Events & Entertainment, Poole | Posted on January 8th, 2026 | return to news

Poole vintage festival to take a gap year in 2026

The organisers of Poole Goes Vintage have announced a one-year pause on the popular vintage festival.

An annual celebration of music and vintage fashion will not take place this year.

For the past few years, Poole Goes Vintage has entertained visitors to Poole Quay and the town centre as the area steps back in time to celebrate the culture of previous generations.

Unfortunately, the team behind this popular summer event has announced that the festival will take a planned break in 2026, with the intention to return in 2027.

Delivered by award-winning community event specialists Stir Events CIC, Poole Goes Vintage has become a highlight of Dorset’s summer calendar — drawing thousands each year to the area.

However, despite extensive efforts throughout 2025 to secure financial backing, Stir Events CIC has made the difficult decision to postpone the 2026 edition due to a lack of confirmed sponsorship support.

Mandy Polkey, managing director of Stir Events CIC, said: “We know this will come as a disappointment to many. “We’ve contacted as many local and regional businesses as possible, and while there’s been great enthusiasm for the event itself, we recognise that the ongoing cost-of-living pressures and economic uncertainty have understandably made it harder for many companies to commit to sponsorship at this time. “We’re incredibly grateful to Poole BID, who have supported the event in recent years and helped us bring so much joy to the town. Their backing has been invaluable, and we thank them wholeheartedly.”

The team is planning to regroup, refocus and rebuild over the coming months, with the aim of returning in 2027 with a refreshed model for sponsorship and community engagement.

“This isn’t a goodbye,” added Mandy. “It’s a pause with purpose. We’re as passionate as ever about bringing people together through creativity and community celebration, and we’re already laying the groundwork for Poole Goes Vintage 2027. If you’re a business, individual or organisation who’d like to be part of that story — please get in touch.”

To find out more or offer your support, visit www.eventsbystir.com.