Published on Wednesday 12 November 2025
This festive season, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) are transforming into a spectacular celebration of Christmas magic - full of joy, creativity, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you're chasing twinkling lights, discovering the magic of historical treasures, embracing the outdoors with a seasonal twist, crafting memories with loved ones, or dancing to the rhythm of live music, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole is offering something for everyone.
Wander through enchanted gardens, explore historic gems like Highcliffe Castle and Poole Museum, indulge in a creamy hot chocolate and immerse yourself in storytelling and hands on festive crafts.
Feel the festive beat as town centres come alive with vibrant music, bustling markets and heartwarming entertainment. From carol singers to market stalls, high streets will offer a chance to celebrate and support local businesses.
Cllr Richard Herrett, Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure, and Commercial Operations at BCP Council, said: “This Christmas, along with our partners we’re bringing the magic to life. From twinkling trails and beautifully adorned heritage venues to joyful workshops and bustling markets, these experiences will be bringing people together. It’s a season to celebrate community, support local businesses, and create magical moments across the three towns.
“There’s something for everyone to enjoy so it’s the perfect time to wrap up warm, gather friends and family, and make the most of the Christmas spirit across the BCP area.”
In Bournemouth soak up the festive glow of the revamped Christmas in Bournemouth, operated by Seventa Events and SKATE Bournemouth, sponsored by Bournemouth Town Centre BID and Bournemouth Coastal BID.
Paul Kinvig, Chief Operating Officer of Bournemouth Town Centre BID said, “This new revamped Christmas Tree Wonderland has something for all the family, not just in The Square & Lower Gardens but also with light installations in The Triangle, Westover Road, Beale Place, Horseshoe Common & Lansdowne. With the Town Centre BID funding the lamppost lights as well its Christmas all across the town centre!”
Fiona McArthur Head of Bournemouth Coastal Bid said “Christmas in Bournemouth is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when local businesses and partners come together with a shared vision. This event not only adds festive sparkle to our town but also delivers real economic value driving overnight stays, increasing visitor spending, and supporting the incredible people who make up our hospitality and tourism sectors. We’re delighted to play our part and look forward to building on this success in the years to come.”
Discover the wonder of Bournemouth’s largest ever Christmas market situated in the centre of Bournemouth town, play mini golf after dark at the brand new Glow Golf evenings in the Snow and Glow Gardens Mini Golf with glowing golf balls and sparkling lights, and unwind with a winter warmer at the cosy Alpine Lodge Bar.
Just around the corner, Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf gets a festive makeover, complete with glitter tattoos, competitions, and a letter-writing station where children can send their Christmas wishes directly to Santa.
For those seeking a touch of tradition, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum invites visitors to step into a Victorian Christmas, with festive trails, elegant afternoon teas, and enchanting Candlelight Nights.
Over at Queen’s Park, the Woodpecker Café Bar will host a cosy festive roast and a lively Christmas quiz on 21 December. Book via queenspark@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or in person or call 01202 126888.
There are also plenty of Christmas events taking place in Westbourne, Southbourne and Boscombe, all funded by Bournemouth Coastal BID.
Christchurch town centre will sparkle with Christmas lights from late November through January, with an enchanting switch-on celebration on 22 November featuring live music, vibrant markets and unique gifts in Saxon Square. On 13 December, join a festive singalong with Christchurch Baptist Church’s lively band. Bring LED-lit lanterns or light-up wands to illuminate Saxon Square, join The Living Advent Calendar delights showcasing local talents nightly at 6pm and enjoy family-friendly activities and opportunities for volunteers to get involved, supported by Christchurch BID. Dive into the holiday spirit at www.visit-christchurch.co.uk
Louise Berkhauer, Operations Manager at Christchurch BID, said: "Christmas in Christchurch will be full of magic with Christchurch Town Councils Christmas light switch on, festive Carol singing, and this year's pantomime, Beauty and the Beast showing at The Regent. Christchurch always feels fantastic at Christmas with the beautifully decorated tree outside the Mayor's Parlour and our shops, cafes and hospitality venues ready to welcome customers with their wonderful Christmas offerings. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Christchurch this Christmas!"
A host of festive events will be held at Highcliffe Castle, including the much-loved Christmas Market on 22-23 November and the Tree Festival running from 5-23 December. Evening viewings with live music add a magical atmosphere to the historic venue.
In Poole, Scaplen’s Court at Poole Museum hosts Storytelling with Santa, complete with crafts, gifts and photo opportunities, while Upton Country Park delivers a full programme of seasonal activities. Highlights include the Ice and Snow Trail, Santa Paws for dog lovers, a Christmas Market, wreath-making workshops, festive teas, and the immersive Santa Experience on 20-21 December.
Poole’s town centre and quay will be illuminated with Christmas installations from 22 November to 1 January, with the Santa Parade and Light Switch-on kicking off the season in style. Expect music, fire shows and live performances to delight visitors of all ages, supported by Poole BID and BCP Council.
Wendy King, Poole BID Operations & Communications Manager, said:
“This Christmas, we invite everyone to come and ‘Discover Christmas in Poole.’ From the moment the lights switch on at our spectacular launch event on Saturday 22 November, featuring a Santa Parade setting off from the Lighthouse Theatre at 4 pm and finishing in dazzling style on Poole Quay with a fire eater performance, to the final twinkle of the trail on 1 January, Poole town will be shimmering with festive magic.”
Bournemouth Pavilion and BIC offer a vibrant line-up of festive shows including Cinderella, The Nutcracker, and Elf The Musical, plus the return of the Cool Coast Ice Rink for seasonal fun. Over in Christchurch and Poole, enjoy family favourites like Beauty and the Beast at the Regent Centre and Dick Whittington at Lighthouse Poole, packed with music, sparkle, and panto magic.
Local BCP Leisure Centres are joining the celebrations with festive decorations, a 12 Days of Fitness challenge, and Play and Meet Santa sessions at Kings Park Leisure and Learning Centre.
For those looking to explore the outdoors, scenic walking trails are available via the Explore BCP website, and the BCP Family Information Directory offers a wide range of family-friendly Christmas activities.
With support from BCP Council and its partners, local businesses and stakeholders across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are ready to welcome residents and visitors alike to a season filled with twinkling lights, theatrical magic and heartwarming community spirit.
We’ve curated a growing list of seasonal activities happening across BCP. We’re updating the list as more events are confirmed, so you can explore what’s on and choose the experiences that suit you best this Christmas season here.