Events Guide | What’s On in Bournemouth

October at Bournemouth Pavilion is packed with live entertainment for everyone, from major concerts and comedy to theatre, tribute shows and family favourites, making it one of the busiest months of the year.

Join the Romance Writing Festival 2026 in Bournemouth for a day of inspiring talks, writing workshops, expert masterclasses and networking with bestselling romance authors, literary agents and publishing professionals. Taking place at the Marsham Court Hotel on 3 October 2026, this unique Dorset literary event is ideal for aspiring and established romance writers looking to improve their craft, connect with the writing community and take the next step towards publication.

Take on one of Dorset's most popular running weekends at Run Bournemouth 2026. Held on 10 and 11 October, the festival features the Bournemouth Half Marathon, Supersonic 10K, Supernova 5K and junior races along Bournemouth's stunning coastline. With spectacular sea views, a lively event atmosphere and distances for all abilities, Run Bournemouth is a highlight of the Dorset sporting calendar and attracts thousands of runners and supporters each year.

November at Bournemouth Pavilion is packed with standout live entertainment, featuring major concerts, classic tribute shows, comedy favourites and spectacular theatre as the year builds towards winter.

Discover The Alpine Lodge in Bournemouth, a cosy festive bar at the heart of the Christmas Market in The Square. Enjoy mulled wine, winter cocktails, live music, quiz nights, and seasonal entertainment in a charming alpine-inspired lodge. Open daily from 11am to 11pm throughout the Christmas season — the perfect spot for festive drinks, group gatherings, and Christmas cheer.

Experience Skate Bournemouth this winter at the Lower Gardens. Enjoy festive fun, music, and ice skating under the lights — perfect for families, friends, and holiday outings.

Skate this winter at Cool Coast Ice Rink in Bournemouth. Enjoy indoor ice skating, family fun, and festive vibes at the BIC’s Purbeck Hall.

Celebrate the beginning of 2027 with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s New Year’s Day Viennese Gala at Lighthouse, Poole. Taking place on Friday 1 January, this uplifting afternoon concert features sweeping Strauss waltzes, lively polkas, orchestral favourites and vocal performances from soprano Claudia Boyle. Expect famous pieces including The Blue Danube, Emperor Waltz and Offenbach’s Can-Can during an elegant musical celebration inspired by Vienna’s traditional New Year concerts.

Looking for things to do in Bournemouth this February? Discover the best family activities, live shows, concerts, half-term fun, indoor attractions and winter experiences happening across Bournemouth this month.

Take on one of the South Coast’s most scenic running events when the Bournemouth Bay Run returns in 2027. Starting near Pier Approach, the annual event is expected to offer a Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and 1K Kids Fun Run along Bournemouth’s famous seafront. The official 2027 date, entry fees and race schedule have not yet been announced. Find the latest event information and what runners can expect from the next Bournemouth Bay Run.

The Bournemouth Writing Festival 2027 is set to return to Bournemouth from 23-25 April 2027, bringing together writers, authors and publishing professionals for a weekend of talks, workshops and networking events. While the full programme is still to be announced, visitors can expect over 100 free and ticketed activities across Bournemouth town centre. This page will be updated as soon as organisers release further details.

Experience the Bournemouth Reggae Weekender 2027 at King's Park. One of Dorset's biggest summer music festivals, the event features live reggae, ska and dancehall performances, Caribbean food, family entertainment and a vibrant festival atmosphere. Find event dates, ticket information, opening times, venue details and everything you need to plan your visit to this popular Bournemouth festival.