What’s on this Christmas in Dorchester 

The question really is, what isn’t happening in Dorchester this Christmas? It certainly feels as though the town is transforming into a festive wonderland, with Christmas markets, an ice-skating rink, seasonal shows, parades, visits from Santa, and so much more. There’s something for everyone this holiday season, perfect for bringing the whole family together. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the exciting events taking place across Dorchester to help you plan the ultimate festive day out this Christmas.

A Festive Escape in The Great Big Escape

There’s been a mishap at the Mistletoe Bakery. A rogue gingerbread man is on the loose! Head to The Great Big Escape in Dorchester to tackle the festive escape room, solve gingerbread-themed puzzles and fix the bakery’s magic machine before Santa’s cookie shipment leaves. Suitable for all ages, it’s a fun family activity, especially alongside Brewery Square’s other festive attractions.

Christmas is Brewery Square

Speaking of Brewery Square, Dorchester’s unique shopping and leisure complex never fails to host a spectacular Christmas event, and this year is no exception. The centre kicked off the festive season with its big Christmas lights switch-on on 29th November, drawing crowds to enjoy a dazzling display of lights and creativity.

Throughout the Christmas holidays, Brewery Square will continue to delight visitors with festive treats, including the popular ice-skating rink, open until 3rd January.

With a wide selection of restaurants, cafés and bars around the Square, you can make an entire evening of it. Enjoy a festive meal or a warming drink, do some late-night Christmas shopping, or simply wander and soak up the magical holiday atmosphere.

Shire Hall Christmas Celebrations

For the chance to meet the man himself, Santa will be visiting Shire Hall Museum on 20th, 22nd, and 23rd December for a morning of breakfast and carol singing, and each little visitor will receive a special festive gift.

If you prefer a more relaxed afternoon treat, Shire Hall is also hosting Christmas Afternoon Tea, running throughout December up to the 23rd. Be sure to visit Shire Hall’s website to book your tickets and secure your spot for these festive delights.

Carols in Borough Gardens

Join the community for a free carol concert in Borough Gardens, featuring live music, sing-along classics and carol books for everyone. Enjoy a cosy festive evening with mulled wine and snacks, and help brighten the season by creating lanterns from recycled materials for a stunning festive light display.

The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness (Squashbox Theatre)

Looking for a unique Christmas experience? Head over to the Squashbox Theatre on 20th December to witness the festive show, The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness, which is packed with everything Christmassy. From fairy lights, sleigh bells and carols to mischievous elves, a fridge-dwelling snowman and the world’s worst Christmas jumper!

Enjoy puppets, songs, quizzes, comedy and festive fun while exploring Yuletide traditions, the first Christmas tree, and even a bit of holiday science. A delightfully over-stuffed stocking of seasonal surprises for all ages! Book your tickets here.

Visit Dorchester This Christmas

Dorchester has never failed to be the hub of festivities in Dorset, with the town pulling out all stops this year in bringing the festive spirit to town. That’s not all that’s happening! Many cafes, shops, restaurants and small independent retailers are hosting their own festivities, from workshops to Christmas parties and other celebrations. Make sure to check out the Discover Dorchester website to see what’s on in Dorchester this Christmas or follow us on the Visit Dorchester Facebook page.

FAQs: What’s on This Christmas in Dorchester

What Christmas events are happening in Dorchester this year?
Dorchester is hosting a wide range of Christmas events including festive markets, an ice-skating rink, escape room experiences, theatre shows, carol concerts, Santa visits and family-friendly activities throughout December.

Is Dorchester a good place to visit at Christmas?
Yes. Dorchester becomes a festive hub each Christmas, offering seasonal attractions, community events, family entertainment, shopping, food and drink across the town centre.

What festive activities are available for families in Dorchester?
Family-friendly activities include ice skating at Brewery Square, Santa visits at Shire Hall, festive escape rooms at The Great Big Escape, carols in Borough Gardens and Christmas theatre shows suitable for all ages.

Where can I go ice skating in Dorchester at Christmas?
The popular Brewery Square ice-skating rink is open throughout the festive season and runs until 3rd January, making it a highlight for visitors.

What is the Christmas escape room in Dorchester?
The Great Big Escape hosts a festive escape room featuring a gingerbread-themed storyline where participants solve puzzles to save Santa’s cookie shipment. It’s suitable for all ages.

Are there Santa events in Dorchester?
Yes. Santa visits Shire Hall Museum on 20th, 22nd and 23rd December, with breakfast, carol singing and festive gifts for children.

Can I enjoy Christmas food and drink in Dorchester?
Absolutely. Brewery Square and the town centre offer a wide choice of restaurants, cafés and bars serving festive meals, warming drinks and seasonal treats.

Are there free Christmas events in Dorchester?
Yes. Events such as Carols in Borough Gardens are free to attend and include live music, community singing and festive activities.

What Christmas shows are on in Dorchester?
Squashbox Theatre presents The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness on 20th December, featuring puppets, comedy, music and festive storytelling for all ages.

Where can I find a full list of Christmas events in Dorchester?
For the latest festive events, workshops and celebrations, visit the Discover Dorchester website.

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