IT’S beginning to look a lot like Christmas.  Here’s our round-up of some of the Christmas lights switch-ons, carnivals and markets taking place in the build-up to the big day.

This list will be updated, so to let us know about any events taking place just email digital@bournemouthecho.co.uk with details of what’s happening, where and when and we’ll add it below!

You can also upload your events to our online listing - it's completely free! 

Head on over to our Christmas section for latest stories and more information about upcoming events and details on our Toy Appeal. 

Friday, December 19

Sing carols in the candlelight at Wimborne’s Cornmarket, accompanied by a local band. Starts at 6pm.

Saturday, December 20

Animal rescue group B.L.I.Z.E will be holding a festive fundraiser at Hamworthy Liberal Club. There will be a disco, face painting, stalls and a visit from Father Christmas himself. Takes place between 5pm and 8pm, tickets are available at £3. Email blizerescue@gmail.com. 

A Mini Makers craft session for children aged five to six is taking place at Walford Mill Crafts in Wimborne on Saturday December 20 from 10.30am-11.30am. Children can have a go at creating Christmas creatures and help find some festive friends. Cost is £5 per person. For information and booking call 01202 841400.

Sunday, December 21

Get fit for this year’s 5k Santa Extravaganza when hundreds of Santas chase the Christmas pudding along Weymouth Beach to raise funds for The British Heart Foundation. Fancy dress is mandatory, to generate more funds for the charity. You can purchase your Santa suit online at bustinskin.com. Registration is at 10am in the Pavilion and the run starts at 11am.

Ashley Cross is set to be transformed into a winter wonderland with a Gluwein bar, roasted chestnuts and even a snowdome. Christmas in the Park, in aid of Lewis-Manning Hospice, will offer a host of entertainment for families from 2pm to 9pm. Santa is also set to make a special visit during the event, and children from a local performing arts school will be singing carols to add to the festive spirit.

And as the finale to Boscombe's Colourful Countdown to Christmas, there will be a lantern parade starting from the Sovereign Centre at 3pm. It will loop through the Royal Arcade and High Street and then back to the Sovereign Centre. Youngsters will be in fancy dress alongside other performers.

 

Thursday, December 25

Fancy a dip in the sea on Christmas Day? The White Christmas Dip is now in its 7th year and brings together seasonal swimmers in aid of Macmillan Caring Locally. Participants will start at Boscombe Pier and finish, well, in the sea! Last year 300 dippers took part and raised £25,000. The organisers are hoping to reach their target of 500 swimmers this year, so get involved!

Friday, December 26

If you’re not able to make it to the White Christmas Dip, or you just fancy another go, then you can join in the annual Boxing Day Dip at Swanage. Registration begins at 10.30am for the dip at 11.15am. Fancy dress is optional and there will also be tea, coffee and bacon rolls and a raffle draw.

We’ve tried to include as many free events as possible but have also added some paid-for events which you may be interested in, so please check prices before you go.