Last updated: November 11, 2024
Feel the holiday buzz in Weymouth! Discover all the festive events and activities with our guide. Whether you're intimately familiar with Weymouth or just getting acquainted, this guide ensures unforgettable holidays.
Popular events include the Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland, where enchanting lights and beautifully adorned trees create a magical atmosphere throughout the town. Unique to the holiday season, Christmas at the Russell-Cotes offers visitors a chance to explore twinkling displays in the stunning Victorian gallery. And the Weymouth Christmas Lights Switch On is something you definitely don't want to miss, as it marks the start of festive celebrations with a spectacular light display. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Interactive light installations and international Christmas tree replicas.
Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland features hundreds of glittering trees, an Alpine Market, and enchanting illuminations in the Lower Gardens. Enjoy live music, entertainment, and festive fare in a bustling atmosphere.
Where: Bournemouth | More Info: Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland
Largest Elf Parade in Dorset with synchronized elf performances and community activities.
Weymouth's Christmas Lights Switch On features an Elf Parade, elf-themed festivities, hat-making, gingerbread decorating, and entertainment by local groups and bands, culminating in the official lighting of the town's Christmas lights at New Bond Street.
Where: Weymouth | More Info: Weymouth Christmas Lights Switch On
30-minute boat trip with festive lights and hot chocolate.
Embark on a 30-minute boat trip around Poole Harbour, taking in the stunning Christmas lights display while enjoying hot chocolate.
Where: Poole | More Info: Poole Christmas Lights Cruise
Illuminated displays celebrating the maritime history of Poole along the scenic harbour.
The Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival showcases a stunning display of illuminations along the picturesque waterfront. Visitors can stroll through the festival to admire the vibrant light installations while enjoying seasonal treats from local vendors. The event highlights the charm of the maritime heritage, blending the artistry of light with the beauty of the surroundings.
Where: Poole | More Info: Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival
Unique blend of local crafts, food, and music in a historic setting.
The Dorchester Abbey Christmas Market offers over 40 stalls filled with gifts, Christmas food, and wreaths, surrounded by the festive smells of Bratwurst and mulled wine. Local choirs and musicians provide Christmas music, and the Tea Room stall is packed with homemade Christmas cakes.
Where: Dorchester | More Info: Dorchester Christmas Market
Tudor architecture and historical significance
Explore Athelhampton House & Gardens during the Christmas season, featuring a Tudor Great Hall with original hammer-beam roof, stained glass, and carved stonework. Enjoy guided tours and learn about Thomas Hardy's connections to the house.
Where: Puddletown | More Info: Athelhampton House & Gardens Christmas Market
Classic fairytale with spectacular special effects and laughter.
Sleeping Beauty, a classic fairytale, comes to life with spectacular special effects and laughter as Princess Rose navigates her curse and true love's rescue. Directed by Chris Jarvis, this production features a talented cast including Todd Carty as King Tucker.
Where: Poole | More Info: Sleeping Beauty Pantomime at The Lighthouse Theatre
Star-studded cast with flying sequences and fantastical characters.
Join Peter Pan and his adventures in Neverland with Wendy, Tinker Bell, and Captain Hook. Starring Jamie Riding as Panto Dame Mrs Smee and Britain's Got Talent star Tony Rudd as Smee, this family pantomime features a star cast, impressive music, and plenty of laughter.
Where: Weymouth | More Info: Peter Pan Pantomime
Largest Elf Parade in Dorset with marching band and Santa.
Weymouth Elf Parade features elf-themed festivities including hat-making, gingerbread decorating, and a large parade. The event includes entertainment on the main stage with performances by the Panto cast, local schools, and the Leggomen. It is a perfect family day out with street performers and stilt walkers.
Where: Weymouth | More Info: Weymouth Elf Parade
Santa arrives in an armoured vehicle.
At Santa's Grotto at the Tank Museum, children can meet Santa as he arrives in an armoured vehicle, explore the festive "Frank on a Tank" elf trail, and enjoy live entertainment and delicious food.
Where: Bovington | More Info: Santa's Grotto at the Tank Museum
Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke performs with his live band and dancers.
Join Anton Du Beke for a captivating evening of music and dance as he performs his most cherished Christmas songs and captivating dances with his dynamic live band and troupe of extraordinary dancers.
Where: Poole | More Info: Christmas with Anton Du Beke at Lighthouse
Victorian-themed activities and unique gifts.
Step back in time to a traditional Victorian Christmas at the Russell-Cotes, where you can explore authentic traditions, participate in craft activities, and enjoy festive carols. Meet the Victorians, stir figgy pudding, and make a wish on the Wishing Tree. The event also features a Christmas Trail and a range of unique gifts available for purchase.
Where: Bournemouth | More Info: Christmas at the Russell-Cotes
Steampunk-themed holiday celebration with family-friendly activities.
Weymouth Steampunk Christmas Weekend offers a unique take on traditional Christmas celebrations with steampunk-themed events and activities for all the family.
Where: Weymouth | More Info: Weymouth Steampunk Christmas
Meet Father Christmas in a festive garden setting.
Meet Father Christmas in his cosy cabin at Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens. This special event includes entry for the child and one accompanying adult, with additional adults needing a Winter Offer Ticket. After meeting Santa, explore the beautiful gardens on a winter stroll.
Where: Abbotsbury | More Info: Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens Santa's Grotto
Real ice rink with festive drinks and alpine bar.
SKATE Bournemouth offers a real ice rink and Moguls Alpine Bar in Bournemouth's Lower Gardens, perfect for all ages and skating levels. The rink is set amidst the canopies of Lower Gardens, bringing festive euphoria to the Christmas season.
Where: Bournemouth | More Info: Skate Bournemouth
Cozy alpine bar with festive drinks and VIP seating.
Relax at Moguls Alpine Bar, where you can unwind with aromatic mulled wine and steamy hot chocolate while overlooking the ice rink. Enjoy fully festive decor, luxury hot chocolates, refreshing beers, and delicious mulled wine in a cozy, alpine-style setting with VIP booths and social seating.
Where: Bournemouth | More Info: Moguls Alpine Bar
Interactive Christmas experience with a gift for each child.
Meet Farmer Christmas at Farmer Palmer's Farm Park, where children can enjoy a farm-tastic time meeting 'the man in red' and his festive friends in the Magical Christmas Barn. Every child with a 'Farmer Christmas Experience Ticket' receives a great gift from the Elves at Ye Olde Toy Shoppe.
Where: Poole | More Info: Father Christmas at Farmer Palmers