Things to do in Bournemouth this new year weekend

Here’s a roundup of some of the events taking place this weekend and into New Year's Day.

1. NYE party at Ludo Lounge

Ludo Lounge (Image: Google Maps)

Ludo Lounge in Southbourne will be leading the countdown to 2024 with its family friendly New Year's Eve party between 3pm and 5pm on Sunday.

Attendees can enjoy entertainment and games, plus lots of bubbles with The Lovely Bubbly Show.

A fancy dress competition will also give guests a chance to let their creativity shine.

As the new year draws in, Ludo will lead a countdown with bubbles – soda water and apple juice – for the children.

To get involved, visit Ludo Lounge at 34 Southbourne Grove, or contact the venue via email, phone or Facebook.

2. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Pantomime

Bournemouth Pavilion (Image: BH Live)

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs pantomime is at the Bournemouth Pavilion on both Saturday and Sunday.

In one of the greatest magical pantomimes ever told, poor Snow White is doomed to live unhappily ever after with her horrid stepmother, the Wicked Queen.

In true rags-to-riches style, Snow White manages, with the help of her madcap friend Muddles, to meet a handsome Prince and make her dreams come true.

Presented by Martin Dodd for UK Productions in association with Bournemouth Pavilion, this production is the ultimate treat for the family this new year.

Tickets are available on the Bournemouth Pavilion website.

3. Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is offering a more traditional celebrational this new year.

The halls of the historic house are decked with boughs of holly and other truly Victorian decorative delights.

Families can also enjoy a festively themed trail, and musicians playing within the museum.

Christmas at Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum has been running since November 21, but will continue this new year weekend between 10am and 5pm.

Admission can be pre-booked via the Russell-Cotes website or purchased on the door.

4. Christmas Tree Wonderland and Christmas Market

Christmas Tree Wonderland (Image: Richard Crease)

A stroll around Christmas Tree Wonderland is another great way to spend the new year weekend.

The spectacle of glittering trees and festive displays trails through the Lower Gardens in Bournemouth town centre.

This year’s wonderland features a number of new additions, including a tunnel of lights at the entrance of the gardens, and the Santa Express display – a miniature train ride for families and children.

Christmas Tree Wonderland is free to visit, and will run until January 1.

5. Live music at Picnic on the Piste

Picnic on the Piste in Bournemouth (Image: Daily Echo)

A host of live music performances at Picnic on the Piste in Bournemouth are set to lift spirits this new year.

Stages at the outdoor café will feature four different artists across the weekend.

On Saturday at 1pm, Picnic on the Piste will welcome Saxophonist Alex Rimell, followed by Max Elmore at 6.30pm.

On Sunday, there will be a performance by Lainey Brooke at 1pm, and Lenny Sharp at 2.15pm.

There will also be a firth performance from Harry Bassett at 1pm on New Year’s Day.

The events are free to attend.

6. Poole Bath Tub Race

Poole Bath Tub Race (Image: Richard Crease)

Poole’s wackiest race featuring bathtubs and handmade vessels is returning to the Quay as part of New Year’s celebrations.

The event, organised by Poole Harbour Commissioners and BCP Tourism, has been taking place for over 40 years and attracts teams decked out in fancy dress.

This year’s race will kick off at 10.30am on January 1, 2024, but crews are encouraged to arrive at the launch point in Ferry Road between 9.30am and 10.15am for registration.

Each year the race raises money for charitable causes with 2024’s race fundraising for the RNLI.

For more information visit the ‘Poole’s New Year’s Day Bath Race & Classic Cars on the Quay’ on the Poole Tourism website.