Free Events

An exhibition by young artists The Art Room Charity offers art as therapy to children and young people aged 5-15 who are having serious difficulties and may be at risk of exclusion from school. They use art to raise their self esteem, confidence and independence and help them cope with their challenges and all come …

Tower abseil and Teddy bear hot air ballooning Brave volunteers (including The Rector, Sue Booys, and many other familiar faces) will abseil down the 100 foot tower to raise money for the Festival charities. Come and cheer them on! You can support our brave abseilers by donating using our justgiving.com site.  Please donate now! Buy …

RhythmZone Andy from RhythmZone will be running fun and engaging African Hand Drumming Workshops for all ages. Participants will learn basic technique and traditional West African rhythm patterns. We will also learn signals to lead the group, play musical games and develop our own musical pieces.

All are welcome to a fun session of circus skills in the tent. Spin some plates to work up an appetite for Sunday lunch or to wear off energy with juggling before going to see the Festival performance matinee.

Continuing the annual tradition Dorchester’s a capella group will welcome May in by singing from the Abbey tower and then in the Abbey. Proceeds from this event go to The Noah’s Ark Project for AIDS orphans in Kenya.

A wonderful selection for adults and children alike: belts, bags, jewellery, sculpture, paintings, natural skincare products, cards and gift wrap, goodies for children, clothing and scarves … and, whether you’re visiting the Festival events, taking in the wonder of the Abbey or simply want to have a day out treating someone to a light lunch …

A rare opportunity for autistic schools to enjoy the therapeutic effects of music live in the Abbey. People of all ages and abilities are welcome to come to this event.