What’s On
Event types
121 upcoming events
May 2026
Art at the Duchess with Lisa Embury
Lisa Embury with her passion for abstract art, mixed media, colours and mark marking!
Sat 23rd May - All day during opening hours
and 1 future schedules
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Art at PiPs Café
April, May and June brings new Art to PiPs Café
Sat 23rd May - All day
and 38 future schedules
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Art at Crossroads Café
Local art by local artists at Crossroads Café.
Sat 23rd May - All day
and 8 future schedules
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The Tiny Art House
A recreation of a Dorset artist Clem's home and studio, made by Art in Poundbury.
Sat 23rd May - All day
and 61 future schedules
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Dorset Art Weeks
Dorset Art Weeks at The Duchess of Cornwall Inn will feature three artists from Dorset ; Laura Cheeseman, Robert Forbes and John Whitchurch.
Sat 23rd May - 10:00am
and 15 future schedules
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Roman Dorchester Tour
Join our trained guides to step back in time and immerse yourself in the historic Roman town of Durnovaria.
Sat 23rd May - 10:30am
and 9 future schedules
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Craftfest – Crafty Cuppa’s 2nd Anniversary Celebration
Join The Crafty Cuppa for its 2nd anniversary CraftFest—a lively day of hands-on crafts, food, and family-friendly fun.
Sat 23rd May - 12:11pm
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Three Missing Chords live
Local acoustic trio playing a mix of popular classics, modern and folk music.
Sat 23rd May - 9:00pm
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The Dorchester Artisan Market
Dorset Artisan Markets are bringing a fabulous collection of over 200 artisan traders to the streets of Dorchester!
Sun 24th May - 10:00am
and 5 future schedules
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Chalk the Walk
Celebrate the beginning of Dorset Art Weeks with a morning of fun and creativity!
Sun 24th May - 10:00am
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Hardy’s Dorchester Tour
Step into the world of Thomas Hardy on this immersive and inspiring guided tour of Dorchester. Discover how the real streets, buildings, and landscapes of Dorset were transformed into the powerful setting of 'Casterbridge'.
Sun 24th May - 10:30am
and 2 future schedules
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Knit and Natter
Bring your knitting, crochet, sewing or any crafty project and join us for a relaxed morning of stitches and chat!
Mon 25th May - 10:00am
and 2 future schedules
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May Half Term Pirate-Themed Activities
Join us for some half term pirate-themed fun!
Mon 25th May - 10:00am
and 4 future schedules
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Spoken Word Night
Spoken Word Night at The Poet Laureate!
Tue 26th May - 7:00pm
and 5 future schedules
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Modern Jive in Dorchester
Partner Dance Classes for adults in Modern Jive
Tue 26th May - 8:00pm
and 137 future schedules
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From the Stacks – Free lunchtime talk
Free lunchtime talk on selected archival treasures at Dorset History Centre.
Wed 27th May - 12:30pm
and 6 future schedules
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9 to 5 the Musical – a Wessex Musical Theatre production
Clock in for a night of laughter and iconic songs!
Wed 27th May - 7:30pm
and 4 future schedules
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“At the Chapel” Pop Up Bakery at The Kings Arms
Pop along every Thursday 9-2 for scrumptious baked goodies including their signature traditional breads, croissants, savouries, quiches, doughnuts, cruffins, and fabulous cakes.
Thu 28th May - 9:00am
and 32 future schedules
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Crafternoon Tea – Iris Folding
A cosy afternoon of crafting, cake, and company at The Crafty Cuppa, featuring iris folding and homemade scones—£20, booking essential.
Thu 28th May - 12:30pm
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£4 drinks – Thursday Happy Hour
£4 drinks at The Kings Arms! Every Thursday 4pm-7pm.
Thu 28th May - 4:00pm
and 13 future schedules
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Talk – Victorian School Logbooks – Details of everyday school life in rural Dorset.
Dorchester Association For the Research into Local History and Archaeology Event
Thu 28th May - 7:30pm
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The Silence of Snow: The Life of Patrick Hamilton (Mark Farrelly)
Riveting, kinetic solo show portraying one of the great English writers of the inter-war years.
Thu 28th May - 7:30pm
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Thomas Hardy Birthday Weekend 2026
A whole weekend of Hardy-related activities to celebrate Hardy's 186th birthday
Fri 29th May - All day
and 2 future schedules
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Dorset Art Week @ Jubilee Hall
Dorset Art Weeks sees artists’ studios and galleries opening up across the county and welcoming art lovers.
Fri 29th May - All day
and 9 future schedules
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Health Walk
Free Weekly Health Walks at Thorncombe Wood!
Fri 29th May - 10:00am
and 24 future schedules
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The Bloom Project
Take a tiny seedling home to nurture and help us plant a fully-bloomed “twin” in our Community Legacy Planter.
