Need ideas for things to do with the family in August? You'll find lots of fun events and shows listed below.
SEA LIFE PIRATE TREASURE HUNT
Dates: Saturday 24th May – Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: SEA LIFE, Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 7SX
Website: SEA LIFE Weymouth
ABBOTSBURY SWANNERY BRAMLEY HEDGE TRAIL
Info: Based on the Summer Story book, the trail includes fun facts, stamp points and an activity booklet. The trail runs alongside the daily mass swan feeds, willow swan maze and pedal go-karts.
Dates: Ongoing
Address: Abbotsbury Swannery, New Barn Road, Abbotsbury, Dorset, DT3 4JG
Website: Abbotsbury Swannery
MONKEY WORLD SUMMER FUN
Dates: Tuesday 1st July – Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Monkey World, Tout Hill, Longthorns, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 6HH
Website: Monkey World
THE WALLED GARDEN DINOSAURS IN SPACE TRAIL
Dates: From Wednesday 16th July 2025
Address: The Walled Garden, Station Road, Moreton, Dorset, DT2 8RH
Website: The Walled Garden
KINGSTON MAURWARD ANIMAL PARK & GARDENS TREASURE TRAIL
Dates: Friday 18th July - Friday 8th August 2025
Address: Kingston Maurward, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8PX
Website: Kingston Maurward Gardens & Animal Park
AVON HEATH COUNTRY PARK CREATIVE CREATURES TRAIL
Info: Avon Heath is home to some amazingly creative creatures. Match the clues to the creatures in the activity sheet and count the ants along the way. Pick up your trail pack from the Visitor Centre every day. Trail cost applies and includes a prize. In addition to the trail, there is also archery sessions, meet the raptors, bat walks, workshops and Mad 4 Animal shows all on selected dates.
Dates: From Friday 18th July 2025
Address: Avon Heath Country Park
Website: Avon Heath Country Park
SYMONDSBURY ESTATE WILD DAYS!
Info: Through the summer holidays, Symondsbury Estate are inviting families to dive into the joy of Wild Days – a brilliant summer programme packed with FREE outdoor fun, magical adventures, woodland games and more.
Dates: Friday 18th July - Saturday 30th August 2025
Address: Symondsbury Estate, Manor Yard, Mill Lane, Symondsbury, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 6HG
Website: Symondsbury Estate
STOUR VALLEY NATURE RESERVE SUMMER ACTIVITIES
Info: The reserve has a two mile stretch of riverside footpath, meadows, hedgerows and woodland. During the holidays there are multiple nature themed workshops which include butterfly and moth art, wildflower painting and mini beast art.
Dates: Saturday 19th July - Saturday 30th August 2025
Address: Stour Valley Nature Reserve, 43 Granby Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH9 3NZ
Website: Stour Valley Nature Reserve
CHARMOUTH HERITAGE COAST CENTRE FOSSIL HUNTING & MORE
Info: Join a guided Fossil Walk with the wardens to find and take home your very own Jurassic fossil or attend a Seashore Safari and Scavenger Hunt to explore the fascinating creatures of the seashore and how they live, eat and adapt to their environment! Costs apply and booking is essential.
Dates: Various dates
Address: Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, Lower Sea Lane, Charmouth, Dorset, DT6 6LL
Website: Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre
MINTERNE GARDENS DRAGON & FAIRY TRAIL
Info: Lose yourself in the land of make-believe. The beautiful fairy trail will transport you to a place of mystery and enchantment. The hand crafted willow sculptures and displays lead you through the beautiful gardens and on into the secret woodland.
Dates: Saturday 19th July - Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Minterne Gardens, Minterne Magna, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 7AU
Website: Minterne
STUDLAND SUMMER OF PLAY
Info: Have fun exploring the beach and dunes and children can also enjoy free to use sports equipment and games at Shell Bay.
Dates: Mondays during the school summer holidays
Address: Shell Bay, Studland, Dorset
Website: National Trust Studland Bay
MEGA SLIP AND SLIDE
Info: The Slip and Slide is back with an even bigger slide and bigger pool to whoosh into!
