Camp Bestival
One of the county’s biggest festivals returns to Lulworth Castle! Designed with kids in mind, Camp Bestival has no shortage of activities to keep the little ones entertained, but it also packs a punch when it comes to live music with the Sugarbabes, Basement Jaxx and Tom Jones headlining this year. The undercard is equally eclectic ranging from Mr Tumble’s sing-a-long to Dick and Dom’s drum and bass rave up.
Great Dorset Chilli Festival
With a festival tagline of “some like it hot… and some don’t”, you get an idea of the range of options available at this food festival. Expect a celebration of the noble chilli with chili related talks, cooking-with-chilli demonstrations, and of course the chilli eating competitions! Organisers are keen to emphasise that you don’t need to like chilli to attend as there’s plenty more food to try too, including some Dorset ice cream to cool your mouth down if you're brave enough to up the spice level.
Stompin on the Quomps
A heartwarming, free, and award-winning community festival on Christchurch Quay with an array of jazz music, good food and family fun (hopefully in the sun). A host of local food and drink producers will keep you refreshed throughout the afternoon. Run by the team that brings you Swanage Jazz Festival, we’re still waiting to hear about this year’s line up - but previous acts have included Pee Wee Ellis, Snake Davis and Redtenbacher’s Funkestra.
Summer Camp 2025
Sign up for this creative summer art camp for kids aged 7-12 in Poole.
Proms in the Park
The world-renowned Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO) returns to Bournemouth’s Meyrick Park for its popular Proms in the Park concerts this August. Friday night is a Classical Extravaganza, which features some of the best, most recognisable pieces ever written in both classical music and classic film. Saturday is the Symphonic Smash Hits, a nostalgic look back to some of the biggest hits of the 80s, including classic songs by Madonna, George Michael, Elton John, David Bowie and many more.
Purbeck Valley Folk Festival
This year’s Dorset Original Music Awards ‘Best Festival’ winner (see page 52 for more info on the awards). This staple in the Dorset festival calendar is a must-attend for lovers of great music, carrying an eclectic mix of international and local talent. A family-friendly event with enough local cider and ale for late night parties, the site boasts incredible views across the Purbecks. This year’s line-up includes Elephant Sessions, Dervish, Edgelarks, Ushti Baba and more.
We Out Here
This family-friendly festival relocated to Dorset four years ago and continues to attract thousands of people from across the country. We Out Here aims to place genre pioneers alongside the best in emerging talent across the realms of soul, hip hop, house, afro, electronica, jazz and everything in between, plus pop-up record stores, charity shops, talks and a family area. Under 14s go free - check out our We Out Here feature on page 58 for more information!
V Dub at the Pub
The second of our local VW based festivals in this feature, held on the outskirts of Wimborne by the river at Julian’s Bridge. There’s a great variety of entertainment: The Pub, The Tea Rooms, live music, vintage stores, retro cycle ride, street food, a dog show, creative kids activities, and of course, a VW Show and Shine. The music line-up strives to bring something different each year and is being finalised as we go to press, so watch out for details!
BeCider Seaside 21
The team at Bredy Farm have developed a great festival site in the 500 capacity space. Placed in a natural bowl, with great facilities, this is the third event the team will be hosting this summer. Acts confirmed this year include Thumpasaurus, My Baby, Utah Saints, and Nothing Rhymes With Orange. BeCider is also renowned for its great stage setup, including pyrotechnics. You can also access the Bredy Farm facilities including an over-18s swimming pool and the Italian Restaurant.
Dog, Sausage and Cider Festival
At the peak of the festival season in August sits one which combines three of the best things on the planet: dogs, sausages, and cider. Hidden behind The Springhead, a beautiful pub in Sutton Poyntz near Weymouth, you’ll find everything here from The Springhead Dog Show, a live music stage, local and craft stalls, a children’s fun fair, and plenty of ciders and sausages to feast upon. And the word ‘dog’ is in the name for a reason - you’re welcome to bring your own.
