The Best Free Events in Dorset for Families – Summer 2025

Looking for fun and affordable ways to entertain the whole family this summer? We know how quickly costs can add up during the school holidays, so we’ve collected a selection of free events in Dorset that are perfect for families. From colourful carnivals and seafront firework displays, to wildlife adventures and outdoor fun, there’s something for everyone – and best of all, they won’t cost you a penny (apart from perhaps parking or a treat or two!). Whether you’re local or enjoying a stay at one of our parks, these free events in Dorset are a great way to make unforgettable summer memories without breaking the bank.

Firework Displays

No matter how many you’ve seen, there’s always something mesmerising about a firework display, and they’re not just an Autumnal activity! Dorset has a number over the Summer:

Weymouth Seafront – 9:30pm on the 28th July and 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th August 2025.
Poole Harbour – 10pm on the 31st July and 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th August 2025.
Bournemouth Beach – 10pm on the 25th July and 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th August.
Swanage Carnival Week – 9:45pm on the 26th and 30th July and 2nd August.
Lyme Regis Carnival Week – 9:30pm on the 1st August 2025.
Wareham Quay – 9:45pm on the 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th August.
Christchurch Carnival – 9:30pm on the 16th August.
West Bay – 10pm on the 17th August after the Torchlight Procession.

Carnival Processions

The classic family summer activity – watching a carnival procession. With dancers, floats, music and fun costumes, there’s lots to see whichever carnival you go to. Many of these carnivals have expanded over the years to include a whole week of fun activities, but we’ve included the main dates of the processions below.

Wareham Carnival – 20th July 2025.
Swanage Carnival – 27th July 2025.
Lyme Regis Carnival – 8pm on the 9th August 2025.
Bridport Carnival – 7pm on the 16th August 2025.

Candle-lit Events and Parades

Taking part in a torchlight parade or candle-lit event is a truly memorable experience and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Torches and candles are available to purchase for small donations, with the money usually going to charity, but it’s possible to join in without, or with your own glowsticks.

Bridport Torchlight Parade – 9pm on the 17th August 2025.
Lyme Regis Torchlight Parade – 9pm on the 2nd August 2025.
Candles On The Cobb, Lyme Regis – 8pm on the 24th August 2025.

Discos and Children’s Parties

If your children love nothing more than to dance, then going to a family-friendly disco may be the perfect way for them to let off steam at the end of the day. We’ve organised these free events at Martin’s Bar & Restaurant at Highlands End.

Storytime Party – 5pm on the 28th July and 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th August 2025.
Family Disco – 6pm on the 31st July and 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th August 2025.

Wildlife, Animals and Natural History

If the weather is nice, getting out and enjoying nature and spending time with animals can be great fun for the whole family. These free events are enjoyable and educational at the same time!

Alpaca Meet & Greet, Highlands End – 10am on the 21st, 23rd, 24th, 28th and 31st July and 4th, 7th, 11th, 14th, 18th, 21st, 22nd and 25th August 2025.
Chesil Wildlife Wander, Wild Chesil Centre – 11:30am on the 28th July and 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th August 2025.
Mapperton Wildings – 6 weeks of themed nature-related activities from the 27th July to the 4th September 2025.

Fetes, Fairs and Festivals

The Summer months are packed with fairs and events. While there are plenty of opportunities to spend money at these kinds of things, it’s completely possible to enjoy soaking up the atmosphere without breaking the bank.

RNLI Raft Race, West Bay – 5pm on the 24th July 2025.
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week – 26th to the 31st July 2025.
West Bay Weekend – 2nd and 3rd August 2025.
Bridport Hat Festival – 6th September 2025.

More Free Activities…

As well as the events we’ve listed above, some of our favourite things to do in Dorset are free already! Here’s some of the easiest ways to have a fun day out for just the price of a car park…

Spend a day at the beach building sandcastles, paddling and looking for fossils.
Go for a walk along the South West Coast Path or inland through the countryside.
Ride bikes along quiet country lanes or on dedicated cycle routes.
Stargaze from a quiet spot and watch the constellations or even a meteor shower!
Visit iconic locations for photos such as Lyme Regis cobb, Portland Olympic Rings viewpoint, Durdle Door or Old Harry Rocks.

Highlands End

Highlands End boasts stunning clifftop views and a 5-star experience. With modern amenities and pristine facilities, this award-winning park delivers breathtaking scenery, serene relaxation, and vibrant entertainment for all.