Fri 29th May - 11:00am
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Friday Sessions: DJ & Cocktails
Friday Sessions at The King's Arms
Fri 29th May - 6:00pm
and 30 future schedules
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Thomas Hardy Birthday Lecture: Comedy in Hardy | Mark Damon Chutter
In this Birthday Lecture, the chairman and academic director of the Thomas Hardy Society will explore the use of comedy and comedic timing in Hardy's prose and poetry.
Fri 29th May - 6:00pm
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Dorchester Repair Cafe
The amazing repairers will be waiting for you, ready to tackle your broken clocks, clothes, small appliances and more!
Sat 30th May - 10:00am
and 4 future schedules
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Roman Town House Tours
Join our trained guides on a tour of Roman Town House site and the precious artifacts recovered and now on display at Dorset Museum & Art Gallery.
Sat 30th May - 10:00am
and 8 future schedules
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Moonfleet Crimson Tide – An exciting re-imagining of a classic story
Join local author, Will Adams, for a fun-filled family event with storytelling, songs, and a creative competition inspired by his book, ''Moonfleet Crimson Tide.''
Sat 30th May - 10:15am
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Thomas Hardy Birthday Weekend Walk
Buildings associated with Hardy and the Victorian Borough Gardens
Sat 30th May - 11:00am
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Handcrafted Afternoon Tea: Every Saturday 12-5 at The Kings Arms
Handcrafted afternoon teas at The Kings Arms
Sat 30th May - 12:00pm
and 34 future schedules
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Thomas Hardy Victorian StreetFair
Dorchester's Victorian Street Fair to celebrate the birthday of one of Dorchester's most famous residents, Thomas Hardy. This will be a fun filled day for all the family with an incredible array of Victorian and Thomas Hardy themed activities and demonstrations.
Sun 31st May - 11:00am
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Jun 2026
Pride Book Display at Dorchester Library
This June, we’re is proud to celebrate Pride month with a vibrant display highlighting stories of acceptance, equality, and inclusion.
Mon 1st Jun - All day
and 29 future schedules
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Pride Colours Trail
Join our colourful trail this Pride Month!
Mon 1st Jun - All day
and 29 future schedules
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Pride Booksale at Weldmar Bookshop
Weldmar Bookshop will be stocking a great selection of LGBTQIA+ books for the duration of June.
Mon 1st Jun - All day
and 29 future schedules
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LGBTQIA+ Writers Display
Check out our lovely window display of books from classic and contemporary LGBTQIA+ writers.
Mon 1st Jun - All day
and 29 future schedules
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Pop Up Pride Pop Up Gallery
Come along to see the wonderful Tiny Art Gallery along with other pieces from Dorchester’s LGBTQ+ artists and creatives.
Tue 2nd Jun - 10:00am
and 20 future schedules
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Wise Owls – Social group for over 65’s
Tea, chat & company – join our Over 65’s Social at The Crafty Cuppa.
Wed 3rd Jun - 1:00pm
and 3 future schedules
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Plaza Cinema Pride Screenings
Enjoy two special screenings at the Plaza for pride month!
Wed 3rd Jun - 5:00pm
and 1 future schedules
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In Conversation with Matt Cain MBE
Celebrating stories, resilience, and LGBTQ+ joy!
Wed 3rd Jun - 7:00pm
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Thomas Hardy, Clothing and the Natural World | Professor Emerita Rachel Worth
In this richly illustrated talk, Professor Emerita Rachel Worth will explore the clothing and dress of the rural poor in nineteenth-century England, drawing on a range of sources to illuminate a subject often overlooked in historical study.
Fri 5th Jun - 6:00pm
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Justice on Trial – Fundraising event for Shire Hall Museum
Drama and Dining! A lively and immersive fundraising evening where you will enjoy a delicious summer buffet before stepping into the shoes of an 1830s jury.
Fri 5th Jun - 7:00pm
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From Culture Wars to Conflict – Dorset in the Civil War
A day of talks on current research into Dorset in the early to mid-seventeenth century, with a display of relevant archival documents.
Sat 6th Jun - 9:30am
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Quiet Opening
Explore the Museum and take part in drop-in activities during our Quiet Openings. Especially suitable for visitors with autism or other sensory conditions, and their siblings, parents and carers. The sessions are also suitable for any group or individual who would like to visit our museums and galleries at a quieter time.
Sat 6th Jun - 10:00am
and 5 future schedules
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Art in the Park with Mega Kites
Join us for a creative day in the park where artists of all ages and abilities are invited to paint the beautiful surroundings.
Sat 6th Jun - 10:00am
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Let’s Go Fly! Dorchester Kite Festival
A new festival is coming to Dorchester on Saturday 6th June 2026. Let’s Go Fly! Kite Festival is being hosted on The Great Field between 11 am and 4:30 pm.
