Bumper week of events kick-starts a summer of community culture across BCP
A packed week of events is set to launch a summer of community-led fun across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, with everything from live music and Morris dancing to classic cars, food festivals and family-friendly celebrations.
With warm weather continuing to draw huge crowds to BCP’s award-winning beaches — with millions of trips made to the coastline each month — BCP Council says there’s also plenty happening beyond the sand, with dozens of events, festivals and cultural activities taking place across the towns this summer. The council’s events team will be helping to facilitate many of them.
While temperatures are expected to be cooler over the next week, anyone heading to the coast or attending events is still being reminded to pack sunscreen, stay hydrated and keep an eye on changing weather conditions.
Celebrating the communities behind the events
BCP Council says the summer programme is all about celebrating local communities — from volunteers and event organisers to local businesses and residents — with a mix of events that highlight the people who bring the area to life.
What’s on this week and next
This week’s line-up includes something for all ages, including:
- Poole Quay Folk Festival – returning for a full weekend of music and Morris dancing
- Shake and Stir Armed Forces Weekender – celebrating the Armed Forces with family fun, including appearances from BCP Fostering’s Benji the Bear
- Summer Sounds on Christchurch Quay – 1 July
- Classic cars along Poole Quay – 3 July
- Upton Country Park Festival – 3 & 4 July
- Foodie Fest at Muscliff Park – 4 July
- Swing Unlimited Big Band at Highcliffe Castle – 5 July
The council also referenced the hope of “another England win” as part of the week’s big-event buzz.
Council: “Just the beginning of a fantastic summer”
Cllr Andy Martin, BCP Council’s Portfolio Holder for Customer, Communications and Culture, said the events showcase the diversity of the three towns and the strength of the communities that make them a great place to live, work and visit.
He said the council is proud to support a programme that brings people together, supports local businesses and highlights the best of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole — adding that this is just the beginning of what promises to be a fantastic summer.
More culture on the way
BCP Council also highlighted a wider programme of shows and concerts from partners BHLive, with entertainment planned across the summer — from Elvis tribute acts and former Strictly Come Dancing stars to stand-up comedy and family shows including Dinosaurs Live!
Keep an eye on the forecast
The Met Office is forecasting cooler temperatures for the BCP area following the recent extreme heat, but the council says conditions can change quickly and residents are encouraged to keep an eye on the forecast over the coming week.