Dates: Saturday 19th July – Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Mill Street, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 3RH
Website: Mega Slip and Slide
RUSSELL-COTES MUSEUM AMAZING ANIMALS & BRILLIANT BOTANICALS
Info: Follow the nature themed trail around the house and take part in the garden scavenger hunt. Families can also enjoy some traditional garden games, workshops and more.
Dates: Sunday 19th July - Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Russell-Cotes Museum, East West Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 3AA
Website: Russell-Cotes
CORFE CASTLE SUMMER OF PLAY
Info: Hop into a summer of fun at Corfe Castle and discover a variety of games and activities throughout the ruins. Explore play zones to get legs and minds racing, see if you can hit the bullseye in the Archery Zone, beat the Obstacle Zone or make some noise in the Music Zone.
Dates: Saturday 19th July - Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Corfe Castle, The Square, Corfe Castle, Dorset
Website: National Trust Corfe Castle
TANK MUSEUM SEASON OF STEM
Info: Get involved with hands-on games and interactives, watch live tanks in action and experience a tracked vehicle ride. Plus, explore the tank-themed outdoor playpark or soft play for mini-tank enthusiasts.
Dates: Saturday 19th July - Tuesday 2nd September 2025
Address: Tank Museum, Linsay Road, Bovington, Dorset, BH20 6JG
Website: Tank Museum
DURLSTON COUNTRY PARK ACTIVITY TRAILS & MORE
Info: The Marvelous Meadows Trail runs through the first half of the summer holidays and then the Boats of the Bay Trail runs until the end. Plus there’s guided walks, scavenger hunts, nature activities and Wild Wednesdays all planned on selected dates.
Dates: Saturday 19th July - Wednesday 3rd September 2025
Address: Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL
Website: Durlston Country Park
KINGSTON LACY SUMMER OF PLAY
Info: There's so much to try out this summer - start your engines in the wacky races, build something amazing with the giant blue blocks, try out the ball play and slacklining zone and much, much more.
Dates: Saturday 19th July - Sunday 7th September 2025
Address: Kingston Lacy, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 4EA
Website: Kingston Lacy
MOORS VALLEY COUNTRY PARK STICK MAN TRAIL & MORE
Info: Moors Valley is an award-winning visitor attraction offering a host of outdoor activities for all ages with long paths to explore in the woods, multiple fun play areas, the Moors Valley Railway and much more. Activities in the holidays include pond dipping, fishing, mini golf, adventure valley land rovers and the Stick Man Trail.
Dates: Saturday 19th July - Sunday 7th September 2025
Address: Moors Valley Country Park, Horton Road, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
Website: Moors Valley Country Park
THORNCOMBE WOODS WILD WORKOUT TRAIL
Info: Enjoy a FREE nature inspired Physical Activity Trail. Keep everyone moving and exploring this summer holiday with a family friendly trail around the reserve! Follow the pink and blue waymarked trails to discover beautifully hand-painted discs. Each disc reveals a nature-inspired movement challenge to try. Trail leaflets can be found in car park or at the Visitors Centre.
Dates: Saturday 19th July - Monday 8th September 2025
Address: Thorncombe Woods, Higher Bockhampton, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QH
Facebook: Hardys Birthplace
HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE SUMMER WELLBEING CHALLENGE
Info: Explore the grounds of Highcliffe Castle for an outdoor challenge trail promoting positive wellbeing and appreciating you. Indoor crafts will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays and there will be a different craft each week to do.
Dates: Sunday 20th July - Sunday 7th September 2025
Address: Highcliffe Castle, Rothesay Drive, Highcliffe, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 4LE
Website: Highcliffe Castle
REDHILL PARK CAFÉ KIDS ACTIVITIES
Dates: Various dates
Address: Redhill Park Café, Redhill Avenue, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH9 2SW
Website: Redhill Park Café
RED HOUSE MUSEUM SUMMER ACTIVITIES
Dates: Various dates
Address: Red House Museum, Quay Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1BU
Website: Red House Museum
UPTON COUNTRY PARK SUMMER READING CHALLENGE & MORE
Info: Explore 160 acres of gardens, woodland and parkland at Upton Country Park. The Summer Reading Challenge is a free activity for children to discover the Poet-tree, get crafty, read a book in the Story Corner and follow the story trails. On selected dates there will also be face painting and Get Up and Bounce will be in the Walled Garden with inflatables.
