Christchurch Carnival Big Weekend
Schedule
Fri, 14 Aug, 2026 at 04:00 pm to Sun, 16 Aug, 2026 at 04:00 pm
UTC+01:00Location
Christchurch Quay, Christchurch, BH23 1, United Kingdom | Christchurch, EN
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SAVE THE DATE for this year’s FREE Christchurch Carnival big weekend! Organised by Christchurch Carnival in partnership with Hartstone by Aster - the brand new curated collection of luxury thoughtfully curated new build homes, for rent, shared ownership and open market sale, nestled in the very heart of Christchurch Dorset. Explore their offering at www.Hartstonebyaster.co.uk for more detailsThis year Christchurch Carnival has not one but TWO amazing headline tribute acts (soon to be announced) set to entertain this summer. Hailed as one of the South's oldest community festivals, the carnival will showcase a programme of live music, theatrical treats, a spectacular firework display set across the water and attractions to entertain all the family.
Taking place from 14th to 16th August the FREE to attend three-day festival, located on the bank of Christchurch harbour takes over Christchurch Quay with Fun Fair rides, stalls and local food vendors.
Alongside the two juggernaut tribute headline acts, the Saturday line-up also includes performances from local bands; Persona, Underground Badgers and One Word. Back by popular demand, DJ-iiing (Mark Ingram) will once again perform an energy blasting disco set for all the family. With dance performances, on and off the stage, throughout the whole weekend.
Away from the main stage, family entertainment will conjure nostalgic memories of seaside holidays with Punch & Judy performances by Professor Gary Wilson, circus skills workshops, come and have-a-go arts and craft, famous characters and many other free activities to entertain all day long.
Bringing the party to the streets of Christchurch the Sunday street parade provides a fitting finale to the Carnival weekend. The 1.5 mile route which winds through the town, showcases the very best of the local community. Filled with surprise performances, live bands and unforgettable characters. Bringing iconic figures from TV, film and video games to life, C-Star cosplay, one of the largest not-for-profit groups of cosplayers in the South, are once again partnering with Christchurch Carnival. Live music, dance, entertainment and local vendors continue on the Quay, combining into a town wide celebration.
For over 115 years Christchurch Carnival has been the setting of memorable moments, helping to bring thousands of people and families together. Organised by an entirely volunteer team, Christchurch Carnival are immensely proud of the role they play in positively promoting the town, its people and their communities.
Let Christchurch surprise you this Summer, come and experience Christchurch in a completely different light.
Christchurch Carnival is accessible to all and free to attend
THIS IS A FREE EVENT - NO TICKETS REQUIRED
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HOW TO GET HERE:
Location Christchurch Quay, bh231BU
What:Three:Words - WEEDY : GOLD : MUDDY
MORE BUS:
The 1A, 1B, 1C, 33, (Bournemouth) 24 (Fairmile) X1, X2 (New Milton, Lymington, Highcliffe) and 125 (Burley, Ringwood, Winkton) buses will get you into Christchurch. Get off at The High Street, follow directions to The Priory Church, follow the road around onto the Quay.
CAR PARKING:
Priory Car Park - Quay Rd, Christchurch BH23 1BY, What:Three:Words - JUMP : GAMES : CLOTH
Wick Lane Car Park - Wick Lane, Christchurch BH23 1HT, What:Three:Words - APRON : NOISY : VOTES
Mayors Mead Car Park - Wick Lane, Christchurch BH23 1NY, What:Three:Words - TOWN : MINT : RADIO
Willow Way Car Park - Willow Way, Christchurch BH23 1NU, What:Three:Words - TREES : FUND : COOL
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Where is it happening?
Christchurch Quay, Christchurch, BH23 1, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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