; pick up a festival brochure or visit www.stinginthetale.org.uk.

 

The Great Dorset Steam Fair: Thursday 22 to Monday 26 August

The Great Dorset Steam Fair is perfect for the heritage lover, the historian, the music enthusiast, the kid-at-heart, the countryman and the thrill seeker!

This year the show will feature extensive working displays of steam, industrial and agricultural exhibits, a breath-taking World War One display, a large music festival, country crafts, stunt displays including Monster Trucks, a large travelling fairground and endless entertainment for the whole family.

Call 01258 860361 or see www.gdsf.co.uk

 

 

Milton Abbas Street Fair: Saturday 27 July 

The villagers of Milton Abbas invite families to join them between 11am and 5pm, on the 27 July, at their 18th Century Street Fair. Step back in time for a full day of entertainment for all ages, including music Morris Dancing, Punch and Judy and artisan demonstrations. There will be a variety of food and drink on offer and over 100 stalls. Whatever the weather, there will be something for everyone.

 

 

Bournemouth Arts by the Sea Festival: Friday 27 to Sunday 29 September

Bournemouth Arts by the Sea Festival returns for its 9th instalment from 27 to 29 September. The festival promises an inspirational and diverse celebration of the arts featuring over 100 unique thought provoking performances, installations and artistic endeavours in the heart of Bournemouth’s town centre.

Experience an intoxicating mix of street theatre, live music, dance and spectacular outdoor shows providing fun and entertainment for all the family. Most performances will be free. The full festival line up will be announced through June and July - see www.artsbythesea.co.uk.

 

 

Summer Survival Tips…
 

1. Keep Calm! You don’t need to fill every minute of every day with exciting adventures. It will only exhaust you, and anyway children don't need that much stimulation. Besides, if you work or are tied to other commitments, remember it's quality time that counts.
 

2. Be Flexible. Find out what childcare options are available in your area. Although some parents share childcare with friends, relatives and each other, others balance it with children's clubs. A variety of options will make childcare more satisfactory for everybody.
 

3. Let your children get bored. Seriously! It may be a challenge, ignoring the whining, but, in time, imaginations dream up ideas. Children need unplanned chill-out time just as much as we do. 
 

4. Just relax and remember it's your holiday, too. Give yourself a break. Don't feel guilty if you pack the kids off for the day, or get a sitter-in for a night out. You need and deserve time to rest up and unwind.
 

5. Re-establish their normal school routine in good time. Although summer holidays are all about late nights and long days, children will need to re-adjust as the holiday comes to an end. That way, bedtimes won't be such a struggle when they do go back to school.