What’s on in Dorset 2024
With the iconic Durdle Door, fossil-fuelled cliffs and plenty of beautiful biscuit-tin-looking villages, Dorset is a gem in the UK’s crown of national landscapes.
With plenty to see, and explore during the whole year, we’ve gathered up the highlights of 2024, filled with events and shows you should check out on your next stay at Littlesea, Rockley Park, Seaview and Weymouth Bay.
March
Swanage Blues Festival
Where: Swanage, BH19
When: February 29 till March 2
Taking residence across multiple locations in the town of Swanage, the Blues Festival is here to keep you grooving all weekend long! From British to Chicago vibes, there’s some blues music for everybody.
April
Spring Countryside Show
Where: Motcombe Turnpike Showground, SP7 9P
When: April 22
Meet some lambs, ride a tractor and shop some of the delicious and stunning local produce at the Spring Countryside Show. Discover some new gardening tips and pick up some new skills whilst you’re there too.
May
Shaftesbury Festival of Food & Drink
Where: Shaftesbury
When: May 5
One of the largest festivals in the South England region, Shaftesbury’s Festival is filled with delicious local produce, fun and frivolity. And don’t forget about their iconic Cheese Race up Gold Hill – it’s not to be missed!
Dorset Blind Association Motor Show
Where: Lulworth Castle, BH20 5QS
When: May TBC
Set in the stunning grounds of Lulworth Castle, Dorset Blind Association is bringing their motor show back for 2024! Going into its 8th year, you’ll get to see a whole range of classic cars, bikes and super cars.
June
Swanage Fairy Festival
Where: Sandpit Field, BH19 1AW
When: June 1
Swimming mermaids, bubble fairies, magic shows and so much more, the fairy festival is filled with fun, face painting and plenty of opportunities for you to make some magical memories.
Lyme Regis Fossil Festival
Where: Lyme Regis Museum, DT17 3QA
When: June 8
Calling all fossil enthusiasts, and non-enthusiasts alike, the Lyme Regis Fossil Festival is back with more talks, exhibitions, educational activities, and creative workshops. Get stuck in and find your gems of knowledge in this stunning location.
July
Dorset VW Festival
Where: The Showground, BH20 6AB
When: July 12
Set in 35 acres of the finest Dorset countryside, you’ll find a collection of classic, vintage, and new VW cars and vans waiting for you to explore! Filled with stunt shows, a trade village and plenty of activities for the kids, you’re guaranteed to have a blast.
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week
Where: Lyme Regis
When: July 20
Every year, the town of Lyme Regis hosts a weeklong event to support the RNLI and raise money in their name. Filled with activities from crab fishing to sand sports, there’s a whole lot for you to get stuck into.
August
Dorchester’s Bouncy Castle Kingdom
Where: Poundbury Park, DT1 3RH
When: August TBC
Designed for kids between 1-11 (Sorry adults, you’ll have to sit and watch all the fun!), Dorchester’s Bouncy Castle Kingdom is a paradise for all kids. You'll have a blast all day with a designated under 5s zone, plenty of treats to eat, and an iconic slushie to devour.
September
Film & Comic Con
Where: Bournemouth International Centre, BH2 5BH
When: September TBC
Grab your best cosplay, and don’t forget your signature book, Film & Comic Con is hitting Bournemouth. Browse the trading stalls, find those top-of-the-list collectables, and don’t forget to let your geek flag fly high with pride.
Shaftesbury Carnival
Where: Shaftesbury High Street
When: September 28
For over 148 years, Shaftesbury Carnival has been bringing buckets of lights, colour, and music to the streets of Shaftesbury. With a kids parade in the afternoon, and a grand illuminated parade after the sun drops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
October
Weymouth Pirate Fest
Where: Weymouth
When: October 6
Calling pirates, scallywags and seadogs! The notorious Pirate Parade will be making its annual comeback, where pirate buskers will be popping up and about with their roaring tunes, and rascally performances for you to enjoy.
The Gin to My Tonic Festival
Where: Bournemouth International Centre, BH2 5BH
When: October TBC
Get ready to embark on the ultimate craft gin and spirit adventure, as The Gin to My Tonic Festival is touring the UK once more. Come along and celebrate craft gins, vodka, cocktails and so much more!