As well as beautiful beaches, lovely countryside and fun attractions, Dorset is home to a wide variety of festivals throughout the year. From delicious local food to live music, there’s something for all ages and interests. And with our collection of attractive self-catering Dorset cottages within easy reach of many of the venues, you’ll be perfectly placed to join the action!
Shaftesbury Festival of Food and Drink
3rd May 2020
If you’re a food wanting to sample some of Dorset’s delicious local produce, then the Shaftesbury Festival of Food and Drink is for you. With stalls running the length of the town, you’ll be able to visit some of the region’s best producers, see some live music, attend cooking demonstrations and (of course) witness the iconic cheese races up the gold hill!
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Wimborne Minster Folk Festival
12th – 14th June 2020
The Wimborne Folk Festival is traditionally held on the second weekend of June, filling the streets with music, dancers, workshops, stalls and much more. With over sixty acts attending the festival in 2020, it seems to expand every year. The procession through the town is always a highlight, creating a spectacular display of colour and noise that everyone will love. Visitors can either stroll the streets, taking in the free shows and enjoying the atmosphere, or buy a ticket to see one of the headline acts.
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UK Boogie Woogie Festival, Sturminster Newton
3rd – 5th July 2020
The UK Boogie Woogie Festival is a celebration of Boogie Woogie music, drawing in artists from across the world. With musicians, dancers, singers and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From big stages to workshops and al fresco events, you’ll be surrounded by music and fun events, as well as some plenty of food and drink.
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The Shaftesbury Fringe
3rd – 5th July 2020
Discover all things creative at The Shaftesbury Fringe, the open access performing festival that welcomes both new and established artists for a few days of fun and entertainment. With over 30 unique venues throughout the town, there’s plenty of choice, and many acts use Shaftesbury as a practice for the Edinburgh Fringe festival later in the year.
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Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Show
19th August 2020
The Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Show combines food, family entertainment and amazing displays for a truly amazing event. From hair-raising tricks and stunts in the main arena, to delicious food in the cookery theatre and fun in the craft marquee, there’s something for all the family to enjoy. There are also over 450 trade stands for visitors to peruse, so you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to gifts, snacks and other souvenirs.
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Great Dorset Steam Fair
27th – 31st August 2020
From impressive steam-fuelled machinery to a steam funfair, and even vintage cars, heavy horses and country craftsmen… you’ll find it all at the Great Dorset Steam Fair. There’s a wide range of entertainment on offer, including 1920’s style stage shows, as well as over 500 trade stands offering all manner of goods and produce. This popular show is an impressive and popular day out, and bound to have something for all ages.
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End of the Road Festival, Larmer Tree
3rd – 6th September 2020
The End of the Road festival is an independent rock and indie music festival that’s become increasingly popular over the last few years. Started in 2006, it’s one of the last festivals of the year and contains four stages (plus a potential secret venue or two!), all hosting a unique line-up of both new and well-known acts. The festival is held in the charming, intimate setting of Salisbury’s Larmer Tree Gardens and includes a children’s area, film tent, comedy tent and games area, along with much more.
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Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival
12th – 13th September 2020
There aren’t many things that everyone can agree on, but we think a good cheese might be one of them! If you agree, the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival could be your perfect day out. The festival has run since 1999 and regularly raises thousands of pounds for charity. With a wonderful selection of food producers, demonstrations and arts and crafts, as well as plenty of children’s activities, you’re bound to enjoy an entertaining (and delicious!) day out.
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Of course, this is just the start of the fun events on offer in Dorset, from holiday celebrations to family days out. With a cottage break, you can do as much or as little as you want and enjoy some excellent accommodation within easy reach of a fun day out.
Book your next Dorset cottage holiday today.