Dates: Monday 21st July - Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BJ
Website: Upton Country Park
MUSEUM OF EAST DORSET MINECRAFT ADVENTURES
Info: From character hunts to crafty clay creations, families can dive into a pixel-powered holiday filled with creativity and exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone in this immersive experience.
Dates: Monday 21st July - Saturday 6th September 2025
Address: Museum of East Dorset, 23-29 High Street, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1HR
Website: Museum of East Dorset
CHRISTCHURCH FUN FAIR
Dates: Thursday 24th July - Sunday 10th August 2025
Address: Christchurch Park, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1PA
Facebook: B Cole & Sons
FARMER PALMERS FARM PARK SUMMER FUN
Dates: Thursday 24th July - Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Farmer Palmers, Wareham Road, Organford, Poole, Dorset, BH16 6EU
Website: Farmer Palmers
THE VERWOOD HUB SUMMER ACTIVITIES
Info: Let the children run wild on the bouncy castle and soft play sessions plus there’s a summer special kids disco, cinema showings, workshops and more.
Dates: Various dates
Address: Verwood Hub, Brockway, Verwood, Dorset, BH31 7QE
Website: Verwood Hub
BROWNSEA ISLAND SUMMER OF PLAY
Info: Embark on a crayon rubbing trail filled with fun activities and games for the whole family. Play like a chicken, leap like a sika deer, and try some bunny yoga. As you explore, you'll uncover fascinating facts about the creatures that call Brownsea home.
Dates: Thursday 24th July - Sunday 31st August 2025
Location: Poole Harbour
Website: National Trust Brownsea Island
MADJESTON ANIMAL FARM ACTIVITIES
Info: There are new attractions each week which include straw bales to climb, jump, hide and play on, pedal tractors, space hoppers, sand, water, disco and bubbles to name a few. Plus there’s animal activity sessions, café and play area.
Dates: Thursday 24th July - Wednesday 3rd September 2025
Address: Madjeston Animal Farm, Cole Street Lane, Madjeston, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 5JQ
Website: Madjeston Animal Farm
CIRCUS EXTREME
Info: Get ready for the ultimate fusion of live rock music and world-class circus stunts! Circus Extreme returns in 2025 with its most electrifying production yet - ROCK IT OUT! Years in the making, this revolutionary show redefines live entertainment, pushing the boundaries of thrill and spectacle like never before.
Dates: Friday 25th July - Sunday 3rd August 2025
Address: Branksome Recreation Ground, Recreation Road, Branksome, Poole, Dorset, BH12 2AL
Website: Circus Extreme
LYME REGIS LIFEBOAT WEEK
Info: This year’s week includes all the old favourites including the duck race, the swimming challenges, the bathtub race, Teddy bears’ picnic, Morris dancing, vintage air display, meet the crew and demonstrations.
Dates: Saturday 26th July - Friday 1st August 2025
Location: Across Lyme Regis
Facebook: Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week
SWANAGE CARNIVAL
Info: Swanage Carnival is run by volunteers and is an annual eight day event held in the picturesque coastal town of Swanage. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse entertainment, and community spirit, the carnival attracts visitors from near and far, offering something for everyone to enjoy and supported by voluntary contributions.
Dates: Saturday 26th July - Saturday 2nd August 2025
Location: Across Swanage
Website: Swanage Carnival
SHERBORNE CASTLE NATURE TRAIL
Info: Follow the trail around the garden discovering interesting facts about the nature within the gardens. Complete the answers to the questions and collect your prize from the ticket box at the end of the trail.
