Published on Tuesday 12 December 2023
Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland and Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival, organised and managed by BCP Council, both return in 2023 providing spectacular illuminations and fun for all the family.
Christchurch is also looking festive with atmospheric light displays throughout the town centre and down to the Quay.
The local BIDs (Business Improvement Districts) have also been working hard to organise festive events, decorations and experiences across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.
Councillor Millie Earl, Deputy Leader of BCP Council and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities, said:
“There is so much to do across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole this year, from beautiful light trails in all three town centres, to pantos, choir concerts and brilliant Christmas Markets.
“It’s fantastic that so much is free, and residents can also take advantage of great travel deals with our friends at Morebus and Beryl.
“On behalf of all my colleagues at BCP Council, I hope you have a fun, relaxing Christmas and New Year.”
Wherever you are based, look at the below tips for fun-filled activities taking place across the conurbation this festive season.
Bournemouth
In Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland is illuminating the Lower Gardens until 1 January 2024, featuring twinkling trees, a giant Father Christmas, a new animated tunnel and a ceiling of light.
Festivities continue at the open air SKATE Ice Rink overlooking the Lower Gardens’ twinkling lights, or indoors at Bournemouth International Centre’s Cool Coast Ice Rink. You can then enjoy a mulled wine and some tasty treats while browsing the festive wares at the Christmas Market in the Square.
Step back in time and enjoy a Victorian Christmas at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, or challenge friends and family to 18 entertaining holes at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf, with the winner buying a round of warming hot chocolate from the Prom Café next door!
Enjoy some apres-ski entertainment at Picnic on the Piste near Westover Road, then get ready to boo the wicked queen in the Pavilion’s pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
The Westbourne Christmas Festival is always a delight with late night Thursday shopping and roving Christmas Carollers, while the Grade II Westbourne Arcade looks enchanting in all its festive finery. There is also plenty of Christmas cheer and gift shopping ideas to be found in Southbourne and Boscombe.
Christchurch
Residents and visitors to Christchurch can enjoy captivating light displays across the town - from the deer in the roundabout to the magical Convent and Riverside walk that takes you to the bandstand on the Quomps. Further illuminations can be found along Bargates, with more fabulous lights decked along the high street.
At Highcliffe Castle you can enjoy another enchanting Victorian Christmas, crafting authentic 19th Century crackers, or exploring the historic house on an indoor festive trail.
The Big Christchurch Bauble Hunt, organised by the BID, is well underway - if you find a bauble in one of the town centre’s businesses take a selfie, tag @christchurchbid and you’ll be entered into a prize competition!
Win afternoon tea at The Captain’s Club by entering the Christchurch Christmas Wreath Competition, while The Elf on the Shelf Hunt is guaranteed fun - you could even win over £100 in prizes from local Christchurch businesses.
Poole
Poole’s nautical heritage is highlighted in the free Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail that runs through the town from Lighthouse to Poole Quay until 2 January 2024.
Catch regular open air Choir concerts organised by the Poole BID or grab a ticket to Aladdin, Lighthouse Poole’s 2023 pantomime showing until 31 December.
Alternatively pull on your big coat and experience the fairytale Christmas Trail that takes you through the magnificent grounds of Upton Country Park where you can also indulge in a delicious Festive Afternoon Tea.