Running from 10am to 3pm, this free-to-attend community event (museum admission not included) offers visitors of all ages the chance to enjoy a classic summer celebration filled with games, entertainment and local charm.
This year’s fete features all the much-loved elements visitors have come to expect, including traditional family games and activities, a variety of stalls to browse and live music throughout the day creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy classics such as hook-a-duck, splat-the-rat, water or wine tombola and a lively coconut shy.
Visitors will also be able to purchase plants grown in the museum’s own garden, browse a treasure trove of second-hand books and take advantage of the museum shop’s biggest sale of the year, with a dedicated stall in the Garden Room.
Adding something special for 2026, the museum is introducing its first-ever Bake Off Competition, showcasing local baking talent. Entries will range from classic cakes to spectacular showstoppers, all judged on the day. After judging, visitors will have the opportunity to purchase and enjoy the delicious creations during the fete.
Refreshments will also be available from the museum’s popular garden Tea Room, making it easy to relax and soak up the summer atmosphere.
Amy Webster, Events Officer at the Museum of East Dorset said: “Whether visitors come for the music, the shopping, the homemade cakes or simply to spend time with friends and family, the Summer Fete promises a memorable day out in the heart of Wimborne and helps us to raise funds for ongoing activities at the museum.”
