Hello Poole!

Christmas is arriving this weekend as Poole flips the switch on its festive lights and welcomes Father Christmas back to town. With the big parade starting at Lighthouse and ending on the Quay, plus markets, trails, films, crafts and cosy seasonal events across Poole and beyond, there’s plenty to get you feeling merry already.

Here’s everything happening locally this week — whether you want twinkling lights, handmade gifts, a nostalgic film night or just an excuse to wrap up warm and explore.

Enjoy!

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🎄 Christmas Magic Comes to Poole This Weekend

Poole is officially flipping the switch on its festive season this weekend, with the Christmas lights launch and a Santa Parade. The parade begins at Lighthouse Poole at 4pm, winding through town to finish on Poole Quay in a spectacular finale, complete with fire performance and seasonal entertainment.

From 22 November through 1 January, the High Street, Quay and town centre will be bathed in light: look out for a towering 14-metre illuminated Christmas tree, giant glowing “POOLE” letters, and a ceiling of twinkling lights overhead. Throughout the season, live brass bands and choirs will perform every weekend, filling the streets with carols and festive cheer.

Families can join in several special festive activities: children can post letters to Santa in a magical post box at the newly restored Poole Museum, plus there is Story telling with Santa at Scaplen’s Court. There’s also a window display competition, giving everyone a chance to vote for their favourite decorated storefront.

Here’s a brief look at some of the other Christmas events happening:

• Upton Country Park — Santa Paws (meet Santa with your dogs), Ice & Snow Trail, Christmas Market (6–7 December), wreath-making workshops (12–13 December) and a Santa Experience (20–21 December).

• Bournemouth — Christmas in the Square returns, with a huge Christmas Market, Glow Golf, snow-themed light gardens, and the Alpine Lodge Bar for seasonal treats.

• Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum — Victorian Christmas trails, candlelit evenings, wine & music nights, and Father Christmas visits (18 Nov – 3 Jan).

There’s lots more going on to be found at Discover Christmas in Poole.

🤸 Historic Success for Poole Gymnastics & Trampolining Club

What an incredible return from Poole’s own Gymnastics & Trampolining Club at the World Championships in Pamplona! The club brought home seven medals, including a gold in Women’s Synchro for Hikaru Mori, and multiple silvers and bronzes from Bryony Page, Kirsty Way and Izzy Songhurst .

Special mention to Millie Harvey, a Bournemouth University scholar, who made history by placing seventh in the first-ever Mixed Synchro event, a first for the sport.

Congratulations to Head coach Brian Camp and the rest of the coaching team for helping these athletes shine on the world stage. Poole is incredibly proud.

🏆 BAFTA for Local Animation Studio Blue Zoo

Three Bournemouth University alumni are set to receive a BAFTA Special Award next month for their work with Blue Zoo Animation Studio, now one of the UK’s largest makers of children’s and family content. Founders Tom Box, Adam Shaw and Oli Hyatt began sharing a studio during their studies, and now their studio produces beloved series like Pip and Posy, Paddington, Alphablocks and Numberblocks.

Oli Hyatt called the recognition “a huge pat on the back” for all the staff and for the wider animation community. Tom Box added that their time at BU “gave us the tools, the network, and the confidence to dream big.”

BAFTA’s Chief Executive, Jane Millichip, praised the studio for “innovation with impact,” celebrating their commitment to diversity and education through imaginative storytelling.

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🗳 What Should Poole’s New Town Council Do First? Here’s What You Told Us 

When we shared the news that Poole will have its own Town Council from April 2026, we asked you what its top priority should be. A huge thank you to everyone that responded, drumroll please…here’s the results: 

Quick Recap 
The decision to create new town councils for Bournemouth, Poole and Broadstone was confirmed last month after a tense BCP Council debate. Poole’s council will have 15 wards and 21 councillors, with elections in May 2026. 

Whether you supported the idea or not, it’s happening – and the first councillors will shape how the council operates and what it focuses on. So, what do PooleNow readers think should come first? 

