Bournemouth Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Bournemouth and surrounding areas
Bournemouth sparkles for the Christmas season with things to do and festive events along the seafront and town center. Explore Christmas in Bournemouth: Tree Wonderland and enjoy illuminations, ice rinks, and seasonal performances throughout the resort. The town’s holiday attractions include family-friendly activities, pop-up markets, and light displays that create cozy seaside evenings where visitors can shop local stalls, savor seasonal treats, and enjoy live entertainment beneath festive lights.
Find the best Bournemouth Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Lights
22 eventsReimagined interactive lights trail with free entry.
Christmas Markets
20 eventsFestive family fun at historic Osborne estate.
Christmas Shows
15 eventsLive BSO performance of The Nutcracker ballet.
Christmas Parties
7 eventsCozy alpine bar with ice rink views
Other Christmas Activities
36 eventsCanopy-covered ice rink in Guildhall Square
Editor's Picks (6)
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BSO The Nutcracker Magic
(Portsmouth)
Live BSO performance of The Nutcracker ballet.
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Festive Fun at Osborne
(East Cowes)
Festive family fun at historic Osborne estate.
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Christmas in Bournemouth: Tree Wonderland
Reimagined interactive lights trail with free entry.
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Portsmouth On Ice
(Portsmouth)
Canopy-covered ice rink in Guildhall Square
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Santa's Toymaker Workshop at Spinnaker Tower
(Portsmouth)
Build your own cuddly toy with Santa's elves.
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Carols by Candlelight
(Wells)
Candlelit concerts with renowned choir and readings
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Bournemouth Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual events include the Christmas Tree Wonderland in the Lower Gardens, the Alpine Christmas Market, and the open-air ice rink, all running from mid-November to early January. These events draw locals and visitors alike to celebrate the season.
Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland with its illuminated tree trail and festive workshops is a distinctive tradition, alongside the town’s dual ice rinks and the Alpine Market, which together create a unique coastal holiday experience.
The Lower Gardens area is the centerpiece for Christmas lights, while nearby neighborhoods like Westbourne and Southbourne often feature charming neighborhood displays that add to the festive atmosphere.
Bournemouth Square and the Lower Gardens host the main Christmas markets, where local makers and artisans offer crafts, gifts, and seasonal food. These markets are the best places to find unique holiday items near Bournemouth’s town center.
Walking the Christmas Tree Wonderland trail and enjoying the free light displays in the Lower Gardens are great budget-friendly options. Additionally, browsing the open-air markets and attending free festive events around town offer affordable holiday fun.
Families can enjoy the Christmas Tree Wonderland with its festive maze and Santa’s Workshop, the open-air ice rink, and seasonal craft activities. These attractions provide engaging and memorable experiences for children during the holidays.