Festivals

With a reputation as an eventful destination, we’re very proud of what we’ve got going on in and around Bournemouth.

It’s our festivals that set us apart from other British seaside towns, and it’s what keeps families and enthusiasts coming back to the destination year after year.

Vitality Bournemouth Bay Run

Our major festivals take place throughout the year, kicking off with the Vitality Bournemouth Bay Run in the spring. Offering a variety of distances, whether you’re a competitive athlete or a fun runner, there’s no better place to work up a sweat than beside the seaside along the Bournemouth coastline.

Bournemouth Air Festival

The summer sun brings with it a host of the world’s most impressive planes as the Bournemouth Air Festival swoops into town. With four days of fun on land, at sea, and in the skies, it’s the perfect family festival. The well-loved selection of Britain’s Armed Forces dazzles crowds along our award-winning seafront and, best of all, it’s free! Although there are usually pop concerts and rides that are ticketed, it’s perfectly possible to enjoy the festival without paying a penny.

Arts by the sea Festival

In the autumn, we turn our minds and eyes to culture with Bournemouth’s Arts by the Sea Festival. This multi-disciplinary event showcases a packed programme of art, dance, music, and theatre, stretching across a number of days and into venues at the heart of Bournemouth as well as further out into our coastal villages.

With acts that appeal to all ages, it’s a great way to learn and discover more about art and culture against a breath-taking coastal backdrop.

We will also have great Halloween events from October until the beginning of November!

In November and into the New Year, celebrate Christmas in Bournemouth.

We also host a variety of smaller and specialised festivals throughout the year. From food and drink to jazz, as well as introductions to other countries and cultures, there’s always a reason to celebrate in Bournemouth.

Looking for accommodation in Bournemouth… a perfect place to stay by the sea…

Bournemouth is well known for its great variety of hotels, guest houses, B&Bs and self-catering options situated along our stunning coastline. You’ll find luxury international hotel groups, national chains, beautiful boutique hotels, independent and family-friendly hotels and guest houses, budget-friendly hotels, a great choice of self-catering options, and caravan and camping parks along our neighbouring coastline and countryside.

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