Find events in Dorset, from village fêtes and jumble sales to the county’s biggest shows, alongside theatre, live music, exhibitions, markets, talks, walks and family days out. The Dorset Life What’s On calendar brings together things to do across the county, with dates, locations and details to help you plan.

Hosting an event in Dorset? Add it to the calendar for free and share it with Dorset Life readers.

Please note: inclusion in the online calendar does not guarantee inclusion in the magazine, though a selection of events is featured each month.

  • All Things Shaftesbury with Cllr. Derek Beer

    Shaftesbury Library Bell Street, Shaftesbury

    Cllr. Derek Beer will be holding a community drop-in information and guidance session on all things Shaftesbury, from social wellbeing and loneliness to housing and highways, and to hear other […]

    Free
  • Wimborne Community Centre Artisan Makers Market

    Wimborne Community Centre 41 - 44 King Street, Wimborne

    At our Artisan Makers Markets, we welcome an array of local, talented artists and crafts people. Come along, browse and buy some of their amazing pieces. Enjoy something from our […]

    Free
  • Father Christmas at 1855 Sturminster Newton

    1855 Building Old Market Cross, Sturminster Newton

    Experience the enchantment of a Winter Wonderland with a personal visit to Father Christmas at 1855 Sturminster Newton. This festive season, create a memorable adventure for your child, children, or […]

    Free
  • Choral Eucharist

    St Peter's Church Dorchester 26 High East Street, Dorchester

    You are warmly invited to our monthly, cathedral-style service of Choral Evensong on Saturday 25th November at 4.30pm in St Peter’s Church, Dorchester. The music marks 400 years since Thomas […]

    Free
  • Careers and Coffee – Apprenticeships 2.0

    The Exchange, Sturminster Newton Sturminster Newton

    Did you know there are 600 different apprenticeship pathways? With the changing economic landscape, more people are now turning to apprenticeships as their pathway to work. Enjoy a free coffee […]

    Free
  • Children’s Christmas Crafts

    Shaftesbury Library Bell Street, Shaftesbury

    Children’s Christmas Crafts and Activities at Shaftesbury Library! Join Charlie for a fun-filled morning of Christmas songs, games and crafts. Get into the festive spirit and have your chance to […]

    Free
  • Festive Fun at Woodlands Village Hall

    Woodlands Village Hall Verwood Road, Woodlands

    Arrive at any point • Try your hand at festive crafts • Join in with singing to live music • Listen to seasonal stories • Enjoy mince pies and mulled […]

    Free
  • Advent Carol Service

    St Peter's Church Dorchester 26 High East Street, Dorchester

    We are delighted that University Music Chamber Choir (formed from singers from Bournemouth University and Arts University Bournemouth) will be providing the music for our Advent Carol Service on Saturday […]

    Free
  • Christmas Tree Festival

    Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary's Church, Sturminster Marshall on Sat 9th & Sun 10th December 10 am to 4pm. Beautifully decorated trees dedicated to charities. Children's activities. Toy service […]

    Free
  • Children’s Christmas Angels Craft Activity

    Shaftesbury Library Bell Street, Shaftesbury

    Make and personalise your own beautiful Christmas angels to take home. Christmas colouring will be available for younger children. Booking essential via Eventbrite or please speak to library staff. Shaftesbury […]

    Free
  • In terra pax – a programme of choral music for Christmas

    St Ambrose Church West Cliff Road, Bournemouth

    University Music Choir and Orchestra present a programme of choral music for Christmas on Sunday 10th December at 4.30pm in St Ambrose Church, Westbourne (BH4 8BE). Enjoy performances of Finzi’s […]

    £15
  • Reminiscence afternoon

    Shaftesbury Library Bell Street, Shaftesbury

    Reminiscence afternoon Talk about favourite presents we have received in the past and share ideas about gifts that we can make ourselves. Tea and festive cakes will be served. Shaftesbury […]

    Free