End of the Road Festival
Held in the stunning Larmer Tree Gardens, the site is transformed with three great main stages, plus everything from spoken word performances to a postal service (it’s all about the detail). This is a must for lovers of what we might call the BBC6 music playlist: visit here to see your favourite bands and discover several more to fall in love with. The food mall is effectively a food festival in its own right, with a great range of quality food to choose from.
Lyme Folk Weekend
One of the most popular events in the area, this is a town-wide festival with performances across a range of venues in the historic town of Lyme Regis. They have a track record of unearthing some fantastic young, local artists, and this year is set to feature some top order acts in the Marine Theatre, including Turin Brakes (Acoustic), Ninebarrow and The Spooky Men’s Chorale. Keep an eye out for more details!
Swanage Folk Festival
A volunteer-run festival providing a weekend of fun, concerts, music and dance workshops, children’s activities, and ceilidh, all taking place on the Swanage seafront. It not only serves jazz fans from across Dorset, but supports local charities too. Headliners are Kate Griffin and Matchume Zango, Mike McGoldrick, Dezi Donnelly and Tim Edey, and Bonfire Radicals, with The Rigmarollers, The Savage Underdogs, Badgerfox, the Bierfass Oompah Band and many more in support.
Bridport Hat Festival
The all-day HatFest Garden Party will take place at Millennium Green with performances including St Swithin’s Brass Band, young local musicians and performances from the Bridport Broadsides Shanty Group. Food and drinks will be served all day to keep you sustained during the Fun Hat competitions. Judging will take place after the mass hatted photo - other attractions include “Hat Hurling” and a “Hatted Dog Party” in the morning with the “Most Elegant Ensemble” public competition in the afternoon.
Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival
Cheese naturally features heavily in the schedule of this festival, a staple of the Dorset festival calendar since 1999. The Cheese Festival is a must-visit for cheese lovers everywhere with the region’s finest cheese makers present - from Bath Soft Cheese and Glastonbury Dairy to Wookey Farm Cheese and Hampshire Cheese. Add in arts, crafts, children’s entertainment and live music and you can while away hours at this mouthwatering event.
Poole Seafood & Sounds Festival
Held on Poole’s historic quay, this event was saved by a group of intrepid, local business ladies. The Poole Seafood Festival is free to attend and over the course of two days will celebrate the best in local seafood and other produce. The festival will also feature a great line-up of local music on the quay in the day to enjoy while you feast and will then return into many of the vibrant public houses in the evening.
Last of the Summer Cider
Making a welcome return to the Dorset festival diary is Last of the Summer Cider! Set on the fantastic Myncen Farm, home of Cranborne Chase Cider, this festival is the last chance to enjoy great music and finish off the season’s cider - and what better place to do it? This year the festival features The Skimmity Hitchers, Lady Winwoods Maggot, The Zipheads, Monkey Bizzle and Quinn’s Quinney.
Arts By The Sea Festival
The South West’s biggest celebration of art, culture, people and place. This year’s theme, We Are Here, is a bold declaration of belonging and identity, celebrating the vibrant diversity and creativity of the area. The festival will capture the essence of belonging and the vibrant diversity of our local cultures alongside national and regional acts to uplift and inspire whether through dance, theatre, a mass sing-along or parkour. Keep your eyes peeled for details!
GaggleFest
Founded in 2016, Shaftesbury Fringe is an open-access performing arts festival which takes place every summer on the third weekend of July in the beautiful hilltop town of Shaftesbury. It’s a celebration of all things creative, which means anyone with a story to tell can put on an event. It showcases both new and established artists performing and exhibiting in one of over 30 unique venues - from the arts theatre and various pubs to a florist and a bathtub in a shop window!
Poole Harbour Festival
Founded in 2016, Shaftesbury Fringe is an open-access performing arts festival which takes place every summer on the third weekend of July in the beautiful hilltop town of Shaftesbury. It’s a celebration of all things creative, which means anyone with a story to tell can put on an event. It showcases both new and established artists performing and exhibiting in one of over 30 unique venues - from the arts theatre and various pubs to a florist and a bathtub in a shop window!
