October brings a varied programme of events to Bournemouth, from an immersive pop-up planetarium and a major film festival to live theatre, family entertainment and the final days of a magical exhibition. Whether you are planning an autumn weekend, searching for October half-term activities or looking for something different to experience locally, these are seven of the best things happening in Bournemouth during October 2026.
22nd September 2026
Autumn may have arrived, but Bournemouth’s calendar is showing no signs of slowing down.
October 2026 brings experiences for families, theatre lovers, aspiring writers, film enthusiasts and anyone looking for something a little different.
Here are seven brilliant things to see, do and enjoy in Bournemouth this October.
Dates: Until Sunday 4 October 2026
Location: Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
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October begins with a final opportunity to experience Flower Fairies: Enchantment by the Sea at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum.
The exhibition celebrates the illustrations of Cicely Mary Barker, bringing together original artwork, preparatory drawings, personal sketchbooks and landscapes inspired by Dorset. Barker’s fairies were modelled on real children and carefully placed among botanically accurate flowers and plants.
There is also a local connection running through the exhibition, with work influenced by visits to Swanage, Highcliffe and Hengistbury Head. It is a charming choice for families, art lovers and anyone who grew up with the Flower Fairies books - but visitors only have the first few days of October to see it.
Dates: Friday 2-Sunday 25 October 2026
Location: The Square, Bournemouth town centre
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A pop-up planetarium is landing in Bournemouth Square for much of October, offering an immersive journey through space without leaving the town centre.
Inside the large spherical dome, audiences are surrounded by a 360-degree screen showing astronomy and science films. The programme ranges from accessible animated adventures for younger children to explorations of the Solar System, astronomy and the journeys of the Voyager spacecraft.
Films generally last between 25 and 35 minutes, making this an easy addition to a day in central Bournemouth. Its three-week run also provides families with considerably more flexibility than a single performance.
Date: Saturday 3 October 2026
Location: Marsham Court Hotel
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Bournemouth’s Romance Writing Festival returns with a full day dedicated to storytelling, publishing and the craft of writing.
The programme includes talks, panel discussions, masterclasses and one-to-one sessions with literary agents. Bestselling authors, award-winning writers and publishing professionals will share practical advice for everyone from complete beginners to writers preparing to submit their work.
Although it takes place on one day, this is a proper festival programme rather than a single author appearance. Events continue from morning into the evening at the Marsham Court Hotel, making it one of October’s strongest choices for local writers and book lovers.
Dates: Friday 9-Saturday 10 October 2026
Location: Hilton Bournemouth
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The Bournemouth International Film Festival returns for two days of screenings, industry discussions and creative events.
The festival showcases emerging filmmakers through a curated selection of shorts and feature films from the UK and overseas. Visitors can also attend talks, workshops and panel discussions, with opportunities for filmmakers, producers and other creatives to meet and exchange ideas.
The 2026 theme is Social Realism: Real Stories. Real Cinema, placing the focus on stories of community, work, identity and belonging. The festival concludes with a black-tie awards evening celebrating work across several categories.
It offers something different from an ordinary cinema visit and supports the next generation of filmmaking talent.
Dates: Wednesday 14–Saturday 17 October 2026
Location: Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre
Tickets: From £29
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Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 The Musical arrives at Bournemouth Pavilion for a four-day run in the middle of October.
Presented by Bournemouth and Boscombe Light Opera Company, the musical follows Violet, Judy and Doralee as they join forces against their overbearing boss and attempt to transform their working lives.
The production combines comedy, lively choreography and a Dolly Parton score that includes the unmistakable title song. Behind the feel-good energy is a story about friendship, workplace equality and finding the confidence to stand up for yourself.
With several performances across four days, this is October’s main musical-theatre run in Bournemouth.
Date: Thursday 29 October 2026
Time: 6.30pm
Location: O2 Academy Bournemouth
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O2 Academy Bournemouth swaps live bands for live wrestling as GrandSlam Wrestling comes to Boscombe during the October half-term period.
The event promises an evening of theatrical entrances, dramatic rivalries and fast-paced action inside one of Bournemouth’s most recognisable entertainment venues. It is a particularly useful addition to the October calendar for families looking beyond the usual pumpkin trails and Halloween activities.
Images: Unsplash
Date: Friday 30 October 2026
Time: 2pm
Location: Windsor Hall, Bournemouth International Centre
Tickets: From £25.50
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October ends with a major half-term wildlife adventure at the Bournemouth International Centre.
Hosted by award-winning presenter Steve Backshall, Deadly Live! is based on the popular CBBC series and combines wildlife, science, daring stunts and live experiments. The show explores some of the world’s most formidable predators, with everything from big cats and birds of prey to snakes and dinosaurs forming part of the experience.
It is designed for adventurers of different ages and offers considerably more than a conventional stage talk. With its afternoon start and half-term timing, it is likely to be one of Bournemouth’s biggest family events of the month.
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