Wimborne | Posted on January 2nd, 2026 | return to news

Wimborne BID kicks off New Year with packed festival programme

Whether you’re a foodie, folkie, or simply love a celebration, 2026 promises something for everyone, with a range of festivals and host of events.

Grab your diary and make a note of the major festivals and host of cultural events throughout 2026 in the Dorset town of Wimborne Minster.

Discover Wimborne will launch the festival season in April with a month-long programme of over 100 events, many free, including workshops, live music, special promotions, talks and guided walks.

Organised by Wimborne BID with local businesses, it’s all about showcasing the town’s heritage, vibrant entertainment and range of events, choice of shops and eateries.

In May two more festivals will spring up in the town. Gullivers Bookshop has announced the return of its popular Wimborne Literary Festival with a host of literary-led speakers and activities that booklovers are sure to adore. Keep an eye on local press for full programme details and event times. Wimborne’s own annual outdoor festival for families of all ages follows on 29-31 May. Expect family entertainment, live music and fun with competitive ticket pricing.

Wimborne Minster Folk Festival will take place on 12 to 14 June. This iconic annual festival transforms Wimborne’s streets into a lively, colourful extravaganza of Morris dancing and live music plus street fairs and a procession.

September will be the time to tuck into the delicious offerings being served up by Wimborne’s very own food festival. Save the date of Saturday 19 September – and some room in your tummy – as local producers and businesses offer pop-up tastings. Organised by Wimborne BID and sponsored by Dacombes of Wimborne, this gastro celebration also takes over Willow Walk with its popular tasting tent with free cookery demonstrations by top chefs and foodie experts.

Wimborne Green Festival from 10 to 17 October rounds off the line-up with eco-focused talks, activities, and initiatives, organised by Planet Wimborne and supported by Wimborne BID.

Adding to the excitement, Wimborne will proudly celebrate its Town of Culture 2026 status with a programme of extraordinary cultural and community events. A £30,000 grant from the Arts Development Company, match-funded by Wimborne Town Council, will help bring this vision to life, with Wimborne BID contributing business expertise and ideas.

Wimborne BID Manager Tammy Sleet said: “It looks set to be a very exciting year for Wimborne in 2026. As a proactive BID, we will continue to support this thriving town and community with special events that help drive footfall and put Wimborne on the map as a destination town.”

For full details, visit www.wimborne.info and look out for updates in Dorset View and Viewpoint magazines.