FESTIVITIES took place all over Dorset this weekend with hundreds of residents attending Christmas events.

Residents across Dorset got into the Christmas spirit this weekend as families and friends turned out in force to celebrate some fun festive events.

On Saturday, hundreds gathered in Christchurch to watch the magical Yuletide Festival unveil for the first time, celebrating the town's history.

The Yuletide Festival began in the Saxon Square at 11am, before crowds were treated to a festive Carol Service outside the Christchurch Baptist Church at 3pm.

The Yuletide parade began at 5pm, and a theatrical procession took off from Church Street and travelled down the high street.

It featured Christchurch-based Gobbledegook and their entourage of more than 20 performers, as well as Mad4Dance, Highcliffe Charity Players, and Funky Little Choir, all performing as they move through the town.

Bournemouth Echo:

On Saturday, residents also gathered in the town centre, getting in the spirit of Christmas as the start of festivities in Wimborne Minster began with the switching on of the town Christmas lights.

Starting from 11am people came down to enjoy entertainment from Dorset Youth Marching Band, Jaimie Jambo, Susie Kimber, Soul Party, Blue Moon Boys, Big Night Out and Love Soul Choir.

The lights came on at 4:30pm, before the militia fired their display at 5:30pm at Minster Green.

Bournemouth Echo:

On Sunday morning a swarm of runners dressed a Santa took to Bournemouth Pier to take part in a 5k to raise money for Julia's House. 

Runners headed off at 10am on Sunday, November 27, to take part in the fundraising event, held in partnership with Bournemouth Christmas Market, raising vital money to help support the families of local, seriously ill children cared for by Julia’s House.

The Santa Dash is a fun way to welcome in the festive season and support your local children’s hospice charity. 

Harry Redknapp, charity patron, was also supporting the event, urging people to join in. 

The runners headed down to Boscombe pier then back around to Bournemouth Pier and finished the day with a free mulled wine at the Alpine Lodge and hot chocolate for the children.