Christmas and New Year in Poole

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Make the most of Christmas and New Year in Poole with winter walks, magical meetings with Santa, cosy stays, festive parties and even bath tub races!

Whether meeting family and friends for a special break or helping Santa fulfil all those Christmas lists, Poole is packed with ways to get you feeling festive.

From festive boat rides to farm visits and in his own woodland cabin at Upton Country Park, you will be spoilt for choice on special ways to Father Christmas.

Returning for the third year is the Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail which takes place from Saturday 23 November 2024 until Wednesday 1 January 2025.

Please consider your travel in advance. Poole is easily accessible by train, bus, bike or on foot. 

WHAT'S ON:

Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail starts off the Christmas festivities on 23 November 2024. Connecting the Dolphin Shopping Centre, High Street and Poole Quay, there will be huge Christmas trees, giant anchors, tall ships and twinkling canopies of light to walk under. Best of all, it's completely FREE to visit.

Christmas Choirs will be performing at various locations on Saturdays during November and December. 23 November (launch event) 4.25pm to 6.20pm. 30 November from 11am to 1.40pm. 7 December from 12pm to 1.40pm. 14 December from 12pm to 1.40pm. 21 December from 1pm til 1.40pm.

Why not see the Light Festival from the water on a Festive Harbour Cruise? Between 30 November and 24 December you can take a 30 minute boat cruise from Poole Quay (available on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings).

Brass Band Festive Performances will be entertaining shoppers on Sundays from 12pm til 2pm on 1 December at Falkland Square outside the Dolphin Shopping Centre, 8 December outside Kings Head pub / Poole Museum, 15 December at Amity Square on the High Street, and 22 December at Kingland Crescent outside the Dolphin Shopping Centre.

Children will also love to meet Father Christmas on a Sail With Santa boat trip around Poole Harbour, available on selected dates between 7 and 24 December.

Sailing every Friday and Saturday night from 6 to 21 December, join a 3 hour Christmas Party Cruise around Poole Harbour, including a welcome drink of Mulled Wine, 2 course festive menu as well as a DJ and dancefloor.

Oh no he didn't! Don't miss the best Pantomime of the season - Sleeping Beauty - at The Lighthouse from 12 December 2024 until 5 January 2025..

The BSO (Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra) will be performing a variety of shows at The Lighthouse, Poole's Centre for the Arts. The Lighthouse will also be showing various festive films and shows for all ages. 

Clear your head with Poole's New Year's Day Bath Tub Race where locals launch their seaworthy (or not!) vessels and race to the finish line as well-wishers cheer from the Quayside. Expect plenty of sabotage and scallywags at this popular Poole tradition.

Don't miss the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra's New Years Day Viennese Gala at The Lighthouse from 3pm.

SHOPPING:

Browsing for the perfect gift has never been easier, with plenty of comfort, choice and retail favourites at the indoor Dolphin Shopping Centre. Explore Poole High Street and Poole Quay for a wide range of independents for a truly unique present. Take a break at one of the restaurants, bars and cafes, perfect for hard working shoppers to have a festive time-out treat.

FESTIVE FEASTS:

From Christmas parties to Christmas Day dining, Poole's restaurants, pubs and cafes make the most of abundant local produce to create taste sensations. With heart-warming favourites and sumptuous award-winning fine dining on offer one thing is sure - you will be tempted, after all 'tis the season to enjoy!

CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA:

With gorgeous hotel breaks and tailored Christmas stays, you will find the perfect place to stay in Poole. Taking time out for some well-earned relaxation or ready for a party, Christmas on the coast will clear the head, raise the spirits and make your celebration effortless.

For more information, visit Poole Tourist Information Centre on Poole Quay or call 01202 128888.