Festive Events in Dorset
The festive season is upon us, and I don’t know about you, but this year has gone far too quickly! So if you’re not quite feeling festive just yet, here’s a round up of festive events in Dorset to get you into the Christmas spirit!
1. Christmas Tree Wonderland
Back after a year’s break, and complete with the ice rink and a 60ft Christmas tree centrepiece, how could we not mention Christmas Tree Wonderland, based in the heart of Bournemouth? With trees from across the world, and events taking place all over the festive period, there’s something for everyone here (except for maybe scrooge!) Check out this link for more information: https://christmastreewonderland.co.uk/wonderland-experience/
2. Bournemouth Christmas Market & Alpine Bar
We sure did miss this last year, back by popular demand and thanks to Seventa Events, the famous Christmas Market has returned! With stalls galore selling items from handmade gifts to luxury hot chocolate, it’s the perfect place to meet, eat, drink and be merry. There are even fully covered AND HEATED snow domes. What more could you want while sipping on a delicious cup of mulled cider, or wine? I know – Christmas karaoke, quiz nights and live music! Find out more about what they have to offer and when here: https://www.christmasinbournemouth.co.uk/the-alpine-bar-bournemouth
3. Christmas at Kingston Lacey
This might be one I’ll be checking out soon – Kingston Lacey are putting on a show here with gorgeous twinkling lights and festive music. They write “Discover sparkling tunnels of light, walk under giant baubles and beneath the trees drenched in jewel-like colour. For a moment of reflection pause at mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, gaze at the specially chosen illuminations and don’t forget to glimpse Father Christmas along the way.” Sounds heavenly to me! Oh and if you get thirsty, they do some wonderful hot chocolate. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kingston-lacy/features/christmas-at-kingston-lacy-2021
4. Steam And Lights At Swanage Steam Railway
An old fashioned steam train covered in lights sounds the perfect way to take a trip round Corfe Castle while watching lighting displays. Each station and points along the line will have beautiful light displays synchronised to the festive music you’ll be humming along. Make sure you book though, I think this one will be selling out fast! https://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/events/
5. Durlston Country Park
Durlston have a jam packed calendar this December so check it out here: https://www.durlston.co.uk/events.aspx
They have several festive events to get you in the Christmas spirit including hunting for Rudolf, a family fun run and an interactive acoustic live score of The Snowman by The Cabinet of Living Cinema. Warm up those singing voices as you will be encouraged to sing, and experiment with sound effects!
6. Beaulieu’s Christmas Canoe Paddle
Wrap up warm and settle into a Canadian style canoe for a 90 minute paddle and tour of the river, with the added bonus of meeting Santa – and it’s bonus? All children will receive a gift! Beaulieu is a beautiful part of our Hampshire world, and what better way to explore by doing something a little different this December? Don’t worry, they’re very stable and there is hot chocolate on hand to warm you up. https://www.visit-hampshire.co.uk/whats-on/christmas-canoe-paddle-at-new-forest-activities-p1489541
7. Swing Unlimited at Highcliffe Castle
Looking for festive events in Dorset that are more music based? For all the music fans out there, let me introduce to you, Swing Unlimited Big Band! From the 15th to the 17th December, Swing Unlimited will be playing at Highcliffe Castle. Check out their website to see other upcoming concerts and locations: https://swing.subb.co.uk/index.php/events/bandsintown/Photo credit:
Bournemouth Christmas Market
National Trust
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Virtual Christmas Party Ideas
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