Sat 6th Jun - 11:00am
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‘Bohemia in East Chaldon’ by Mark Damon Chutter
A fascinating exploration of the bohemian enclave of writers and artists who made Chaldon Herring their home during the 1920s and 1930s.
Sat 6th Jun - 11:00am
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Proud Poems (Workshop)
Join local queer poet, Naomi Wilcox-Lee for the very first Proud Poems workshop!
Sun 7th Jun - 10:00am
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Dorchester Lions Summerfest 2026
Dorchester Lions present Summerfest 2026!!
Sun 7th Jun - 12:00pm
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Groove & Grill
A new Sunday experience on the terrace at The Kings Arms, the first Sunday of the month.
Sun 7th Jun - 4:00pm
and 3 future schedules
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Love Poundbury “through your lens” The Exhibition
The winning photographs from the Love Poundbury "through your lens" competition
Mon 8th Jun - All day
and 13 future schedules
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“through your lens” – THE EXHIBITION
The winning photographs from the Love Poundbury "through your lens" photography competition will be exhibited for sale by Art at the Duchess, at The Duchess of Cornwall Inn, Poundbury. From 8th until 21st June these images will be on display on the ground and mezzanine floors. Each image may be purchased for a minimum price of £50 and all proceeds will support The Lexi May Trust. Visit the exhibition and pick your favourite and be in with a chance to win a Poundbury Hamper full of Poundbury Good Things.
Mon 8th Jun - All day
and 13 future schedules
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Machine Sewing workshop – Pot holder
Sewing machine beginners class - pot holder
Mon 8th Jun - 10:00am
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Quiz Night @ Tom Browns
Join our popular monthly quiz with Kirsty!
Tue 9th Jun - 7:30pm
and 1 future schedules
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Poetry and Writing Workshop
Unlock Your Creative Voice – Writing Workshop
Wed 10th Jun - 10:30am
and 3 future schedules
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Writing and Poetry Workshop: Exploring the writing of Sylvia Townsend Warner & Valentine Ackland
Sharing and discussing a selection of poetry from Sylvia Townsend-Warner and Valentine Ackland.
Wed 10th Jun - 10:30am
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Dorset County Hospital Mini Pride
We welcome our staff, families, patients and community into their hospital during Pride Month to have fun, ask questions, experience and learn about LGBTQIA+ in a safe space. Highlighting our local community groups such as Space Youth Project and This is Me Dorset helping to provide your essential pride themed items (17th June). Finishing with the fantastic inspired tunes from Vinyl Van (24th June).
Wed 10th Jun - 12:00pm
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Store Tour
Join our Collections Team for an opportunity to explore behind the scenes in Dorset Museum & Art Gallery's Collections Discovery Centre.
Wed 10th Jun - 2:00pm
and 6 future schedules
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Pint & Paint with Pride
Come along for a queer creative drop-in!
Wed 10th Jun - 6:00pm
and 1 future schedules
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Dorset County Hospital Pride Film Nights
We welcome our staff, families, patients and community into their hospital to share LGBTQIA+ themed films.
Thu 11th Jun - 5:30pm
and 1 future schedules
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Cut & Paste for Pride
Celebrating diversity and self-expression through the art of collage.
Fri 12th Jun - 7:00pm
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Treasure! Lost and Found Exhibition
The Treasure! Lost and Found exhibition reveals the stories of objects once treasured, buried for centuries, then rediscovered – celebrating our fascination with uncovering the past.
Sat 13th Jun - All day
and 92 future schedules
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Puddletown Open Gardens
Explore over fifteen open gardens and more in Puddletown!
Sat 13th Jun - 12:00pm
and 1 future schedules
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Fused Glass hanging decoration Workshop
Create beautiful hanging decoration
Sat 13th Jun - 1:00pm
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Sashay & Sing with Ms Cassidy
A night full of laughs, feel good vibes and fabulous fun!
Sat 13th Jun - 9:00pm
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Death by Canapé!
Join the fabulous Faith Eckersall as she proudly launches the second in her hilarious Piddlington Gazette Mysteries series set in Dorset.
Tue 16th Jun - 7:00pm
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Teasel & Skylark’s Great Big (ever-so-slightly) Bookish Quiz Night
A fun, friendly night of quizzy goodness, prizes, silliness and (just a touch of) bookish brilliance, raising money for the fantastic Mid Dorset Mencap in Trinity Street!
Wed 17th Jun - 7:00pm
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The Joy of Decks – Pride Special!
Pride special celebrating queer artists and music that will fill the dance floor.
Thu 18th Jun - 7:30pm
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Armour & Embarkation 2026
Convoy over over 100 WW2 Vehicles coming through the centre of Dorchester!
