Family events in Bournemouth provide a wide range of activities and entertainment suitable for all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. These events include seasonal festivals, outdoor fun days, educational workshops, and interactive shows that take place throughout the year. This page covers the types of family events available, where and when they happen, how to attend, and which events suit different age groups.
Types of Family Events in Bournemouth
Bournemouth hosts a variety of family events that cater to diverse interests and seasons. Popular events include outdoor fun days with games and crafts, wildlife and nature shows, festive celebrations, and interactive theatre performances. Many events take place in parks, community centres, and cultural venues across the town.
Outdoor Fun Days and Festivals
Outdoor fun days often feature games, face painting, live music, and food stalls. Muscliff Family Funday is a notable example, held in Muscliff Park with free activities for children and families. These events usually run during school holidays or weekends in spring and summer, providing a chance for families to enjoy the outdoors together.
Wildlife and Educational Shows
Family-friendly wildlife shows, such as Steve Backshall’s Deadly Live! at Bournemouth International Centre, offer interactive experiences with live animals and educational storytelling. These shows are suitable for children aged five and above and typically require ticket booking in advance.
Seasonal and Holiday Events
Bournemouth hosts seasonal events like Halloween crafts and spooky trails at the Russell-Cotes Museum during the October half term. Christmas markets and festive light switch-ons also provide family-friendly entertainment in winter. These events often combine cultural activities with seasonal traditions.
Where Family Events Take Place in Bournemouth
Family events are held at various venues across Bournemouth, each offering different facilities and atmospheres suited to families.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Muscliff Park is a spacious green area ideal for large-scale family fun days, offering playgrounds and open spaces for games. Bournemouth Gardens and Lower Gardens also host seasonal events and family trails, providing easy access from the town centre.
Cultural and Community Venues
The Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) regularly hosts family shows and performances, including wildlife presentations and children’s theatre. Museums like the Russell-Cotes Museum offer craft sessions and themed trails during school holidays, combining education with entertainment.
Seafront and Beach Locations
Some family events take place near the seafront, taking advantage of Bournemouth’s seven miles of sandy beaches. These include beach-themed festivals and activity days, often organised during the summer months and school holidays.
When to Find Family Events in Bournemouth
Family events in Bournemouth are scheduled throughout the year, with peaks during school holidays and weekends.
School Holidays
The spring, summer, and October half-term holidays feature the highest concentration of family events. These include free outdoor fun days, workshops, and performances designed to keep children engaged during their time off school.
Weekends and Bank Holidays
Many family events take place on weekends and bank holidays to accommodate working parents. Events such as the Bournemouth Marathon Festival include family-friendly races and activities, encouraging participation from all age groups.
Seasonal Highlights
Seasonal celebrations such as Halloween and Christmas bring a variety of themed events, including craft workshops, festive markets, and special shows. These events often require advance booking due to popularity.
How to Attend Family Events in Bournemouth
Attending family events in Bournemouth is straightforward, with many events free or low cost and easily accessible by public transport or car.
Booking and Tickets
Some family events, especially shows at the Bournemouth International Centre, require advance ticket purchase. Others, like outdoor fun days and museum activities, are often free or have a small charge for materials. Checking event details on official websites or local listings is recommended.
Transport and Parking
Bournemouth is well served by public transport, with frequent bus routes connecting key venues. Bournemouth railway station provides links from surrounding areas. Car parking is available near major event locations, though spaces may be limited during popular events.
Accessibility and Facilities
Most family event venues offer facilities such as toilets, baby changing areas, and accessible entrances. Parks and outdoor spaces provide play areas and picnic spots. Checking venue information in advance helps ensure a comfortable visit for all family members.
Which Family Events Suit Different Age Groups
Family events in Bournemouth cater to a wide range of ages, from babies to teenagers, with activities tailored accordingly.
Events for Young Children
Events featuring crafts, storytelling, and gentle outdoor games are suitable for children under seven. Museums and parks often provide interactive trails and sessions designed for early years development.
Activities for Older Children and Teens
Older children and teenagers may enjoy wildlife shows, sports activities, and interactive theatre performances. Events with live music, workshops, and hands-on experiences engage this age group effectively.
Inclusive Family Events
Many events welcome all ages and provide activities that families can enjoy together. Outdoor fun days, seasonal festivals, and community celebrations offer opportunities for shared experiences across generations.
Examples of Upcoming Family Events
- Muscliff Family Funday offers free games, crafts, live music, and food stalls in Muscliff Park, suitable for all ages.
- Steve Backshall’s Deadly Live! at Bournemouth International Centre is a family wildlife show featuring live animals and stories.
- Russell-Cotes Museum hosts Halloween crafts and spooky trails during the October half term.
- Bournemouth Marathon Festival includes family-friendly races and spectator activities along the seafront.
For a full list of family-friendly activities and events, see the Things to Do section and the What's On calendar.