Dates: Saturday 26th July - Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Sherborne Castle, New Road, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5NR
Website: Sherborne Castle
MAPPERTON SUMMER WILDLINGS
Info: This summer, Mapperton is inviting families to explore, discover and get creative with six weeks of themed activities across the gardens, Wildlands and play areas. From forest trails and storytelling to sketching wildlife, scavenger hunts and postcards from the past - there’s something new to enjoy every week.
Dates: Sunday 27th July - Thursday 4th September 2025
Address: Mapperton, Beaminster, Dorset, DT8 3NR
Website: Mapperton
BLANDFORD MUSEUM FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY
Dates: Thursday 31st July - Saturday 2nd August 2025
Address: Blandford Town Museum, Beres Yard, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7HQ
Website: Blandford Town Museum
CAMP BESTIVAL
Dates: Thursday 31st July - Sunday 3rd August 2025
Address: Lulworth Castle, East Lulworth, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5QS
Website: Camp Bestival
OUTALIMITS DISCO
Date: Friday 1st August 2025
Address: Bournemouth Aviation Museum, Merritown Lane, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 6BA
Website: Bournemouth Aviation Museum
SOUTHERN AQUATICS ANIMAL HANDLING
Date: Friday 1st August 2025
Address: Southern Aquatics, Northmead Drive, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7XZ
Facebook: Southern Aquatics
LYME REGIS CARNIVAL WEEK
Dates: Friday 1st - Saturday 9th August 2025
Location: Across Lyme Regis
Website: Lyme Regis Carnival
STICKS & BONES SCHOOLS OUT CELEBRATION
Date: Saturday 2nd August 2025
Address: Sticks & Bones, Hope Square, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8TR
Website: Sticks & Bones
DORSET FOOD & ARTS FESTIVAL MARKET
Date: Saturday 2nd August 2025
Address: The Great Field, Peverell Avenue, Poundbury, Dorset, DT1 3RH
Facebook: Dorset Festival
STOMPIN ON THE QUOMPS
Date: Saturday 2nd August 2025
Address: Christchurch Quay, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1BY
Website: Stompin on the Quomps
LODERS FETE
Date: Saturday 2nd August 2025
Address: Loders Court, Loders, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3RZ
LOVE PORTLAND FESTIVAL
Date: Saturday 2nd August 2025
Address: The Old Cricket Field, Grove Farm Estate, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1GD
DORSET CHILLI FESTIVAL
Dates: Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd August 2025
Address: Stock Gaylard Estate, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 2BG
Website: Dorset Chilli Festival
WEST BAY WEEKEND
Dates: Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd August 2025
Location: West Bay Green
Website: West Bay Days
BOUNCE PARK BOURNEMOUTH
Info: The inflatable theme park features nine interconnected inflatables with a wide range of activities, including a climbing wall, obstacle course, and toddler zone.
Dates: Saturday 2nd August - Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Talbot Heath School, Rothesay Road, Talbot Woods, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH4 9NJ
Website: The Bounce Park
OCEAN BEACH HOTEL & SPA SILENT DISCO
Date: Sunday 3rd August 2025
Address: Ocean Beach Hotel & Spa, 32 East Overcliff Drive, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 3AQ
Website: Ocean Beach Hotel & Spa
BOURNEMOUTH ELECTRIC FAMILY FEST
Date: Sunday 3rd August 2025
Address: Bournemouth Electric Club, 1 Broadway Lane, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 0AA
Website: Bournemouth Electric Club
HAMWORTHY CLUB FAMILY FUN DAY
Date: Sunday 3rd August 2025
Address: The Hamworthy Club, Magna Road, Canford Magna, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 3AP
GARDEN GATE TEA ROOM SUMMER PARTY
Date: Sunday 3rd August 2025
Address: Garden Gate Tea Room, 7 North Street, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 4AB
Facebook: Garden Gate Tea Room
LYME REGIS MUSEUM ACTIVITIES
Dates: Various dates
Address: Lyme Regis Museum, Bridge Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3QA
Website: Lyme Regis Museum
SWANAGE PIER CHILDREN’S HISTORY WALKS
Info: Swanage Pier has a fascinating history and has always been an important part of Swanage. You will take a walk along the Pier, for about 45 minutes, strolling in the footsteps of past generations to learn more about the history, including hearing about pirates, smugglers, sunken treasure, and wrecks.
