Page Last Updated: 10th October 2026
Discover Festive Markets, Seasonal Events, Winter Breaks & Local Dining
Get ready to experience the magic of the festive season by the sea. Whether you’re planning a cosy winter weekend, looking for the perfect festive dining spot, or visiting the famous Bournemouth Christmas Market and Festive Trail, your official tourism board has everything you need to plan the perfect winter trip. From the sparkling lights of the town centre to our vibrant coastal villages of Westbourne, Southbourne, and Boscombe, fall in love with a classic Bournemouth Christmas.
(Heading across to Poole during your visit? Check out the official Poole Festive Guide on PooleTourism.com for harbour light trails and festive sailings).
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Eat, Drink & Celebrate
Planning a get-together after exploring the winter light trails? Warm up in style! From luxury hot chocolates to three-course festive menus and spectacular party nights, discover Bournemouth's best independent restaurants, bars, and venues.
Bournemouth's Festive Highlights
(November 2026 – January 2027)
There is something for everyone to enjoy this year across the town. Explore our top picks for festive entertainment, family fun, and live shows. Click on any event below for full dates, times, and booking details.
Outdoor Markets, Light Trails & Ice Skating
The Festive Trail Bournemouth (12 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027): A free, spectacular interactive light display winding through the Lower Gardens to the seafront. Look out for Santa’s Express, the Christmas Tree Maze, and Santa's Workshop!
Bournemouth Christmas Market (12 Nov – 31 Dec 2026): Located in Bournemouth Square, the traditional Alpine Market and Alpine Lodge Bar is the ultimate spot for hand-made gifts and mouth-watering treats.
SKATE Bournemouth & Moguls Bar (12 Nov 2026 – 3 Jan 2027): Glide into the season at the outdoor ice rink in the Lower Gardens, complete with a cosy rink-side bar.
Glow Golf (12 Nov – 24 Dec 2026): Grab a glowing golf ball and tackle illuminated obstacles at this immersive mini-golf attraction in the Lower Gardens.
Indoor Attractions & Theatre
Cool Coast Ice Rink (28 Nov 2026 – 21 Feb 2027): Prefer to stay out of the rain? Visit the largest indoor ice skating rink on the South Coast, located at the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC).
The Bournemouth Pavilion Pantomime: Aladdin (5 Dec 2026 – 3 Jan 2027): Prepare for a magic carpet ride featuring Coronation Street star James Cartwright, Jamie Steen, and Bournemouth favourite Noel Brodie.
Bournemouth Pier Events: Bring the family to Breakfast with Santa (12th–20th Dec) or ring in the new year at the spectacular New Year's Eve with ABBA pier party.
Christmas Events
Looking for local choir concerts, wreath-making workshops, Christmas comedy specials, or New Year's Eve galas? We have you covered. Explore our live, full calendar of festive events below.
(Don't forget to tag us in your festive posts on Instagram @bournemouth_official or Facebook @bournemouthofficial using #LoveBournemouth!)
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Shop Local & Discover Hidden Gems
Explore the Coastal Villages
Away from the main high street, Bournemouth's coastal villages are bursting with unique gift ideas and local festive cheer. Soak up the magical atmosphere of Westbourne, Southbourne, and Boscombe, where you will find vintage treasures, independent boutiques, cosy coffee shops, and fantastic local community events.
Away from the main high street, Bournemouth's coastal villages are bursting with unique gift ideas and local festive cheer. Soak up the magical atmosphere of Westbourne, Southbourne, and Boscombe, where you will find vintage treasures, independent boutiques, cosy coffee shops, and fantastic local community events.
Town Centre Independents & Gifting
If you are staying in the heart of the action, Bournemouth Town Centre is packed with local makers. Head to Bobby's in the Square to discover a huge variety of creative and unusual goodies from independent artisans on the lower ground floor. Looking for an unforgettable present? Treat your loved one to a gift voucher for a local attraction, theatre, restaurant, or a luxurious hotel weekend.
If you are staying in the heart of the action, Bournemouth Town Centre is packed with local makers. Head to Bobby's in the Square to discover a huge variety of creative and unusual goodies from independent artisans on the lower ground floor. Looking for an unforgettable present? Treat your loved one to a gift voucher for a local attraction, theatre, restaurant, or a luxurious hotel weekend.
Getting Here & Planning Your Trip
