Christmas light trails, fairytale adventures, ice skating, live bands and classic pantomimes are just some of the attractions to enjoy this festive season across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) this Christmas!
Get set to enjoy the fun as Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland, Christchurch’s Christmas Lights Switch On, Poole’s Christmas Maritime Light Trail and Westbourne’s Christmas Lights Switch On provide entertainment for all the family.
Christchurch Town Council and the local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) – Bournemouth Coastal BID, Bournemouth Town Centre BID, Christchurch BID, and Poole BID – have collaborated with local businesses and BCP Council to organise a variety of festive events, decorations, and experiences throughout the conurbation.
Councillor Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council, said:
“This Christmas, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are buzzing with festive activities. From our stunning light trails to pantomimes, carols and vibrant Christmas markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We’re delighted that so many of our local organisations and businesses have come together this year to celebrate the season and offer these experiences for our communities and visitors alike – making it a memorable time for all.”
Bournemouth
From November 15 to December 31, 2024, Bournemouth Coastal BID and BCP Council, supported by South Western Railway, are thrilled to transform the Lower Gardens once again into the magical Christmas Tree Wonderland.
This spectacular trail begins at Bournemouth Square and winds through the Lower Gardens, showcasing exquisitely decorated replica Christmas trees from around the world, a charming festive train track, and a breathtaking ceiling of lights.
This year, Adventure Attractions will provide the fabulous festive decorations that extend the trail from Lower Gardens all the way to the end of Bournemouth Pier, so come and discover the full Christmas trail and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit!
Fiona McArthur, Head of Bournemouth Coastal BID, said: “We’re excited to support Christmas Tree Wonderland, the Pokesdown Christmas Tree and the vibrant festive activities planned for Bournemouth, Westbourne, Boscombe and Southbourne this year. These events not only bring our community together but also boost local businesses, creating a truly magical experience for all.”
Bournemouth’s Town Centre BID will add to the holiday atmosphere by hosting Festive Streets, a brand new and completely free series of events in Bournemouth town centre, in partnership with BCP Council and the Town Centre Improvement Fund, kicking off on 21 November and taking place every Thursday evening until Christmas from 4pm until 7pm.
Each event will take place in a different area of town, and will feature choirs, brass bands, selfie station, festive children’s activities, Santa, and walkaround entertainment including an animatronic polar bear and the spectacular ice dragon.
- Thu 21 November at Horseshoe Common
- Thu 28 November in Beale Place
- Thu 5 December on Westover Road
- Thu 12 December on Commercial Road
- Thu 19 December in The Triangle
In addition, Bournemouth town centre visitors can look out for Christmas Projections from 21 November to 1 January, transforming iconic buildings on Commercial Road and Old Christchurch Road with Christmas scenes designed by students at Arts University Bournemouth, plus traditional illuminations throughout Bournemouth town centre, thanks to the Town Centre BID.
Paul Kinvig, Chief Operating Officer of Bournemouth Town Centre BID said: “We want to ensure Bournemouth is a vibrant, festive and fun place to be across this season for all the family. So, we’re thrilled to offer even more for everyone to enjoy in 2024 – traditional lights and Christmas projections, Father Christmas spreading cheer to the awe-inspiring animatronic polar bear, live music & spectacular fire shows – and it’s all for free!”
For thirsty shoppers, the Alpine Market and Alpine Lodge Bar in the Square offer a fantastic festive atmosphere with delicious treats. Meanwhile, from 14 November until 5 January 2025 winter sports lovers can find their feet at the open-air Skate Ice Rink, overlooked by the twinkling lights of the Lower Gardens.
For those who love a good pantomime, prepare to cheer for Jack as he faces the giant in the Bournemouth Pavilion’s Jack and the Beanstalk – running from 7 December 2024 to 5 January 2025.
From the 30 November through until Christmas, Westbourne will host festive events every Saturday, with music, choirs, and family-friendly activities across the area. In Boscombe and Southbourne, explore the local shops for unique gifts, whilst taking the opportunity to meet Father Christmas and also to say hello to Bournemouth’s famous goats and donkeys!
Step back in time and experience a Victorian Christmas at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, or challenge friends and family at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf, where festive lights and a candy hunt offer a fun outdoor activity, perfect for day or dusk.
Christchurch
The festivities will kick off in Christchurch this year on 23 November 2024 with Christchurch Town Council’s exciting Christmas Lights Switch On. Activities run from 11am to 7pm, with the big switch-on at 5pm.