Dates: Various dates
Location: Swanage Pier
Website: Swanage Pier
BOURNEMOUTH NATURAL SCIENCE SOCIETY OPEN DAYS
Dates: Various dates
Address: BNSS, 39 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 3NS
Website: BNSS
THE WALLED GARDEN BUG & EXOTIC ANIMAL EXPERIENCES
Dates: Tuesday 5th, Saturday 16th & Tuesday 26th August 2025
Address: The Walled Garden, Station Road, Moreton, Dorset, DT2 8RH
Website: The Walled Garden
WAREHAM WEDNESDAYS
Date: Wednesday 6th August 2025
Location: Wareham Quay
Website: Wareham Wednesdays
THE BLUE POOL WILD WEDNESDAYS
Info: On Wednesdays, children aged 5 - 15 can enjoy hands-on bushcraft activities like bird box making, fire lighting and safety, paracord bracelet crafting and bug hunts.
Dates: Wednesday 6th - Wednesdays 27th August 2025
Address: The Blue Pool, Furzebrook Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5AR
Website: The Blue Pool
BURTON BRADSTOCK CHURCH FETE
Date: Thursday 7th August 2025
Address: St Mary’s Church, Burton Bradstock, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4QY
DINO TALES: JURASSIC RESCUE
Info: Flapping frills and dino thrills await as you set off on the ultimate wild rescue mission with state-of-the-art walking dinosaurs, some of which have never been seen on a stage before. You’ll encounter Freya the dancing Raptor, Dylan the Dilophosaurus, Angie the Ankylosaurus, Scar the Spinosaurus and Bruce the mighty T-Rex!
Date: Friday 8th August 2025
Address: Bournemouth Pavilion, Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BU
Website: Bournemouth Pavilion
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM PRESENTS DINOSAUR LIVE!
Date: Friday 8th August 2025
Address: Weymouth Pavilion, Esplanade, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8ED
Website: Weymouth Pavilion
JAMIE JIGSAW ENTERTAINMENT AT THE WOODHOUSE GARDENS
Date: Friday 8th August 2025
Address: Woodhouse Gardens, The Tabernacle, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7DN
Website: Blandford Forum Town Council
PURBECK RALLY
Dates: Friday 8th - Sunday 10th August 2025
Address: Worgret Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 6AB
Website: Purbeck Rally
JURASSIC FIELDS FESTIVAL
Dates: Friday 8th - Sunday 10th August 2025
Address: West Bay Fields, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 5LB
Website: Jurassic Fields Festival
CANFORD HEATH SUMMER FETE
Date: Saturday 9th August 2025
Address: Neighbourhood Centre Green, Canford Heath, Poole, Dorset, BH17 8UE
Facebook: AR Canford Heath
CIRQUE: THE GREATEST SHOW REIMAGINED
Date: Saturday 9th August 2025
Address: Bournemouth Pavilion, Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BU
Website: Bournemouth Pavilion
HORNS INN CHARITY FAMILY DAY
Date: Saturday 9th August 2025
Address: The Horns Inn, 182 Christchurch Road Ferndown, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 8SS
Website: The Horns Inn
CHARMOUTH PARTY IN THE PARK
Date: Saturday 9th August 2025
Address: Barrs Lane Playing Field, Charmouth, Dorset
Facebook: Charmouth Events
TEDDY BEARS PARACHUTE JUMP & ZIPLINE
Date: Saturday 9th August 2025
Address: Durweston Village Hall, Church Road, Durweston, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 0QA
Website: Teddy 20
TUCKTON TEA GARDENS SUMMER PARTY
Date: Saturday 9th August 2025
Address: Tuckton Tea Gardens, Belle Vue Road, Southbourne, Dorset, BH6 3BA
Website: Tuckton Tea Gardens
THE MARSH FUN DAY
Date: Saturday 9th August 2025
Address: The Marsh Playing Fields, Knightsdale Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8NG
FAB FEST
Date: Saturday 9th August 2025
Address: Pavilion Gardens, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7AA
Facebook: FAB Dorset
POOLE RNLI CELEBRATION WEEKEND
Date: Saturday 9th & Sunday 10 August 2025
Address: RNLI, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ
Facebook: Poole RNLI Lifeboat
MOUSE GETS A FRIGHT: MUSICAL SHOW
Dates: Saturday 9th & Sunday 10 August 2025
Address: Sandy Hill Studios, Sandy Hill Lane, Corfe Castle, Dorset, BH20 5JF
Website: Sandy Hill Arts
THE ISLE OF PURBECK MODEL RAILWAY EXHIBITION
Info: The event will appeal to young and old fans of scaled down trains. The main hall and side room will be packed with 14 model railway exhibits in a range of scales and sizes, representing different eras of railway history. Each exhibit represents hours of painstaking work to capture a brief moment in time.