The Results 

Big-ticket projects topped the list, with many calling for urgent improvements to Poole Bus Station. One reader wrote: 

“Poole bus station is dirty, disgusting… It gives a very poor impression of Poole to visitors.” 

Others want the council to take a broad approach: 

“Start with small, visible projects to improve quality of life in Poole. Get local communities involved as much as possible.” 

Events were another popular choice, with readers keen to see Poole Quay buzzing year-round: 

“Poole Quay needs far more support, especially in autumn and winter.” 

 Creative Ideas from You 

Some readers had bold suggestions under “I have a better idea…” including: 

• Public toilets on the Quay – “There’s only one cubicle near Orchard Street. Visitors shouldn’t have to rely on pubs and restaurants.” 

• Participatory budgeting – “Ask residents for costed projects and let the public vote online.” 

• Boost Poole’s identity – “We need to stand out, celebrate our heritage, and make sure Poole isn’t just seen as a suburb of Bournemouth.” 

What’s Next? 

While 15% of respondents said the council should focus on minimising costs, the majority want action, from fixing Poole’s tired infrastructure to creating events that bring people together. 

The message is clear: Poole deserves investment, pride and a strong identity. With elections coming in May 2026, now’s the time to think about who you want representing you and what changes matter most. Maybe you want to run for the council yourself!

What did you think of our results? Have you got ideas for big projects that could work in Poole? What type of events would you like to see? Just reply to our email and let us know!

3 Local stories you might have missed

1. Citizen science tackles Dorset's invisible river pollution - BBC News

2. BCP welcomes new suspension powers – Bournemouth One

3. Twenty-four hour cycle for local charities – Bournemouth One

This week’s header picture was taken in Delph Woods, Broadstone. The Castleman Trailway runs alongside it, but do you know the answer to this week’s trivia question?

🎄 Two Festive Events at Shanty Spirit Distillery, Poole

If you’re looking for something special by the water this season, Shanty Spirit Distillery in Poole has two can’t-miss events lined up.

Coastal Cocktails & Handmade Jewellery – Thursday 20 November, 5–9pm
Step into the log-burner-warmed yard for an evening of coastal-inspired cocktails and artisan jewellery. Meet local maker Elly Harvey, browse their unique silver and gold pieces, and sip Shanty Spirit’s botanical vodka or spiced rum stirred into seasonal cocktails.

Sandbanks Cru x Shanty Spirit Christmas Wine Tasting – Thursday 4 December, 6–10pm
Get a head start on your festive celebrations with a Christmas wine tasting hosted by Sandbanks Cru and Shanty Spirit. Sample over 20 wines perfect for the holiday table, paired with locally prepared nibbles. Book

Shanty Spirit Distillery is based at Arthur Bray Yard, West Quay Road.

What’s on this week in (and around) Poole

Multiple Days

Little Robin Red Vest, Lighthouse Poole, 22 Nov–14 Dec
Family-friendly Christmas show by Filskit Theatre, based on Jan Fearnley’s beloved story.

Highcliffe Castle Christmas Market, 22 - 23 November
The popular Christmas Market returns with over 40 local traders, festive treats, and decorated State Rooms.

The Opportunists, Gallery Upstairs, Upton Country Park, 10am–4pm Thursday onwards
Eight Dorset artists exhibiting work in a fully accessible gallery. Free entry.

Tuesday

Antarctica: In the Footsteps of Shackleton, Lilliput Sailing Club, 7:30pm
Talk by Andy Beharrell covering his expedition to Antarctica and historic Shackleton routes. Tickets £3/£6. Book here

Poole Plugged and Unplugged, Portsmouth Hoy, 8pm
Acoustic and electric jam night; free drink for performers.

The Good Quiz, The Goods Yard
Put on your thinking caps, gather your teammates and take part in the no pen, no paper, NO CHEATING, speed quiz!

