Southbourne Pumpkin Fest

Southbourne is getting a spooky makeover this October as the Southbourne Pumpkin Fest returns for another year, this time even bigger with mini road closures, running off the high street of Southbourne. Get ready for a day of frightful fun, family activities and surprises!

On Friday 31st October, our high street will be transformed into a hub of pumpkin trails, live entertainment, markets, and kids’ activities, all designed to bring the community together in the true Southbourne spirit. Whether you’re joining with family, friends, or flying solo for a night out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out the local night-traders to see what’s happening after hours.

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What’s On:

• Bar & music for kids and adults!
• Our 3rd annual Pumpkin Carving Contest, bringing the most creative designs yet!
• Kick a football at a ghoul (yes, really)
• Spooky kids’ challenges for BIG prizes
• Apple bobbing
• Local food & drinks
• Craft fair from Forage and Found in collaboration with The Way Outback
• Spooky story telling
• Meeting the Bournemouth Goats
  And more....

Fancy dress encouraged!

We’re closing the roads and turning Southbourne Grove into a full-on Halloween takeover

🎃 The Famous Pumpkin Trail Returns

It wouldn’t be Halloween in Southbourne without our legendary Pumpkin Carving Competition and Trail!

Head to Southbourne Green from 11am to collect your voting tokens from the Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary Club and Bournemouth Coastal BID stands, and don’t forget to say hello to the Bournemouth Goats while you’re there!

Don’t miss out on the ghost penalty shootouts, where Aspire Life Sports will be handing out treats for the most goals!

Then, follow the Traders Pumpkin Trail down the high street, from SOBO Sommelier at the top all the way past Little Perth, admiring the spooky, creative, and downright creepy pumpkin displays in shop windows.

We’d love you to cast your vote by dropping your off your token at your favourite design, and one lucky trader will be crowned Pumpkin Champion 2025, complete with bragging rights and a cash prize. Last year’s winners, Mark Meat’s Butchers, will be defending their title… can anyone top them this year?

👻 Fun for All Ages

Families are in for a treat with a full afternoon of activities across the high street.

• Wentworth Avenue becomes The Kids’ Hub, packed with magic shows, apple bobbing, storytelling, and science fun led by Creative Kids, Aspire Life Sports, and community favourite music.
• On Southbourne Green, expect Pumpkin HQ with face painting, crafts, music, the bournemouth Goats and games for little ones.
• Hosker Road, Chestnut Avenue, and Grand Avenue will come alive with craft markets, live music, and DJs, the perfect way to soak up the Halloween atmosphere.

🌙 As Night Falls...

When the sun sets, Southbourne’s venues will keep the Halloween spirit alive well into the evening. From spooky-themed cocktails and creepy cakes to Halloween supper clubs and live performances, there’s plenty happening across the neighbourhood.

Make a night of it by exploring your favourite local spots, each adding their own twist to the festivities.

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The Southbourne Pumpkin Fest is powered by Bournemouth Coastal BID, in partnership with local legends including the Southbourne & Boscombe Rotary Club, Aspire Life Sports, Creative Kids, Immense Events, and Visit Southbourne.

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