Get ready for a spectacular spring and summer in Christchurch, a season packed with food, music, family fun, spectacle and community celebration. From dapper motorbike rides to quayside jazz, Christchurch will be the place to be.
Christchurch BID Operations Manager, Louise Berkhauer said “Christchurch has another fun filled events programme incoming for spring and into summer! Hosted by community groups, charitable trusts, local businesses, Christchurch BID and more, this is a culmination of months of local hard work that supports our area. With so much going on it can be challenging to know what’s going on and when. Christchurch BID have created a What’s on in Christchurch guide, which will be distributed to local homes this spring alongside a social media campaign to reach further afield”
Joshua Simons, Co-founder Aviary Hospitality Group, owner of Chicken & Blues restaurants and Flamingo Café Bars, added, “Our team had the opportunity to take the reigns of Christchurch Music Festival and we’re excited to bring a new look, new sound and a new era to Christchurch in 2026.”
Event Highlights (dates & locations):
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride | Christchurch High Street | 17 May
A stylish charity motorcycle ride raising funds for men’s health (Movember). Follow @ChristchurchBID for timing and updates.
Food Fest Local | Christchurch High Street | 23–24 May, 10:00–17:00
Free, family-friendly weekend celebrating brilliant local food, live music and entertainment. More: www.foodfestlocal.com
Christchurch Food Festival | Christchurch Quay | 23–25 May
Top chefs, artisan producers, street food and live entertainment across a buzzing festival weekend. More: christchurchfoodfest.co.uk
Gigs in the Garden | The Red House Museum | 17 May, 21 June, 19 July (12:30–15:30)
Live garden performances. Picnics welcome. More: www.hampshireculture.org.uk/events?location=52#events
Proms in the Bandstand | Christchurch Quay | Selected dates
Hour-long outdoor proms, bring a picnic and enjoy live music. Details: christchurch-tc.gov.uk/council_events
Circus Zyair | Christchurch Quay | 7–11 July
High-flying acrobatics and daredevil stunts for all ages. More: circus-zyair.co.uk
Christchurch Music Festival | Soundtrack Your Summer | Christchurch Quay | 17–19 July
Three days of world-class live music against a stunning waterside backdrop. Tickets: www.christchurchmusicfestival.com
Christchurch River Pageant | Christchurch Quay | 25 July
A colourful parade of decorated boats, canoes, SUPs and homemade rafts along the River Stour. More: christchurchrotary.org.uk/christchurch-river-pageant
Stompin’ on the Quomps | Christchurch Quay | 1 August
A full day and night of smooth jazz — family-friendly and free (donations welcome). Celebrating its 30th year. More: www.stompin.org
Christchurch Carnival | Christchurch Quay | 14–16 August
Three days of free family entertainment, food, performances and a spectacular fireworks finale. Includes a 1.5-mile Sunday street parade. Full schedule: christchurchcarnival.co.uk
Christchurch Rotary | Dinner About Town | 16th September
Christchurch Rotary presents “Dinner About Town”, this brand new dining experience invites guests to enjoy a unique progressive dinner across Christchurch town centre, featuring three courses served in three different restaurants, a welcome reception, and live music throughout the evening. christchurchrotary.org.uk/christchurch-dinner-about-town
The Regent
The Regent is a vibrant cultural multi-purpose venue with an exciting mix of live music, comedy, and local acts on stage, alongside a packed cinema programme of the latest releases.
Catering to a wide array of tastes and age groups, the venue is a beloved destination for both residents and visitors. theregent.co.uk
Christchurch Library
Head to Christchurch Library to enjoy a variety of free (or low cost) Summer activities:
- Treasure hunts
- Lego club Saturdays
- Drop-in craft activities
Find out more, contact the library on 01202 127200 or visit: www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/christchurch-library
Christchurch is ready to welcome visitors for a vibrant season of events, perfect for families, foodies, and music-lovers. Christchurch is the place to be this spring and summer, join the fun, and make unforgettable memories!
For all the details and more information, see our live calendar www.christchurchbid.co.uk/events-calendar
