For ten days each October, Bournemouth turns into an open-air stage as its autumn arts festival brings creativity to the seafront, gardens and town centre. Expect a lively mix of theatre, dance, music and visual art that spills out of venues and into public spaces.
Around the festival
Much of the programme takes place in and around the Lower Gardens, where after-dark light installations and projections transform the trees and lawns into glowing walkways. By day there are street performances, pop-up sculptures and hands-on family workshops dotted across the town.
For families
The festival leans into activities the whole family can join, from making and crafting sessions to interactive trails that lead you between installations. It is an easy, low-cost day out, with plenty to see simply by wandering between the gardens and the seafront.
Planning your visit
Because so much of the event is outdoors and free, it works well as a spontaneous afternoon or evening out. Layer up for the season, then combine a visit with a walk down to Bournemouth Pier or a coffee in town. Evening light trails are best experienced after dusk, so time your arrival to catch the installations at their most atmospheric.