Bournemouth Reggae Weekender
Founded in 2016, Shaftesbury Fringe is an open-access performing arts festival which takes place every summer on the third weekend of July in the beautiful hilltop town of Shaftesbury. It’s a celebration of all things creative, which means anyone with a story to tell can put on an event. It showcases both new and established artists performing and exhibiting in one of over 30 unique venues - from the arts theatre and various pubs to a florist and a bathtub in a shop window!
Shaftesbury Fringe Festival
Founded in 2016, Shaftesbury Fringe is an open-access performing arts festival which takes place every summer on the third weekend of July in the beautiful hilltop town of Shaftesbury. It’s a celebration of all things creative, which means anyone with a story to tell can put on an event. It showcases both new and established artists performing and exhibiting in one of over 30 unique venues - from the arts theatre and various pubs to a florist and a bathtub in a shop window!
Raising Spirit Festival
Relatively new to the local festival scene in Dorset, Raising Spirit Festival is now in its second year after seeing fantastic success on their debut. They say they’re on a mission to make the coolest, funniest festival possible - sounds pretty good, right? This year, the line up is set to feature bands Toploader, Amy Mayes Band and the Stompin’ Dave Duo among many others. With all the drinks you could want, the vibes are chill, and there’s camping included in the ticket price.
Xchurch Music Festival
A vibrant celebration of nostalgia, marking a significant change in its format by moving the festivities to Poole's High Street for the first time. This year's event will be a retro-lovers paradise, with live entertainment, shopping, and activities all infused with the charm of the 1940s to the 1960s. At the heart of the festival will be a central live stage, hosting performances from various vintage-style solo artists and bands, filling the streets with the sounds of swing, jazz, and rock 'n' roll.
Poole Goes Vintage
A vibrant celebration of nostalgia, marking a significant change in its format by moving the festivities to Poole's High Street for the first time. This year's event will be a retro-lovers paradise, with live entertainment, shopping, and activities all infused with the charm of the 1940s to the 1960s. At the heart of the festival will be a central live stage, hosting performances from various vintage-style solo artists and bands, filling the streets with the sounds of swing, jazz, and rock 'n' roll.
Sandfest
One of the more famous on our list of festivals this season, SandFest is a massive one-day festival party on the beautiful Sandbanks beach with bars, plenty of food stalls and even seating for those chill out times. The main headliner this year is Sonny Fodera with more acts to be announced. SandFest is for over 18s only, and VIP and group packages are available to make your experience extra special as you party in this slice of Ibiza delivered right to our doorstep!
Swanage Jazz Festival
A jam-packed programme with around 40 top quality bands in the main programme, featuring debut performances by legends like Andy Sheppard and Elaine Delmar alongside rising newcomers. There’s a little bit of all things jazz here, from fusion and post-Bop to contemporary held across three main venues - the marquee on Sandpit Field overlooking the beach, plus The Mowlem Theatre and The Mowlem Studio just a five minute walk along the sands.
The Rustic Stomp
A small and lively established DIY festival celebrating roots music that is now part of the global Muddy Roots family. Expect all things fiddle, banjo or double bass driven covering Americana, blues, country, bluegrass and hoedown genres, with a great mix of internationally renowned, national and local bands from Angry Zeta (Argentina) to the Jimmy Hillbillies (Dorset). The Sunday takeover by the Barefoot Kat Klub will add a touch of Speakeasy to the proceedings. Expect cider-fuelled hoedowns, dance-inducing skiffle, side-chuckles and fun times.
Boogie on the Beach
Coinciding with Sandpolo weekend and deemed ‘the UK’s most exclusive beach’, some of the country’s soul, Motown and disco pioneers take to the stage/decks at Boogie on the Beach for an evening of smooth tunes and summer vibes. Headliners are Heatwave, known for their timeless hits like “Boogie Nights”, British 90s Soul/R&B group Damage and the visionary behind Soul II Soul, Jazzie B, with support from some of Bournemouth’s best known club DJs. Think friends, sun and nostalgia!
