Festive favourites return to Bournemouth Pavilion

News 3 November 2026

News Story

From big band classics and festive concerts to ice skating and New Year celebrations, Bournemouth Pavilion and Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) are inviting visitors to make the most of the festive season with a packed programme of entertainment for all ages.

Inspired by the success of previous seasonal line-ups, this year's programme offers a variety of events and live entertainment to celebrate with family, friends, and colleagues.

The festivities begin at Bournemouth Pavilion with Tony Hadley: The Christmas Big Band Tour (Monday 16 November 2026). The former Spandau Ballet frontman brings his acclaimed live show to Bournemouth, performing swing classics, festive favourites, and much-loved hits in a spectacular evening of entertainment.

The celebrations continue with the Royal Marines Christmas Spectacular(Thursday 26 November 2026), where audiences can enjoy an uplifting mix of military marches, big band favourites, and seasonal showstoppers from His Majesty's Royal Marines.

Returning once again is the venue's much-loved Christmas Cracker Concert (Thursday 17 December 2026), a free-to-attend community event featuring festive music, traditional carols, and opportunities for audiences to sing along.

Last but certainly not least, audiences can step into a whole new world with Bournemouth Pavilion’s magical pantomime, *Aladdin (Saturday 5 December 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027).

Starring Coronation Street actor James Cartwright as the wicked Abanazar and showcasing the powerhouse vocals of Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Kristel Herrera as Princess Jasmine, the production also features beloved panto favourites Noel Brodie and Jamie Steen as Wishee Washee and Widow Twankey. With laughter, spectacular effects and plenty of festive fun, it's the perfect family treat this Christmas, with two relaxed performances and a captioned performance also available.

As the year draws to a close, guests can welcome 2027 in style at the New Year's Eve Gala Dinner Dance 2026 (Thursday 31 December 2026). Combining fine dining, live entertainment, and dancing, the annual event promises a memorable way to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.

The celebrations continue just up the road at Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), with festive entertainment for music, dance, and family audiences alike. Audiences can enjoy Christmas classics like That'll Be Christmas(Sunday 20 December 2026), and Anton Du Beke: Anton At Christmas(Monday 21 December 2026), both festive spectaculars packed with seasonal songs, laughter, and nostalgia, guaranteed to get audiences into the Christmas spirit.

Meanwhile, Cool Coast Ice Rink, the South Coast's largest seasonal indoor ice rink, will return to Bournemouth International Centre for another winter season from Saturday 28 November 2026-Sunday 21 February 2027. Visitors can look forward to another of skating sessions, festive outings, and winter fun in the heart of Bournemouth.

From festive concerts and live music to ice skating and New Year celebrations, Bournemouth Pavilion and Bournemouth International Centre are set to deliver unforgettable seasonal experiences this winter.

Bournemouth Pavilion and Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is operated by registered charity and social enterprise BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.

On behalf of BH Live, Steve Turner, Director of Venues, said:

"There's something truly special about coming together to enjoy live entertainment during the festive season. Whether you're looking for a festive night out with friends, family, or colleagues, Bournemouth Pavilion and Bournemouth International Centre offer a fantastic variety of experiences. We look forward to welcoming visitors from across the region to celebrate with us.


For more information about What’s On and to book tickets, visit;

  • Bournemouth Pavilion – bournemouthpavilion.co.uk
  • Bournemouth International Centre – bic.co.uk
  • Cool Coast Ice Rink – coolcoasticerink.co.uk

For group bookings and rates, contact [email protected].