This week includes a bumper package of events taking place across Dorset. Here's our pick of some of the highlights.

1. Enjoy a steam train ride with Father Christmas at Swanage railway. Tickets for the Santa special include a present for every child and seasonal refreshments for adults. Advance booking essential. (See swanagerailway.co.uk)

2. You can also see Santa, his elves, and his faithful reindeer Rudolph, in their cosy grotto at Adventureland at Hurn. The park also features the indoor Wild Thing play centre.

3. Don’t miss a chance to see veteran rocker Chris Rea performing live at the BIC on Tuesday night. Shed Seven will also be performing at Bournemouth’s O2 Academy.

4. Explore Christmas at Kingston Lacy near Wimborne through the eyes of the Bankes’ children. Afterwards take a winter walk through the garden’s light display.

5. Enjoy a Christmas choral treat with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra at Lighthouse, Poole at 7.30pm on Wednesday with the spectacular Handel’s Messiah. (To book visit bsolive.com)

6. Bourne2Sing, a Christmas-themed male voice choir concert takes place at 7.30pm on Thursday at St Peter’s Church in Ashley Cross, Parkstone. Call 01258 837071.

7. Showaddywaddy will be rocking back the clock at Lighthouse, Poole on Friday night.

8. The Christmas Spectacular at the Regent Centre in Christchurch which starts on Saturday and runs until Christmas Eve is guaranteed to fill you with the festive spirit.

9. And the festive fun continues at the BIC on Sunday with That’ll Be The Day Christmas special.

10. The fourth Metropole Market, takes place in Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouthfrom 10am to 4pm on Sunday. This month’s theme is Christmas Candyland.