Wednesday

Meet Maritime Expert Tom Cousins, Poole Museum, 10:30am–12:30pm
A rare chance to chat with Maritime Archaeology expert Tom Cousins and explore artefacts from beneath Poole Bay up close. No booking needed — just drop in.

Team Pics: Galaxy Quest – Cert PG, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
Curated monthly film screenings featuring films you don’t often see in cinemas, with special introductions from the team. Tickets from £10.95.

Terje Isungset Ice Quartet, Lighthouse Poole, 7:45pm
Be transported by the extraordinary, ethereal sounds of ice drums, ice horns, and more. Tickets from £22.

Zoe Schwarz Bluez Party, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 8:30–10:30pm
Live blues from local favourites Zoe Schwarz Bluez Party. Free entry.

Thursday

Griff Rhys Jones: The Cat’s Pyjamas, Lighthouse Poole, 7:45pm
Griff shares funny observations and comic stories from his new stand-up show. Tickets from £26.50.

Matt Richardson: Brash, Lighthouse Poole, 8pm
High-energy comedy from the TV presenter and stand-up star. Tickets from £17.

Skinny Malinkys TACO Thursday, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 5–9pm
Tacos, margaritas, and Mexican lagers — first come, first served!

Coastal Cocktails & Handmade Jewellery, Shanty Spirit Distillery, 5–9pm
Step into the log-burner-warmed yard for an evening of coastal-inspired cocktails and artisan jewellery.

The Acoustic Connection Live Music, The Cow, Ashley Cross, 7pm
Monthly live music showcase with some of the area’s best musicians. Free entry.

Friday

Maximum Rhythm ‘N’ Blues with The Manfreds, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
Original Manfred Mann members Paul Jones and Tom McGuinness return with this acclaimed show. Tickets from £39.05.

Oconee Ball, Portsmouth Hoy, 9pm
Toe-tapping transatlantic music blending Americana, folk, bluegrass and more.

Cutting Edge Live Music, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 9–11pm
High-energy live tunes to kick off your weekend.

The Wise Guys, Tap & Grape, Broadstone, 9pm
A high-energy covers and party band spanning four decades of hits.

Saturday

Christmas Pottery Painting Day, The Power House, Hamworthy, 10am–2pm
Festive pottery painting, drinks included; pottery payable on the day from £14. Tickets £5.

Festive Harbour Cruise, Coastal Cruises, 11:30am,
Enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie on a scenic harbour cruise.

Discover Christmas in Poole Launch & Santa Parade, Lighthouse to Poole Quay, 4pm
Kick off the festive season with a parade, live choirs, and a fire performance on the Quay.

Diverse Abilities Gala Ball, Lighthouse Poole, 6pm
A glamorous night supporting children and adults with physical and learning disabilities.

Handmade Country Christmas Fayre, Honkytonk Collective, Hamworthy, 10am onwards
Crafts, demonstrations, and festive fun. Free entry.

Canford Heath Christmas Fair, Canford Heath Community Centre, 10am onwards
Gifts, crafts, and refreshments, with proceeds to Amelia’s Rainbow children’s charity.

Live Music – Curveball, The Goods Yard, Broadstone, 9pm
Back for another night of live music and fun.

Ghost Hunt Events, Merley House, Wimborne, 8pm–2am
Participate in an overnight paranormal investigation. Tickets £49. Book here

Skint, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 9–11pm
Live tunes to enjoy your Saturday night.

Sunday

The Baytones, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 4–6pm
Afternoon live music with one of the area’s favourite bands.

Bake Sauna – Pop-up Harbour Sauna, Hamworthy Park
A wood-fired sauna experience by the harbour with optional cold plunge and swims at high tide. Take the plunge!

Monday

Pier Presents: An Evening with Pictish Trail, Patch, Bobby’s Bournemouth, 7:30pm
Scottish indie-folk hero Johnny Lynch performs live in an intimate venue.

Pub Quiz Night – Bermuda Triangle Pub, 7.30–10.30pm
£3 entry includes quiz and bar snacks. Friendly fun to start the week.

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That’s it! See you next week!