Weymouth is set to sparkle this Christmas as We Are Weymouth and Weymouth Town Council brings a month of festive events to the town – from an Elf World Record attempt and Steampunk Yuletide celebrations to artisan markets, carols and live music.
Saturday 29th November – ELF WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT AND CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH-ON
Back by popular demand, Weymouth will once again attempt to break the Elf World Record as hundreds of elves fill the town center for a day of festive fun. The town needs over 1762 elves to break the world record – come and see if we can do it!
From 9am to 12pm, workshops will help visitors get “elf-ready” with hat-making, ear crafting, collar design and face-painting.
At 12pm, participants can register at Weymouth Pavilion to receive their wristbands and be officially counted, with a photo opportunity at 1pm.
The celebrations continue with Dorset’s Largest Elf Parade from 1.15pm to 2pm, filling the streets with singing elves and bells, led by Stilt walking elves and Santa in his sleigh.
From 2pm to 6pm, the main stage in New Bond Street will come alive with performances from local choirs, dance groups, and live bands including ‘Under the Carousel’ and The Wilkinsons’ and a brand-new Xmas song created for the town by Du Kane, all alongside panto stars, naughty elves, and street entertainers.
At 5pm, the Mayor, the winner of the Primary Times competition and the panto cast will officially switch on the town’s Christmas lights, Sleigh and giant Elf, followed by live music from ‘The Hooked’ to get everyone dancing into the evening.
Throughout the festive season, families can follow the Weymouth Elf Trail, with prizes, vouchers, and tickets up for grabs, and take part in voting for the Christmas Sparkle Window Competition as local businesses compete for the title of best-dressed window.
5th to 7th December – STEAMPUNK YULETIDE WEEKEND
In partnership with The Ministry of Steampunk South, Weymouth hosts a weekend of Steampunk celebrations and spectacular entertainment. Take a step into the magical and mechanical and see Weymouth transform into a world of wonder, a truly unique take on Christmas festivities and fun for the whole family.
Friday 7pm to 11pm – Soiree at Weymouth Drama club featuring live music, poetry, burlesque and more.
Saturday & Sunday 10am to 4pm – Steampunk Yuletide Market at the Nothe Fort with unique gifts, fashion and artisan traders (free entry for those dressed as Steampunks). As well as a wonderful steampunk exhibition curated from year 2 art student at Coastland College.
Live Entertainment throughout the weekend including national acts: Kitten Von Mew, The Cogkneys, The Brass Brothers, GurdyBirdy, The Anti Poet, Teapot Racing, Flaming Headcase, A unique Steampunk Time machine, Steam engines, and more.
Saturday 3:30pm – The Steampunk Promenade departs from Hope Square to the Carousel.
Saturday 5pm to 6pm – Carols by the Coast by the Christmas tree in New Bond Street. Hosted by the Mayor of Weymouth and featuring the Salvation Army Band.
Saturday 8pm – The Dolmen Yule ball plus Live music, food and drink in a vast array of venues across the town.
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13th & 14th December – A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS WEEKEND
Christmas is just around the corner, and new to Weymouth’s South Harbourside is an artisan market, the perfect place to find locally made and sourced gifts! Join us from 12 PM to 6 PM for a festive day filled with live music and seasonal cheer.
We’re also excited to introduce a brand-new Bavarian pop-up bar, created by Deadwalk Designs and making its debut in Hope Square. Inspired by traditional German markets, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy a glass (or two!) of mulled wine.
Soak up the atmosphere as local dancers perform and indulge in delicious festive fare, it’s the ultimate way to enjoy the holiday season!
Saturday 13 December
4pm: Enjoy a performance by the Rock Choir in Hope Square, followed by live music to get you in the festive spirit. Perfect for those heading out to evening parties or exploring the town’s live entertainment scene.
12 to 3pm: Step into the Interactive Nativity at St Mary’s Church – a heartwarming, hands-on experience for all ages.
Sunday 14 December
2pm: Traditional Morris Dancing brings festive cheer to the streets.
4pm: Seasonal tunes from the Salvation Army Brass Band, followed by local bands playing Christmas classics – the ideal backdrop as you browse for last-minute gifts.
20th and 21st DECEMBER – SANTA WEEKEND
Saturday 20th December – All aboard the brand-new, FREE ‘Elf Express’!
Climb aboard at Hope Square or outside M&S on the Esplanade and enjoy a festive ride with the Christmas elves, filled with lights, music, and laughter.
Santa will be making special appearances throughout the town, so keep an eye out for a chance to meet him.
The Elf Express runs for one day only, from 10am to 4pm, with proceeds supporting the Will Mackaness Trust.
Santa letter writing will also be taking place all day at The Bridge Fairtrade Shop – a perfect stop for little ones to share their Christmas wishes.
Sunday 21st December – Chase the Pudding – Weymouth’s Festive Fun Run
Get ready to dash, laugh, and make a difference! This December, join Chase the Pudding – a 5km festive fun run (or walk) along Weymouth Beach, raising funds for the Will Mackaness Trust. For younger runners, the 2km Chase the Elf offers big smiles for little legs. Every entry and donation helps support local young people with mental health, education, and life-changing opportunities. Grab your Santa suit and be part of a Weymouth Christmas tradition that’s full of fun, community spirit, and festive cheer.
Christmas Day 25 December – Traditional Weymouth Harbour Swim
It’s all down to Weymouth Harbourside during the morning for Weymouth’s annual Christmas Day Harbour Swim organised by Weymouth and Portland Lions Club. Both sides of the harbour will be packed with thousands of spectators as usual cheering on hundreds of brave swimmers as they race across the harbour. Definitely something not to be missed
Mayor of Weymouth, Cllr Caroline Nickinson, said: “Thanks to the wonderful partnership between We Are Weymouth and Weymouth Town Council, Christmas in Weymouth is set to be bigger and brighter than ever before. There are so many highlights to come, and I’m looking forward to welcoming as many people as possible to join us for the Christmas Lights Switch On. It’s at 5pm on Saturday 29th November around the Christmas tree in New Bond Street and should be a wonderful spectacle as hundreds of elves from the elf parade join us to bring a smile to everyone’s faces.
I’m hosting Carols By The Coast on Saturday 6th December, also from 5pm around the tree in New Bond Street. Come and sing some festive tunes accompanied by the Salvation Army Band, and take advantage of free parking in Dorset Council town centre car parks throughout the day.”
Dawn Rondeau-Irvine, Chief Operations Officer at We Are Weymouth, comments: “Weymouth’s Christmas events have become a highlight of the year for the whole county, bringing families, businesses and visitors together to celebrate the season in true seaside style. From our Elf World Record attempt to the magical Steampunk weekend, and the Elf express there’s something for everyone – and plenty of reasons to visit Weymouth this Christmas.
We’re proud to work in partnership with Weymouth Town Council and the local business community to bring these incredible festive events to life. Together, we’re creating experiences that not only kickstart the Christmas season but also encourage visitors and residents alike to explore, shop, and celebrate in Weymouth. It’s all about showcasing our town’s charm and supporting local businesses while spreading holiday cheer.”
For more details and updates visit: https://weareweymouth.co.uk/christmas-events-2025/
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