Dates: Saturday 9th & Sunday 10 August 2025
Address: Harmans Cross Village Hall, Harmans Cross, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 3EB
Facebook: The Isle of Purbeck Model Railway Show
SWANAGE LIFEBOAT WEEK
Dates: Saturday 9th – Sunday 17th August 2025
Location: Across Swanage
Facebook: Swanage Lifeboat
DORCHESTER VEGAN MARKET
Date: Sunday 10th August 2025
Address: Maumbury Rings, Weymouth Avenue, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1TY
Facebook: Dorchester Vegan Market
UPWEY’S BIG AFFAIR
Date: Sunday 10th August 2025
Address: Upwey House, 75 Church Street, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 5QE
MUDEFORD LIFEBOAT FUN DAY
Date: Sunday 10th August 2025
Location: Mudeford Quay
Facebook: Mudeford Lifeboat Fun Day
THE PRINCESS PROMS
Info: Calling all Princesses and Princes, you are invite you to an enchanting concert singing the magical themes from your favourite Princess movies including Frozen, Cinderella, Little Mermaid plus many more.
Date: Sunday 10th August 2025
Address: Bournemouth Pavilion, Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BU
Website: Bournemouth Pavilion
HORRIBLE HISTORIES: GORGEOUS GEORGIANS & VILE VICTORIANS
Date: Sunday 10th August 2025
Address: The Regent, 51 High Street, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1AS
Website: The Regent
CIRQUE: THE GREATEST SHOW REIMAGINED
Date: Sunday 10th August 2025
Address: Weymouth Pavilion, Esplanade, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8ED
Website: Weymouth Pavilion
BRIDPORT CARNIVAL WEEK
Dates: Sunday 10th – Sunday 17th August 2025
Location: Across Bridport
Website: Bridport Carnival
SOUTHERN AQUATICS MEET THE MEERKATS
Dates: Tuesday 12th – Tuesday 19th August 2025
Address: Southern Aquatics, Northmead Drive, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7XZ
Facebook: Southern Aquatics
WAREHAM WEDNESDAYS
Date: Wednesday 13th August 2025
Location: Wareham Quay
Website: Wareham Wednesdays
WIMBORNE FAMILY HUB OPEN DAY
Date: Wednesday 13th August 2025
Address: Wimborne Family Hub, Gordon Road, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 2AP
Website: Wimborne Family Hub
GILLINGHAM & SHAFTESBURY SHOW
Info: This show raises funds for the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Society to help support farming and the countryside. The traditional show has 1000s of animals, trade and craft stands, arena events, food hall, farmers market and much more.
Dates: Wednesday 13th & Thursday 14th August 2025
Address: Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 9PL
Website: Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show
TUCKTON TEA GARDENS CREATURE ENCOUNTERS
Date: Thursday 14th August 2025
Address: Tuckton Tea Gardens, Belle Vue Road, Southbourne, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH6 3BA
Website: Tuckton Tea Gardens
WE OUT HERE FESTIVAL
Dates: Thursday 14th – Sunday 17th August 2025
Address: St Giles House, Wimborne St Giles, Dorset, BH21 5NA
Website: We Out Here Festival
PURBECK VALLEY FOLK FESTIVAL
Dates: Thursday 14th – Sunday 17th August 2025
Address: Purbeck Valley Farm, Valley Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5HU
Website: Purbeck Valley Folk Festival
CHRISTCHURCH CARNIVAL
Info: Free family weekend of fun with a firework show, parade, fun fair, stalls, live music, and local food and drink.
