What’s On at the BIC in 2026

As the warmer months approach and many of us start planning evenings out, the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) has an exciting line-up of events for 2026.

Located on Bournemouth’s seafront, the BIC is one of the South Coast’s largest entertainment venues, regularly attracting world-class musicians, comedians, touring shows and live events to Dorset. From huge live music performances to family shows, comedy and fascinating talks, there’s plenty to add to the diary this year.

Here are a few highlights from the BIC events calendar.

Live Music Highlights

Music lovers in Bournemouth and Dorset are in for a treat in 2026. Pop legends Blue celebrate their 25th Anniversary Tour in April, while chart icon Rick Astley brings his Reflection Tour to the BIC stage.

Electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk arrive in June with their spectacular multimedia tour, and reggae favourites UB40 return with their unmistakable sound.

Summer continues with soul legends The Temptations and The Four Tops performing together for a special anniversary tour.

Later in the year, audiences can look forward to major headline shows from Westlife celebrating 25 years of hits, as well as performances from Squeeze with special guest Billy Bragg and the Britpop favourites Ocean Colour Scene.

Comedy & Live Entertainment

The BIC is also a popular destination for some of the UK’s biggest comedy names.

Award-winning comedian Bill Bailey brings his brilliantly eccentric show Vaudevillean to Bournemouth in November, while Scottish comic Kevin Bridges arrives in December with his latest tour Here If You Need Me.

Looking ahead to 2027, the laughs continue with huge stand-up shows already announced from Jack Whitehall, Greg Davies, Romesh Ranganathan, Alan Carr and John Bishop.

Family Shows & Special Events

There are also fantastic options for families and live event fans.

Children will love the colourful stage production Gabby’s Dollhouse Live, inspired by the popular Netflix series Gabby's Dollhouse.

Elsewhere, dance superstars Diversity bring their high-energy Soul tour to the BIC, while fans of the BBC Radio drama can celebrate 75 years of The Archers with a special live show.

Sports fans can also enjoy the exciting South Coast Darts Showdown taking place in April.

Talks & Inspiring Evenings

For those who enjoy fascinating conversations and big ideas, the BIC hosts several thought-provoking live events.

World-renowned physicist Brian Cox brings his Emergence World Tour to Bournemouth for two nights in November, exploring the biggest questions about science and the universe.

Meanwhile actor and national treasure Miriam Margolyes arrives in October with her wonderfully candid show Full English.

Booking Ahead

Many events at the Bournemouth International Centre sell out quickly, particularly headline music tours and big-name comedians. Early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.

With new events regularly added throughout the year, it’s also worth checking the programme frequently to see what’s coming next.

To explore the full line-up of Bournemouth BIC events in 2026, visit the venue’s official website. www.bic.co.uk/whats-on