Christmas in Bournemouth 2026 begins on 12 November, with the return of the Festive Trail, Christmas Market and SKATE Bournemouth in the Lower Gardens. Families can also look forward to a Christmas Tree Maze, Santa’s Express, Story Time with Santa, festive mini golf and the Big Wheel, with celebrations continuing into January 2027.
6th October 2026
Christmas plans are taking shape in Bournemouth, with a revamped Festive Trail, the return of the Christmas Market and ice skating in the Lower Gardens.
Christmas in Bournemouth will open on Thursday 12 November 2026, with the festive celebrations continuing until Sunday 3 January 2027. The Christmas Market stalls will close slightly earlier, on 31 December 2026.
For anyone who makes an evening beneath the lights part of their Christmas traditions, the Lower Gardens will once again be at the heart of the celebrations.
The returning Festive Trail promises illuminated displays, animated installations and photo opportunities, alongside a walkway lined with real Christmas trees.
Entry to the trail will be free, with tickets required for selected attractions and experiences.
Families will have plenty to explore along the way.
The announced attractions include a Christmas Tree Maze featuring 300 illuminated trees, Santa’s Express train and Santa’s Workshop, where visitors can book Story Time with Santa.
Festive mini golf and the Big Wheel are also listed, adding opportunities to turn a wander through the gardens into a longer afternoon or evening out.
In the town centre, the organisers are promising their largest Christmas Market yet.
Traditional chalets will bring together gifts, festive food and seasonal treats, while the Alpine Lodge will provide a place to meet friends and stop for a winter drink.
The Christmas Market will run as part of the wider festive programme, with stalls closing on31 December 2026.
SKATE Bournemouth will also return to the Lower Gardens, bringing ice skating into the mix for those planning a family outing or a festive date night.
Selected experiences, including skating and Glow Golf, can be booked ahead through the organisers’ website.
Whether you’re heading in for Christmas shopping, taking the children to explore the trail or meeting friends after work, there’s now a date to put in the diary: Bournemouth’s festive season begins on 12 November 2026.
The wider Christmas programme will continue until 3 January 2027, giving visitors several weeks to experience the lights, attractions, market and seasonal activities.
Too view more Christmas activities in Bournemouth, click HERE
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