One World Festival

Discover Every Culture in Dorchester

Saturday 8th August 2026 | 11am – 4pm | Borough Gardens, Dorchester | FREE Entry

It’s time to expand your taste buds and introduce the whole family to new foods, sounds and cultures from across the globe, all without leaving Dorchester. The annual One World Festival returns this August for a joyful celebration of the cultures that make our town and county so wonderfully diverse, with delights from Ukraine, Syria, the Caribbean, Asia, the Middle East, South America and beyond.

Hosted by the South West Dorset Multicultural Network and Dorchester Town Council, the festival takes over the beautiful Borough Gardens on Saturday 8th August from 11am to 4pm. The event is generously sponsored by Dorchester Town Council, Dorset Council, Poundbury Community Trust, Casterbridge Rotary Club and the South West Dorset Multicultural Network.

Taste dishes from around the world at the bustling Global Food Village, soak up a programme of traditional and modern music and dance from our local communities, and discover something new through hands-on workshops. It’s a day that truly comes alive with colour and culture. Somewhere you can find your next favourite cuisine, pick up a tune or two for your playlist, and celebrate everything that brings our community together.

Best of all? It’s completely free to join. Here’s what to expect at the biggest cultural event of the year in Dorchester.

Tasting Foods From the Caribbean to Asia

Always wanted to try more dishes from around the world? The Global Food Village is not to be missed, and honestly, you’ll be spoilt for choice. A wide range of stalls each serve up something different, from treasured family recipes to traditional favourites representing cultures across the globe.

In previous years, hungry visitors have tucked into Tibetan dumplings, Middle Eastern falafel, mouth-watering Thai food, Italian pizza, Afro-Caribbean jerk chicken and South American burritos. With delectable baklava to finish and a drink from the bar to wash it all down. Whether you’re eager to revisit a beloved favourite or keen to try something completely new, there’ll be plenty to tempt you as you explore the flavours of the world.

Get Immersed in Activities and Workshops

There’s so much more to the One World Festival than food. Throughout the day you can choose from a variety of workshops and activities and you might just leave having discovered a brand-new hobby.

Learn the basics of a new dance in one of the dance intros, try your hand at the beautiful art of henna painting, or get stuck into a basket-weaving workshop. The line-up of activities grows each year, so keep an eye on the South West Dorset Multicultural Network’s Facebook page for the latest additions as they’re announced.

What’s On at the One World Festival?

Beyond the food, drink and workshops, there’s plenty more to enjoy at the One World Festival. Sit back and relax to a vibrant line-up of immersive arts, music and dance performances showcasing our local communities. A programme that, in past years, has featured everything from Ukrainian songs and traditional Syrian and Kurdish music to flamenco and funky reggae that gets everyone on their feet.

Bringing the family? The Kids’ Fun Zone keeps little ones entertained with a bouncy castle, arts and crafts workshops and plenty more, making this a genuinely family-friendly day out for all ages. The full performance programme is announced closer to the date, so it’s well worth following along to see who’s taking to the stage this year.

Explore More Culture in Dorchester

Dorchester is lucky enough to be home to an array of cultures from around the world and you can carry the festival spirit on long after the day itself. The town’s high street and Brewery Square are dotted with eateries serving global flavours, with popular favourites including Italian restaurant O’Pasta Dorchester, Italian delicatessen Mina’s Deli, Asian favourite Wagamama in Brewery Square, and Turkish restaurant Meram Kitchen.

And if you’re keen to discover more about world cultures, there’s even more cultural celebrations to look forward to this summer. The Festival of Palestinian Culture takes place at Borough Gardens, offering a full day of activities, music and events celebrating the vibrant heritage of the Palestinian people. It’s another wonderful chance to learn, connect and experience the rich diversity right here on our doorstep.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the One World Festival in Dorchester?
The One World Festival takes place on Saturday 8th August 2026, from 11:00am until 4:00pm in Borough Gardens, Dorchester.

Where is the One World Festival held?
The festival is held in Borough Gardens, in the centre of Dorchester, Dorset. The gardens are within easy walking distance of the town centre, local car parks and Dorchester’s railway stations.

Is the One World Festival free to attend?
Yes. Entry to the One World Festival is completely free, making it an affordable day out for families, friends and visitors exploring Dorchester.

What can you do at the One World Festival?
Visitors can enjoy international street food, live music, cultural dance performances, arts and crafts, workshops, family activities, a children’s fun zone and entertainment celebrating cultures from around the world.

What food is available at the One World Festival?
The Global Food Village features a wide variety of international cuisine. Previous festivals have included Caribbean, Thai, Tibetan, Middle Eastern, Italian, South American and Afro-Caribbean dishes, alongside desserts and refreshments.

Is the One World Festival suitable for families?
Yes. The festival is designed for all ages and includes a dedicated Kids’ Fun Zone with activities such as arts and crafts, a bouncy castle and family-friendly entertainment throughout the day.

Are there live performances during the festival?
Yes. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy live music, traditional dance and cultural performances from local communities representing countries and cultures from around the world.

Are there workshops at the One World Festival?
Yes. Visitors can take part in hands-on workshops including activities such as dance sessions, henna art and basket weaving. The programme may vary each year.

Who organises the One World Festival?
The festival is organised by the South West Dorset Multicultural Network in partnership with Dorchester Town Council, with support from local sponsors and community organisations.

Is the One World Festival accessible?
Borough Gardens has level pathways and accessible entrances, making much of the festival suitable for wheelchair users, pushchairs and visitors with limited mobility. Visitors should check the event organisers for any specific accessibility information before attending.

Can I bring my dog to the One World Festival?
Dogs are generally welcome in Borough Gardens if kept under control. However, as the festival can become busy with large crowds and food stalls, owners should check the latest event guidance before visiting.

Is there parking near the One World Festival?
Yes. Several public car parks are located within a short walk of Borough Gardens, including parking in Dorchester town centre.

How do I get to the One World Festival by train?
Dorchester has two railway stations – Dorchester South and Dorchester West – both within walking distance of Borough Gardens, making the festival easy to reach by public transport.

What cultures are represented at the One World Festival?
The festival celebrates the diverse communities of Dorset, with cultures represented from countries including Ukraine, Syria, across the Caribbean, Asia, the Middle East, South America and many more.

What else can I do while visiting Dorchester?
Many visitors combine the festival with exploring Dorchester’s independent shops, museums, cafés and restaurants. Brewery Square and the town centre also offer a wide range of places to eat and drink, including international cuisine.

Are there restaurants serving international food in Dorchester?
Yes. Dorchester has a growing range of international restaurants and cafés, including Italian, Turkish and Asian cuisine, making it easy to continue exploring global flavours after the festival.

When is the performance programme announced?
The full programme of performances and workshops is usually announced closer to the festival date. Visitors can follow the South West Dorset Multicultural Network for the latest updates.

Why should I visit the One World Festival?
The One World Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience music, food, art and traditions from cultures around the world in one place. It’s one of Dorchester’s most colourful community events and provides a welcoming, family-friendly day out for visitors of all ages.

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