Dorset Volksfest
Eleven years on from the first Dorset Volkfest in 2013, this event is one of two festivals for VW owners in Dorset (though you certainly don’t need one to go!). With live music, kids’ entertainment, stunt shows, stalls and street food plus plenty of VWs to ogle with the Show and Shine event, there’s lots to see and do. Bands include Lady Winwoods Maggot, Foo Fighterz (Foo Fighters tribute act), Lionstar, Filta, Bradon Block and more. Like any good VW festival, there’s also camping available.
Pier Presents: Two Fat Melons Pub Quiz
Join us and our host Becky Hougham as she brings her hit Two Fat Melons pub quiz to Patch on the first floor of Bobby’s in Bournemouth Town Centre.
Bredy Reunion
Small but mighty and now in its third year, Bredy Reunion, run by Bredy Farm, boasts a fantastic line up of some of the best dance acts and DJs around, including Stanton Warriors, Krafty Kuts and Plump DJs. The beautiful location lends itself well to festival camping, and tickets include overnight tent camping within the festival arena, with more camping available separately across at The Orchard or The Mead. Camping not your thing? Then there’s glamping available! Check out all the details on their website.
Foodie Fest
A small community festival at Muscliff Primary School in Bournemouth. Not only is entry free for everyone this year, but all the kids’ entertainment is free once you get to Foodie Fest. From a bouncy castle and play park to Fun Football Skills and a VR Experience, there will be plenty to keep the kids amused all day. Foodie Fest has focused on finding some of the best food and drink suppliers our region has to offer, from British classics and international street food to sweet treats and local tipples.
Shake’n’Stir Vintage Festival
Another BCP area favourite, Shake & Stir takes over Southbourne with a vibrant celebration of all things vintage, featuring the very best rock’n’roll tunes from the 20s to the 70s. The festival invites people of all ages to immerse themselves in the retro vibes with a full dive into all the vehicles, dancing, fashion and lifestyle of the times. Acts playing include Rockin The Joint, The Satin Dollz and Rip It Up, and there’s an evening party to kick off the festival on 27 June at Ludo Lounge.
Beaminster Festival
The small town of Beaminster is transformed for a week every summer into a vibrant arts festival, featuring music, theatre, literature and more. With the local community at its heart, Beaminster Festival includes a range of internationally acclaimed artists such as the KNDS Fairey Band, Steve Knightley, and Martin James Bartlett, offering something for everyone regardless of taste.
DorsetFest
Another family-friendly favourite, held at Warren Farm atop Bulbarrow Hill in the Dorset Downs, DorsetFest offers a great range of music, entertainment and food stalls and is organised and run entirely by volunteers with all proceeds going to charity. There’s camping available and well-behaved dogs are more than welcome. At the time of going to print, they were still finalising their 2025 line-up, so keep an eye on their social media for updates.
Grooves on the Green
One of a few ‘urban festivals’ taking place in the green spaces Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area. Grooves on the Green is held on Ashley Cross Green, providing unforgettable experiences for the whole family - from toddlers to grandparents. The festival features a host of tribute, covers and local acts such as the Oassis, Rat Race and Kingsmen, plus a variety of entertainment catering to all ages, turning a usually dormant space into a bustling cultural celebration of togetherness complete with plenty of food and drink.
Swanage Fish Festival
Celebrating its tenth year, Swanage Fish Festival is an annual tribute to the town’s long-running heritage of fishing and the sea. This year, they are opening an Artisan Tent, bringing together the best in local crafting, art and food specialist artisans, and gourmet foods. Spotlighting Swanage and Purbeck businesses and skills, there will be entertainment for the whole family with fishy crafts, plus stalls offering a huge variety of fish, cockles, mussels, scallops, and champagne - plus more, if seafood isn’t your thing!
Chesil Rocks
Chesil Rocks has been an annual music and arts festival since 2012, with all proceeds going to Samaritans of Dorset. Welcoming and packed full of talent, their side-splitting Comedy Hour is set to be led by compere Tom Glover, alongside a variety of awesome musical acts including Jess Upton, Robbie McIntosh, Steve Wilson and friends, sensational rock covers band Balance of Power and the fabulous London Gay Men's Chorus.
