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- What Is Happening In Bournemouth
We might be a little biased, but we believe Bournemouth is one of the best towns in the UK to explore.
Whether you’re planning a day out, a weekend visit, or just looking for something new to do, we’ve rounded up the top events, attractions, and activities happening in Bournemouth right now.
Bournemouth parkrun - Every Saturday
Bournemouth parkrun is the perfect way to kickstart your Saturday, with a free, friendly 5k run every week at 9am . Open to all abilities, runners, joggers, and walkers alike, it’s a relaxed and welcoming community event. After crossing the finish line, participants usually stick around for a well‑earned coffee at the stadium café, making it as much a social morning out as it is a fitness boost.
Location: Kings Park, Athletics Stadium, Kings Park Drive, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH7 7AF
Vitality Bournemouth Bay Run 2026 - Sunday 22nd March
One of Bournemouth’s biggest spring highlights, the Vitality Bournemouth Bay Run returns on Sunday 22nd March 2026, offering a choice of races for all ages and abilities.
Set against the town’s stunning seven‑mile stretch of golden sand, runners can take on the Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, or Kids’ 1K, all starting around the Pier Approach area. Whether you're chasing a new PB or simply enjoying the coastal views, it's a feel‑good, community‑driven event with an unbeatable backdrop.
March for Men - Saturday 28th March
March for Men returns to Bournemouth Pier Approach on Saturday 28th March 2026, bringing the community together during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to support those affected by prostate cancer.
Starting with a 9:30am arrival for a 10am kick-off, participants can walk or run the route, either solo or with friends, all while raising funds for University Hospitals Dorset’s prostate cancer services. It’s a meaningful, community‑driven event that celebrates loved ones, spreads awareness, and helps create a brighter future for patients across Dorset.
Easter Egg Hunt - Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th April
Hop into the Easter weekend fun with a family‑friendly Easter Egg Hunt at Bournemouth Pier Amusements, running from Saturday 4th April to Sunday 5th April.
Kids can explore the arcade to track down hidden letters, using clues posted on the venue’s social media to help reveal a secret Easter word. Once solved, they can hand it in to receive a free Easter goodie bag, making it a perfect holiday activity by the seaside.
Tiger Day Spring - Saturday 18th April
Tiger Day Spring roars back into action on 18th April 2026 at The Tank Museum in Bovington, where visitors can witness Tiger 131, the world’s only running Tiger I, take to the arena in a dramatic WWII tank display!
The event features live tank action, expert talks, and living history experiences, making it a must‑see for military history fans and families alike. With behind‑the‑scenes tours, artifacts, and the chance to enter a raffle to win a ride in Tiger 131, it’s an unmissable day dedicated to one of history’s most iconic tanks.
Bournemouth Writing Festival - Friday 24th-Sunday 26th April
The Bournemouth Writing Festival takes place 24th-26th April 2026, bringing together more than 1,000 writers, authors, and industry professionals for a long weekend of creativity and inspiration.
Across multiple venues in the town centre, visitors can dive into talks, workshops, panels, masterclasses, literary walks, and agent 1:1 sessions, all designed to support writers at every level. Expect a lively mix of learning, networking, and hands‑on creative activities. Plus, plenty of chances to meet fellow writers and soak up the festival’s buzzing, coastal atmosphere.
Bournemouth 7s Festival 2026 - Friday 22nd-Sunday 24th May
The Bournemouth 7s Festival, taking place 22nd-24th May 2026, blends competitive sport with a full‑scale music festival at Chapel Gate.
Expect 30,000 festival‑goers, 100+ live acts and DJs, 12 festival arenas, and action across eight sports, including rugby, netball, women’s football, hockey, dodgeball, and more. With headline performances, themed parties, camping, and a buzzing day‑to‑night atmosphere, it’s one of the South Coast’s most energetic and unmissable weekends.
Bournemouth Crown Court Open Day - Saturday 6th June
Bournemouth Crown Court will host a public Open Day on Saturday 6th June 2026, offering a rare chance to step behind the scenes of the local justice system.
Running from 10am to 4pm, visitors can watch mock trials, tour the court cells, learn how fingerprinting works, explore a prison van, and chat with professionals about careers in criminal justice. It’s an informative, family‑friendly day designed to demystify how the courts operate and give the community a closer look at real courtroom life.
Shake & Stir Vintage Music Festival - Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th June
The Shake & Stir Vintage Music Festival returns on 27th-28th June 2026 at Fisherman’s Walk, Southbourne, bringing two days of live vintage music, dance, retro fashion, classic vehicles, and family‑friendly fun.
Reimagined as the Vintage Armed Forces Weekender, it also honours the Armed Forces with parades, heritage displays and the moving Beating the Retreat ceremony. A free community event with plenty of nostalgia and seaside charm.
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