Sat 20th Jun - Static displays at Brewery Square from morning, convoy arrives after 3pm
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Step Back in Time: Armour & Embarkation 2026
Step back in time: Featuring the armour & embarkation convoy!
Sat 20th Jun - 11:00am
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Pride Walk: Be Queer – Get Outside!
Join fellow LGBTQ+ folk for a ramble to proudly enjoy Dorchester's beautiful countryside.
Sun 21st Jun - 11:00am
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Open Mic Night Celebrating Our Local LGBTQIA+ Community
Join us for a warm and inclusive evening of poetry and spoken word.
Tue 23rd Jun - 7:30pm
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Colten Care Pop Up Choir
Join our residents and staff from our local homes as we 'Pop Up' at The Great Field to perform a selction of songs.
Wed 24th Jun - 2:30pm
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Woodland Wanders
Join Our Ranger-Led Seasonal Strolls!
Thu 25th Jun - 10:15am
and 6 future schedules
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The Pride We Write: Crafting LGBTQIA+ Narratives
Come and explore queer representation in fiction.
Sat 27th Jun - 10:30am
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A Celebration of American Music: Open Rehearsal
We will be performing a wonderful collection of short, tuneful, choral pieces with an American theme in recognition of the 250th anniversary of American Independence.
Sat 27th Jun - 10:30am
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A Celebration of American Music: Concert
We will be performing a wonderful collection of short, tuneful, choral pieces with an American theme in recognition of the 250th anniversary of American Independence.
Sat 27th Jun - 5:30pm
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Maiden Castle Guided Tour
Discover the story of one of Britain's most extraordinary prehistoric landmarks with our Maiden Castle Guided Tour.
Sun 28th Jun - 10:30am
and 1 future schedules
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Treasure: Unlocking the Secrets Beneath our Feet
In this talk, Dr Roger Bland explores the passing of the Treasure Act in 1996 and the impact of the Portable Antiquities Scheme!
Mon 29th Jun - 6:00pm
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Jul 2026
Dorset Archives Trust Summer Gala
All are welcome to join us at the Dorset Archives Trust Summer Gala for 2026
Thu 2nd Jul - 6:00pm
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Dorset Ceramics Market
For ceramic artists, potters and people who love clay!
Sat 11th Jul - 10:00am
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Thomas Hardy Week
The 27th International Thomas Hardy Conference and Festival
Sat 25th Jul - All day
and 7 future schedules
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Hardy’s Women: Double Bill
Best-selling author Paula Byrne followed by Caroline Butler & Dave Townsend of the Mellstock Band
Sat 25th Jul - 8:00pm
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In Harmony With Hardy
An evening of readings, songs, and piano music performed by James Graham
Wed 29th Jul - 7:00pm
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Aug 2026
One World Festival
The Dorset One World Festival is a free local event to celebrate the diversity of cultures in Dorchester through music, dance, food and activities.
Sat 8th Aug - 11:00am
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Dorchester Vegan Market
The Dorchester Vegan Market in the historic Maumbury Rings Roman Amphitheatre
Sun 9th Aug - 10:00am
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Cider Festival
Celebrating the region's finest cider producers, with great food and live music throughout the day.
Sat 15th Aug - 2:00pm
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Festival of Palestinian Culture
Join us for a full day of Palestinian culture in Dorchester's beautiful Borough Gardens.
Sat 22nd Aug - 11:00am
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Bark in the Park
A Family Fun Dog Show on the Great Field in Poundbury supporting The Lexi May Trust
Sun 23rd Aug - 10:00am
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Paint a Pet at Bark in the Park
Come and join the Family Friendly Dog Show and paint a pet or the scene to be "Best in Show".
Sun 23rd Aug - 10:00am
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Anonymous Festival 2026
Free music festival supporting a range of young local musicians, playing live music and DJing.
Mon 31st Aug - 11:00am
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Sep 2026
Why Did Dorset’s Bronze Age Communities Sacrifice Valuable Things?
In this talk, Dr Neil Wilkin explores why people in Bronze Age Dorset deliberately buried valuable objects, often never to retrieve them.
Thu 3rd Sep - 6:00pm
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Dorset County Show
Celebrating Dorset Agriculture, Countryside and rural life. Acting as Dorset’s end of harvest celebration.
Sat 5th Sep - All day
and 1 future schedules
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Oct 2026
The Script’s The Thing!
The Script’s The Thing will take place on 10th and 11th October, and is a celebration of new writing for theatre, TV, film, radio and all performance.
Sat 10th Oct - All day
and 1 future schedules
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Dorchester Literary Festival
Whether you’re interested in fiction, crime, science, history, politics, the natural world, health, music, walking, biography or cosy crime, there will be plenty to tempt you to join us in October.
Sat 17th Oct - All day
and 7 future schedules
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