Harry Paye Pirate Day
Ahoy, me hearties! Get your pirate on at Poole Quay, in a unique celebration of one of Poole’s most interesting historical figures, 15th century pirate Harry Paye. This event is a great excuse to talk and dress as pirates and enjoy the delights of Poole Quay. Organised by the Pirates of Poole, this popular shindig gets underway from noon and runs until around 6pm, starting with a parade of pirates, followed by live music, a best dressed junior pirates competition, pirate games and more.
Bridport Food Festival
Launched in 2004 with the help of Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, this food festival focuses on celebrating and promoting food and drink of the local area, encouraging healthy, local, and sustainable eating practices. The Food Festival serves as the premier event, celebrating Bridport’s local produce, producers, retailers, and hospitality outlets. Get ready for a whole host of local food vendors showcasing what they do best, plus activities to keep the children entertained!
Highcliffe Food & Arts Festival
Celebrating their tenth anniversary this year, this free, two-day event focuses on both local and regional food, drink, and art, celebrating the best of what Dorset has to offer. With live music, entertainment, and plenty of great food, this is a brilliant way to enjoy the local culture. Expect celebrity chefs and cooking demonstrations at the beloved Mary’s Kitchen food theatre, named for their founder, Mary Reader, plus stalls selling products from independent restaurants and producers.
Bridport Beer Festival
Brought to you by the fine folks of Bridport Round Table, organisers say they’ve got ‘all the good stuff’ including ciders, cocktails, wine, and Pimm’s - so it’s not just for beer lovers. Here we have all the elements of a good festival: beer, marquees, live music and good vibes. Held on the picturesque Askers Meadow Nature Reserve in the heart of Bridport, this event brings the community together - and what can go wrong with a selection of over 130 beers and ciders?
Dorset Beer Festival
The Hall & Woodhouse Dorset Beer Festival is run by one of the most popular breweries in Dorset - the producers of Badger Beers - at their brewery in Blandford St Mary. Now in their 12th year, Dorset Beer Festival was originally launched to celebrate the opening of the brewery, and it’s grown ever since. Expect hot food, live music, entertainment, and, naturally, a great line-up of real ales, ciders, and perries.
Upton House Food & Music Festival
Another fantastic festival held at Upton Country Park, Upton House Food and Music Festival is held on the front lawn of the park’s grand, Grade II-listed Georgian house. Expect a gastronomic weekend packed with interactive experiences, food stalls, and live music. Upton Country Park is truly becoming the home of tribute acts in Dorset, so get ready for the likes of Kingz of Leon and Arctic Monkeyz, as well as local musicians Sixteen String Jack, Chris Payn, and many more.
SummerFest
Now in its third year, Summerfest is raising money for Weldmar Hospice care and The Front Skatepark. Last year’s event drew record crowds to Redlands Leisure & Community Park for a packed day of live music, fairground attractions, a football tournament, hot air balloon rides, classic car displays and demonstrations from Weymouth’s Combat Lab. Over the last two years, it has raised over £30,000 for local charities - and this year promises to be the best yet!
Stur Lit Fest
The Sturminster Newton Literary Festival draws on this impressive cultural legacy and celebrates the life and works of three famous local writers - Thomas Hardy, William Barnes and Robert Young. The festival is much more than a journey back to simpler times; it’s also an opportunity to showcase some of the best Dorset and Wessex fiction and non-fiction writers and to encourage the next generation of writers.
Wimborne Folk Festival
This festival combines a vibrant celebration of folk music, traditional dance, and community spirit with an eclectic fringe festival and the Party in the Paddock, a ticketed party all weekend for those of a more non-folk persuasion. The Allendale hosts a music programme - highlights include Eabhal and Murphy’s Lore Trio, Jigfoot hosting a Saturday Evening Ceilidh, and The Salts. Virtually every corner of the town will have entertainment or live music, with each pub running their own schedule featuring many local acts.