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Save up to 40% in our Summer Holiday Sale! Learn More

The Best Summer Festivals in Dorset, Hampshire & the New Forest 2026

From music festivals and food celebrations to carnivals and family days out, discover the best summer events taking place across Dorset, Hampshire and the New Forest during your holiday.

Shorefield Holidays

Summer is one of the best times to visit the South Coast, with an incredible calendar of festivals, live music, food celebrations, family events and traditional carnivals taking place across Dorset, Hampshire and the New Forest. Whether you're staying for a weekend break or a longer summer holiday, there's plenty happening just a short drive from our holiday parks.

Three women sitting on a grassy hillside, facing a large crowd at an outdoor event. One woman wears a sequined top in red, white, and blue, while the others wear casual clothing. Colorful festival tents and trees are visible in the background.

Here's our guide to some of the biggest and best events taking place this summer.

June Events

Tankfest Friday 26 – Sunday 28 June 2026

One of the world's largest military vehicle events returns to Dorset, bringing together historic tanks, thrilling arena displays and fascinating exhibitions. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike.

Milford-on-Sea Music Festival Friday 26 – Sunday 28 June 2026

This much-loved coastal festival fills the village with live music, entertainment and a fantastic community atmosphere. Expect performances from local artists, food stalls and plenty of seaside charm.

DorsetFest Friday 26 – Saturday 27 June 2026

A vibrant celebration of music, food and family entertainment, DorsetFest offers something for all ages with live performances, activities and a lively festival atmosphere.

A large tank with a prominent cannon is displayed in an indoor exhibition space. People are gathered nearby, observing the tank's details. The environment features large windows that allow natural light to illuminate the scene.
July Events

Lymington Seafood Festival Friday 10 – Sunday 12 July 2026

Set against the stunning backdrop of Lymington's waterfront, this festival showcases some of the finest seafood from the South Coast. Enjoy fresh local produce, cooking demonstrations and live entertainment throughout the weekend.

Christchurch Music Festival Friday 17 – Sunday 19 July 2026

Bringing together talented musicians and performers, Christchurch Music Festival offers a fantastic weekend of live music in a beautiful riverside setting.

Bournemouth Reggae Weekender Friday 24 – Sunday 26 July 2026

Feel the summer vibes at this popular reggae festival featuring live bands, DJs and a relaxed atmosphere just moments from Bournemouth's famous beaches.

Swanage Carnival Saturday 25 July – Saturday 1 August 2026

One of the South Coast's most popular summer celebrations, Swanage Carnival features parades, fireworks, live entertainment, family activities and spectacular coastal scenery.

New Forest & Hampshire County Show Tuesday 28 – Thursday 30 July 2026

A highlight of the rural events calendar, the show celebrates farming, food, countryside traditions and family entertainment with livestock displays, demonstrations and local produce.

Poole Harbour Music Festival Friday 31 July – Sunday 2 August 2026

Set in a stunning waterside location, this festival combines great live music with one of the most picturesque settings on the South Coast.

Four majestic Clydesdale horses are harnessed to a bright red cart, standing proudly in a grassy field. The horses are adorned with decorative harnesses and medals, and a driver in formal attire guides the team. In the background, several people and event tents are visible under a cloudy sky.
August Events

Great Dorset Chilli Festival Saturday 1 – Sunday 2 August 2026

Spice lovers won't want to miss this fiery celebration featuring chilli-themed food, cooking demonstrations, competitions and family entertainment.

Beaulieu Supercar Weekend Saturday 1 – Sunday 2 August 2026

See some of the world's most impressive supercars up close at this exciting automotive event, perfect for car enthusiasts of all ages.

Stompin' on the Quomps Saturday 1 August 2026

This popular music event in Christchurch brings together live performances and community spirit in a relaxed outdoor setting.

New Forest Fairy Festival Saturday 8 – Sunday 9 August 2026

Step into a magical world of fairies, fantasy and folklore. With costumes, workshops, entertainment and family activities, it's a truly unique New Forest experience.

Swanage Lifeboat Week Saturday 8 – Saturday 15 August 2026

A week-long celebration supporting the RNLI, featuring demonstrations, family entertainment, competitions and plenty of community spirit.

Christchurch Carnival Friday 14 – Sunday 16 August 2026

Expect colourful parades, live entertainment, family fun and a lively atmosphere throughout the town centre.

New Forest Food Festival Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 August 2026

Discover the very best local food and drink from across the region, with artisan producers, street food, cooking demonstrations and plenty of opportunities to sample delicious treats.

A vibrant blue Lamborghini Aventador cruising down a country road, with a crowd of spectators watching from the sidelines. Sunlight filters through the trees, highlighting the car's sleek design.
September Events

Swanage Folk Festival Friday 11 – Sunday 13 September 2026

Round off the festival season with a celebration of traditional and contemporary folk music. Performances take place throughout Swanage, creating a welcoming atmosphere for music lovers of all ages.

A vibrant parade scene along a seaside promenade. A group of performers in white outfits with colorful accents marches joyfully, waving their arms. Crowds of spectators line the street, watching the event against a backdrop of the beach and cliffs.
Sizzling Summer Holidays – Save Up To 40%

If all these fantastic festivals and events have inspired you to plan a South Coast getaway, now is the perfect time to book with our Sizzling Summer Holidays Sale.

Save up to 40% on all remaining Summer peak and off-peak holidays across our holiday parks. Whether you're looking for family adventures, a relaxing hot tub retreat, seaside escapes, or a last-minute summer break, you'll find the perfect holiday at an unbeatable price.

Why Book Your Summer Holiday Now?
  • Save up to 40% on selected summer stays

  • Enjoy easy access to the region's biggest festivals, carnivals and events

  • Choose from a range of accommodation options to suit every budget

  • Secure your preferred dates before they sell out

  • Explore the beautiful beaches, countryside and attractions of Dorset, Hampshire and the New Forest

  • Take advantage of great value summer holiday deals while availability lasts

PLUS... You Could Win £2,000 in Holiday Vouchers!

When you book your summer getaway, you'll also be entered for the chance to win up to £2,000 in holiday vouchers, giving you even more reasons to start planning your next adventure.

With popular events taking place throughout the summer and accommodation filling quickly, there's never been a better time to secure your holiday. Book now, save up to 40%, and look forward to a summer packed with unforgettable experiences, amazing local events and quality time with family and friends.

Don't miss out – your perfect South Coast summer holiday starts here.

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