Dates: Friday 15th - Sunday 17th August 2025
Location: Christchurch Town & Quay
Website: Christchurch Carnival
V DUB AT THE PUB
Info: Families can enjoy live music, DJs, vintage and retro cycle ride, dancing, film show, street food, hot tubs, fun sports, river activities, dog show, creative kids activity, fun fair, stalls, yoga and of course V Dubs.
Dates: Friday 15th - Sunday 17th August 2025
Address: Julians Field, Julians Road, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1EF
Website: V Dub at the Pub
RIVERSIDE FEST
Date: Saturday 16th August 2025
Address: The Bridge, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 2BS
Facebook: Riverside Fest
BEAMINSTER LIVING HISTORY DAY
Date: Saturday 16th August 2025
Address: Beaminster Museum, Whitcombe Road, Beaminster, Dorset, DT8 3NB
Website: Beaminster Museum
CANFORD SUMMER FAIR
Dates: Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th August 2025
Address: Canford School, Canford Magna, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 3AD
Website: The Wessex Events Company
PURBECK FILM FESTIVAL CINEMA UNDER THE STARS
Info: Enjoy a magical season of summer screenings in some of Purbeck’s most iconic outdoor locations.
Dates: Saturday 16th August - Saturday 6th September 2025
Locations: Studland, Swanage, Corfe Castle & Wareham
Website: Purbeck Film Festival
WEYMOUTH COLLEGE SUMMER FAIR
Date: Sunday 17th August 2025
Address: Weymouth College Sports Field, Cranford Avenue, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 7LQ
MAD 4 ANIMALS AT AVON HEATH COUNTRY PARK
Info: Not only will you see a highly entertaining show, but directly afterwards there will be a chance for you to get your hands on some of the animals in the show and even have pictures with the giant snakes!
Date: Monday 18th August 2025
Address: Avon Heath Country Park, Brocks Pine, St Leonards, Dorset, BH24 2DH
Website: Mad 4 Animals
THE TOWN MILL MINI MILLERS
Info: This summer, children can find out all about flour milling and baking with the flour. There’s daily flour milling demonstrations, watch the huge water wheel turning, activity sheets and try some summer bakes made with the Town Mill flour. In addition to this, children can upgrade to a Mini Millers Experience to produce their own bag of wholemeal wheat flour.
Dates: Tuesday 19th - Thursday 21st August 2025
Address: The Town Mill, Mill Lane, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3PU
Website: The Town Mill
WAREHAM WEDNESDAYS
Date: Wednesday 20th August 2025
Location: Wareham Quay
Website: Wareham Wednesdays
POOLE COMMUNITIES TRUST FAMILY FUN DAY
Date: Thursday 21st August 2025
Address: By The Quay School, Turlin Road, Poole, Dorset, BH16 5AH
Facebook: Poole Communities Trust
THE MELSPLASH SHOW
Info: The showground is packed full of exhibits including livestock, horses, homecrafts and horticulture. There are over 400 trade stands selling everything from locally produced food to tractors!
