1. HEAD to Poole Quay this weekend for the Poole Blues Festival which runs from Friday through to Sunday. This year there are 26 acts performing in 21 venues plus the Harbour Blues Cruise will set sail on the Sunday and the Friday. There will also be blues bands and entertainment across various venues. For more information, visit the Poole Blues Festival Facebook page or the Poole Blues Festival website.

2. The UK’s largest Gin & Rum Festival tour is coming to Bournemouth this weekend on Friday and Saturday. Get ready to be spoilt for choice with over 60 different gins and 60 different rums. Admission fee includes a goody bag and guide book. See bhlive.co.uk for more details.

3. Forty years ago, on April 1 in 1979, Kate Bush performed at the Poole Arts Centre, a warm-up gig to kick off what was to be one of the most memorable tours in music history so it is fitting that Cloudbusting bring their two hour show of Kate Bush’s songs to Poole Arts Centre (now known as Poole Lighthouse), where it all started.The 5-piece band were named by BBC One as one of the most authentic tributes in the world. Cloudbusting – The Music of Kate Bush is at Lighthouse on Saturday, September 7 at 7.30pm. To book call, 01202 280000.

4. BBC Music Magazine’s Personality of the Year, violinist Tasmin Little, will perform at the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s annual Benevolent Fund concert at Lighthouse Poole on Sunday.

The internationally-renowned violinist will perform Bruch’s violin concerto and the orchestra will be performing Verdi’s The Force of Destiny Overture and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No.4 under the baton of David Hill, BSO associate conductor.

This annual concert is the main source of income for the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Benevolent Fund. See visit BSOlive.com or visit or call the box office on 01202 280000

5. This autumn the grounds of Corfe Castle will be the setting for a new sculpture exhibition showcasing the work of local artists starting this Saturday. As you explore the castle, discover beautiful artworks in a unique setting, inspired by the story of Corfe Castle and Purbeck. Dogs welcome on leads. Normal admission fees apply, National Trust members free entry.

6. Puttin’ on the Ritz is a spectacular stage production that arrives at Bournemouth Pavilion on Sunday for a three night run. The show features the most famous songs of the Golden Age of Hollywood live on stage performed by dancers direct from London’s West End, together with breathtaking costumes and stunning musical arrangements. The show runs from Sunday, September 8 to Tuesday, September 10.

7. Head down to the Dorset County Show as the two-day spectacular returns on Saturday and Sunday. Open from 8.30am and held on the Dorchester Showground, the annual event celebrates the rural and agricultural roots of the county. Take a stroll through avenues of trade stalls selling the finest local produce and enjoy exciting displays in the main ring, which this year will host ex-world championship motocross rider Jason Smyth. Competitions in homecraft and horticulture, plus livestock and showjumping, will entertain visitors of all ages, alongside rides, food stalls, and bars. Poultry, rabbits and alpacas will also be on show, with falconry displays and scurry racing.Tickets are £18 on the gate, with children under 16 going free.