Schools out for summer and there’s plenty to keep children entertained in Dorset this year. Here’s our pick of events and things to do in Dorset this summer holiday
Beach clean at Kimmeridge Bay
30 July
Celebrate National Marine Week by discovering ways in which we can all help stop the tide of marine litter. At 2pm on 30 July head to Kimmeridge to take part in a microplastic beach clean with a nurdle hunt, weather dependent. Volunteers can drop in between 11am and 4pm.
Meet at the Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre. Call 01929 481 044 for more information.
Lyme Regis Carnival & Regatta
4 – 12 August
Celebrations happen both on and off the water, with fireworks, carnival processions, races and activities for all of the family.
Cattistock Countryside Show
5 August
Probably the prettiest traditional country show in the county with horse, dog, flower and produce competitions. Try wellie wanging, splatting a rat, firing an arrow or casting a fly, as well as indulging in local food and drink.
Treasure Island at Kingston Lacey
7 August
The discovery of a treasure map puts Jim Hawkins into a cat and mouse game with dangerous pirates in an outdoor performance at Kingston Lacey.
Booking essential: 0344 249 1895
Summer Wildlife Tour at Brownsea
8 August
Guided walk of the spectacular DWT nature reserve, including the lagoon, summer flowers, butterflies and reptiles. Runs 11am – 1pm. Booking essential 01202 709445
Weymouth Carnival
14 –15 August
The charter for a carnival in Weymouth was granted by Edward II in 1318, events include Torch Light Procession, Carnival Procession and Soap Box Race.
A theatre performance of Tales from the Trees
17 – 18 August
Enjoy a terrific tangle of puppetry, storytelling, music and comedy in this show which embraces natural history.
17 August, 3pm at Durlston Country Park 01929 424443
18 August, 2pm at Child Okeford Village Hall 01258 861621
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Christchurch Carnival
18 – 19 August
Fun and fireworks on the quay on Saturday and a colourful carnival procession on Sunday.
Bridport Carnival
18 – 19 August
A fun-packed extravaganza concluding on Sunday with Bridport’s famous Torchlight Procession at 9pm from Bucky Doo Square to West Bay for the firework display.
A theatre performance of Rustle
23 August
Paddleboat Theatre Company sets up camp at Maumbury Rings for a family adventure jam-packed with puppets, songs and outdoor surprises at 3pm.
Box office: 01305 266926
Open air cinema by starlight at Corfe Castle
24 – 25 August
Paddington 2 is being shown at the starlight open air cinema in Corfe Castle’s grounds on 24 August followed by Bedknobs & Broomsticks on 25 August. The films start at 8.45pm and tickets can be bought on the gate.
Find out what’s happening in Dorset this weekend by clicking here.
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