Date: Thursday 21st August 2025
Address: The West ay Showgrounds, West Bay Road, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4EG
Website: The Melsplash Show
WEYMOUTH SANDCASTLE COMPETITION
Date: Saturday 23rd August 2025
Location: Weymouth Beach (Pavilion End)
Website: Sandworld
NICKS FARM SUMMER BONANZA
Dates: Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th August 2025
Address: Nicks Farm, Valley Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 0EB
Website: Nicks Farm
TRUE LOVERS KNOT FAMILY FUN DAY & VINTAGE RALLY
Dates: Saturday 23rd – Monday 25th August 2025
Address: True Lovers Knot, Tarrant Keyneston, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 9JG
ABBEY FARM FLOWER FESTIVAL
Dates: Saturday 23rd – Monday 25th August 2025
Address: Abbey Farm, Church Street, Abbotsbury, Dorset, DT3 4JJ
Website: Abbey Farm
SHINEFEST
Date: Sunday 24th August 2025
Address: Kingston Maurward House, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8PY
Website: Shine 21 Dorset
ANONYMOUS FESTIVAL
Date: Monday 25th August 2025
Address: Borough Gardens, Cornwall Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1RG
Website: Anonymous Festival
WAREHAM WEDNESDAYS
Date: Wednesday 27th August 2025
Location: Wareham Quay
Website: Wareham Wednesdays
SHREK THE MUSICAL
Info: Bridport Musical Theatre Company return to the Electric Palace Stage this summer with another ‘Shrektacular’ production! This award-winning ‘Shrek the Musical’ brings to life the world of Shrek live on stage in an unforgettable production to melt hearts of all ages.
Dates: Wednesday 27th August - Saturday 30th August 2025
Address: Bridport Electric Palace, 35 South Street, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3NY
Website: Electric Palace
WEST BAY DISCOVERY CENTRE ART WORKSHOP
Date: Thursday 28th August 2025
Address: West Bay Discovery Centre, West Bay Road, West Bay, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4EN
Website: West Bay Discovery Centre
TUCKTON TEA GARDENS CREATURE ENCOUNTERS
Date: Thursday 28th August 2025
Address: Tuckton Tea Gardens, Belle Vue Road, Southbourne, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH6 3BA
Website: Tuckton Tea Gardens
THE STREET FOOD FACTORY
Dates: Saturday 23rd - Monday 25th August 2025
Address: The Factory Space, 1172-1180 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH7 6DY
Website: The Factory Space
DOG, SAUSAGE & CIDER FESTIVAL
Date: Sunday 24th August 2025
Address: The Springhead, Sutton Poyntz, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 6LW
Website: The Springhead
SWANAGE & WAREHAM RFC FUN DAY
Date: Sunday 24th August 2025
Address: Swanage & Wareham RFC, Bestwall Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 4HY
BLANDFORD FORUM COMMUNITY SUMMER FAYRE
Date: Monday 25th August 2025
Address: Marsh and Ham, West Street, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7AW
WEST BAY DISCOVERY CENTRE ART WORKSHOP
Date: Thursday 28th August 2025
Address: West Bay Discovery Centre, West Bay Road, West Bay, Dorset, DT6 4EN
Website: West Bay Discovery Centre
DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE
Date: Friday 29th – Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Lighthouse Poole, 21 Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG
Website: Lighthouse Poole
PORTLAND ROCKS
Dates: Friday 29th - Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Market Ground, Easton Lane, Portland, Dorset, DT5 2EN
Website: Portland Rocks
NOTHE FORT SILENT DISCO
Date: Saturday 30th August 2025
Address: Nothe Fort, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UF
Website: Nothe Fort
MUSCLIFF PARK END OF SUMMER FESTIVAL
Date: Sunday 31st August 2025
Address: Muscliff Park, Shillingstone Drive, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH9 3LR
Please always check an event is running before travelling as cancellations can occur. If you know of any more family friendly events in July then please do Contact Us.
Need more ideas for the things to do with the family?
Summer Holiday Events & Activities
Dorset Attractions & Places to Visit
Soft Plays & Play Cafes
Splash Parks & Paddling Pools
PYO Fruit Farms
Sunflower Trails & PYO
Summer Fireworks Displays
Car Boot Sales
Sport & Leisure Centres
Popular Blog Posts:
Free & Low Cost places to go in Dorset with Kids
Crazy Golf Courses in Dorset
Where to see Planes, Trains and Automobiles
Walking the Lawrence of Arabia Trail
The Blue Pool
Steamer Point Nature Reserve
Tout Quarry Sculpture Park in Portland
Exploring Badbury Rings Iron Age Hillfort
Durlston Country Park to Swanage Town Circular Walk
The Great Field Play Park at Poundbury
Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre & Beach
SandWorld Family Day Out
Hamworthy Park & Paddling Pool
