Christmas is not too far away now, and with the festive season in its early stages, there are several events planned in the BCP area for it.

Whilst Bournemouth's Christmas market and Christmas Tree Wonderland will attract plenty of people, there are some activities outside of that for people to enjoy.

Here is a round-up of some of the various Christmas events and activities taking place around Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole over the next few weeks.

Christmas 2024 events in the BCP area

Bournemouth Christmas Cracker Carol Concert

The Pavilion Theatre will be hosting its Christmas Cracker Carol Concert on Wednesday, December 18.

Starting at 2.30pm, entry is free and visitors will be invited to sing along with the carols.

The Pavilion website adds: "Michael Wooldridge returns this year at the theatre’s Compton Organ and will be accompanied by local musician Ian Carter at the Steinway Grand Piano as well as members of the Big Little Theatre School Choir."

Cool Coast Ice Rink

The largest indoor ice skating rink on the South Coast will return to the Bournemouth International Centre between November 30, 2024 and February 23, 2025.

Its website adds: "At Cool Coast Ice Rink, you can enjoy a funfilled ice skating experience regardless of the weather outside. With our indoor ice rink, we’ve always got you covered, literally!"

Ice skating session times run from 9am until 8.45pm (times vary) seven days a week, with sessions lasting one hour.

Tickets can be booked on the website here.

Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail

Poole BID will have its usual Maritime Light Trail to enjoy up until January 1, 2025, around its High Street area.

Some of the displays include a whale, a galleon and a giant anchor.

The Poole Tourism website adds: "The trail is free to follow, and there is no one place to start, although you might find a stroll from Falkland Square to the Quay to be a plan to try and take in all the features of this year’s trail!"

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Highcliffe Castle Christmas Tree Festival

Between Sunday, December 1 and Sunday, December 22, Highcliffe Castle will be hosting a Christmas Tree Festival.

The website adds: "The decorated trees will take pride of place in our State Rooms. Younger visitors can enjoy Christmas storytelling and a festive trail which will incorporate the trees contributed by local businesses, charities and individuals to create a delightful experience for all."

Alongside that, tickets include entry to the Castle, entry to the Festival, children’s trail and the new art exhibition ‘The Wonder of Winter’.

Tickets can be booked for the event on the website here.

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Christchurch Carols in the Square

Christchurch Baptist Church Band will be leading a festive singalong in Saxon Square on Saturday, December 14.

This will be taking place between 4.30pm and 5.30pm with attendees encouraged to help light up the square.

Homemade lanterns (LED lit), LED light-up wands and clear umbrellas adorned with Christmas decor and fairy lights are all welcomed.

Mulled wine and mince pies will also be available to purchase on the night.