The day’s entertainment includes live music from local bands and school choirs, fun fair rides and the opportunity to meet Santa Meanwhile, find tasty street food vendors, festive bars and the fantastic Hush Club Disco on the High Street with BMX displays, Bournemouth Goats and much more in Saxon Square. Plus, you can get your Christmas shopping started at the Priory’s craft and gift market and pop into Druitt Hall for artisan presents perfect for the whole family.
University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity are the Charity Partner for this year’s Christchurch Christmas Light Switch On event.
Councillor Paul Hilliard, Mayor of Christchurch said: “We are all very much looking forward to turning on the Christmas lights to mark the beginning of the Christmas festivities in Christchurch. From the end of November and into December many other voluntary and community groups are putting on a variety of Christmas activities and they would also love your support. We have something for everyone in Christchurch to celebrate this special time of year – Merry Christmas!”
This year, the Big Elf Hunt is on from 23 November to 20 December 2024 in Christchurch. Find an elf hidden in one of the businesses across the town and be in with a chance to win over £100 worth of gifts in time for Christmas.
A new event, Carols in the Square will be held on the 14 December. Held in Saxon Square, from 4.30pm onwards there will be a live band and festive treats available for all to enjoy.
Louise Berkhauer, Christchurch BID Joint Operations Manager, said: “We’re excited to support Christmas celebrations in Christchurch! From the Lights Switch On and the Big Elf Hunt to festive markets and carol singing, there’s a delightful mix of activities for families and friends. It’s all about coming together to create wonderful memories and embracing the joy of the season!”
This year, a Living Advent Calendar will run from 1 to 24 December – adding an extra layer of festive fun to the celebrations! Each evening at 6pm, a different live performance will take place at various locations around the town. The surprise performers are revealed daily with acts ranging from music and dance to theatre and storytelling. This free event, organised by the Christchurch Rotary Club, raises funds for local charities.
The Regent Centre’s Christmas Spectacular starts 14 December. This unmissable show is filled with show-stopping musical numbers and promises to deliver festive fun for the entire family.
At Highcliffe Castle, the ‘Creatives at the Castle’ Christmas Fair which showcases local artisans, takes place on 23 and 24 November. Meanwhile, the Christmas Tree Festival, from 1 to 22 December, features beautifully decorated trees in the State Rooms, along with festive storytelling and a trail for children.
Poole
From 23 November 2024 to 1 January 2025, Poole BID and BCP Council, supported by South Western Railway, are excited to present a series of celebrations, including the free Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail. Follow thousands of twinkling lights from Falkland Square, through the high street, and down to Poole Quay, where you’ll encounter displays such as a galleon, walk-through lantern, a bauble, and a 13-metre sea-life-themed Christmas tree.
Jacqui Rock, Lead of Poole BID, said: “Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail, is a wonderful celebration that highlights our town’s rich maritime heritage. We invite families to join us for a festive season filled with various events and activities that spread joy and community spirit, not forgetting our wonderful retail and hospitality offering and so, why not make a day of it?”
The festivities organised by Poole BID begin on Saturday 23 November with a lively Father Christmas parade, which includes the Gugge Band and choirs, and starts at Lighthouse Poole at 4pm before winding through the high street to Poole Quay for the showstopping finale featuring Rock Choir and a fire performance.
Throughout the season, shoppers will also be entertained by a Christmas brass band who will be adding to the festive atmosphere every Sunday from 12 – 2pm throughout December, and the Poole BID Choirs at Christmas who are set to sing every Saturday afternoon from 23rd Nov to 21st Dec at various locations across Poole Town.
For a direct line to the big man, don’t miss Santa’s Postbox located at Julia’s House Charity Shop, 139 High Street.
Visitors to Poole can also vote for their favourite Christmas window display for the chance to win £100. Voting is open between the 6th and 22nd December.
For some extra festive magic, head to the Lighthouse to enjoy their spectacular pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, running from 7 December 2024 to 5 January 2025.
Upton House Christmas Makers Market offers all things festive on 30 November and 1 December. Explore craft stalls from local artisans and enjoy pop-up tea rooms in the historic Upton House. Local choirs will provide festive entertainment throughout the weekend.
Wherever you are, make sure to join in the festive fun and create wonderful memories this Christmas season across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
