What’s On This Weekend: July 24–26

The summer holidays have officially arrived, and the coastal vibe across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole is electric! This weekend marks the launch of summer seafront traditions, sun-drenched music festivals, and outdoor castle trails. Grab the kids and check out what is happening from Friday 24th July to Sunday 26th July.

Friday 24th July: Fireworks and Reggae Vibes

Bournemouth Friday Fireworks Kickoff

• ⏰ 10:00 PM | 📍 Bournemouth Seafront & Pier | 💰 Free Summer has officially landed! Friday night marks the very first display of the summer firework season over Bournemouth Pier. Head down to the seafront early with a fish-and-chip dinner, enjoy live music on the pier, and watch the night sky light up over the bay at 10 PM.

Bournemouth Reggae Weekender – Day 1

• ⏰ Afternoon & Evening | 📍 Kings Park, Bournemouth | 💰 Ticketed Transforming Kings Park into a celebration of Caribbean culture, this colorful weekend kicks off with live reggae, dancehall, authentic street food, and pop-up sound systems. It is welcoming for all ages and features a dedicated Silent Disco space for younger music lovers.

Saturday 25th July: Outdoor Trails and Festival Fun

Seaside Summer Outdoor Trail Launch

• ⏰ 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 📍 Highcliffe Castle, Christchurch | 💰 Low Cost Trail Launching this Saturday, Highcliffe Castle opens its brand-new summer outdoor trail. It’s a wonderful way for younger children to explore the castle grounds and surrounding nature while solving clues right by the cliff top.

Bournemouth Reggae Weekender – Main Festival Day

• ⏰ All Day | 📍 Kings Park, Bournemouth | 💰 Ticketed Saturday is the biggest day of the Reggae Weekender! Expect craft markets, delicious food stalls, workshops, and family-friendly entertainment running alongside a stacked main stage music lineup.

Sunday 26th July: Symphonic Adventures and Gallery Trails

BSO's "Curious Creatures & Adventurous Animals"

• ⏰ 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | 📍 Corfe Castle / Meyrick Park Area | 💰 Ticketed The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra presents a family concert taking audiences on a musical adventure through forests and across oceans. It’s a magical way to introduce kids to orchestral music in an outdoor summer setting.

Flower Fairies™: Enchantment by the Sea

• ⏰ 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 📍 Russell-Cotes Art Gallery, Bournemouth | 💰 Standard Entry If you need a cooler indoor break, head to the Russell-Cotes villa to hunt for whimsical sea fairies tucked throughout the historic rooms and gardens—an ideal activity for toddlers and young primary school kids.

🏖️ Ongoing Weekend Staples

• Car & Bike Night (Poole Quay): Catch classic cars on the quayside Friday evening starting at 6:00 PM.

• Park Yoga: Free outdoor morning sessions on Saturday and Sunday in selected local parks across BCP.