Easy as ABC – from ABBA to Bingo to Carols, support Forest Holme Hospice this Christmas

Fancy a bit of bingo, a festive singalong or a Christmas fun run? Forest Holme Hospice has plenty lined up for the rest of 2026, and every event helps support its vital work in our local community.

Whether you’re a Dancing Queen, a dabber at the ready or someone who loves a good Christmas carol, there’s a reason to get out, get involved and have some fun for a fantastic cause.

Forest Holme Hospice Charity needs to raise £1 million every year to help fund its work, providing compassionate care and support for people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families. That means every ticket bought, every challenge completed and every donation really does count.

So why not round up some friends, pencil in a date or two and make the most of these chances to support your local hospice before the year is out?

Eyes down, dabbers ready!

First up, test your luck at Bingo Night on Thursday 22 October from 6pm at the Canford Magna Complex, better known to many as the Hamworthy Club. Gather your lucky charms, get those dabbers ready and keep your eyes firmly on your numbers. Will you be the first to shout “Bingo!”? There’s only one way to find out.

It’s a great excuse for a night out, with the bonus of knowing you’re helping Forest Holme support local patients and families.

Book your place: Bingo Night tickets

Calling all Dancing Queens and Super Troupers!

Next, warm up those vocal cords for Singalong ABBA Night on Saturday 7 November from 8pm at St Peter’s Church, Parkstone. Brush up on the lyrics and get ready to belt out the classics.

Whether you know every word to Mamma Mia or simply can’t resist a bit of Dancing Queen, it’s a feel-good evening with a feel-good purpose. Thank you for the music!

Find out more: Singalong ABBA Night

A little light, a lot of love

As Christmas approaches, many of us find our thoughts turning to those who are no longer with us. The festive season can bring a mixture of happy memories and sadness, which makes it all the more important to find time to pause and reflect.

Forest Holme’s Tree of Remembrance returns to the Dolphin Centre in Poole from Friday 27 November to Friday 18 December. Pop along during the day to dedicate a message in memory of a loved one and add it to the tree, and browse the Christmas gifts on the charity’s stall while you’re there. It’s a simple but meaningful way to keep loved ones close at a time of year when they may be especially missed.

You can also come together with others at Light Up a Life on Saturday 5 December at 4pm at St James’ Church, Poole. With candle lighting, readings and carols led by the choir, this gathering offers a moment of reflection and comfort for anyone missing someone they love.

Both are a heartfelt reminder of the support Forest Holme gives patients and families through some of life’s most difficult moments.

Find out more: Tree of Remembrance | Light Up a Life

Run, walk or jog your way into Christmas

Ready to swap the sofa for some festive fresh air? The Merry Mile on Sunday 6 December at Branksome Dene Room is the perfect chance to pull on your Christmas jumpers, gather the family and get moving for Forest Holme.
Open to all ages, it even comes with a magical Santa’s Grotto for younger participants. Festive outfits are definitely encouraged!

Book your place: The Merry Mile tickets

Party in style

If you’d like to swap trainers for party shoes, the Christmas Party at The Italian Villa, Compton Acres, on Thursday 10 December offers the chance to celebrate the season in one of the area’s most beautiful settings, all while raising money for your local hospice.

Book your place: Christmas Party at The Italian Villa

Finish the year on a high note

Prefer to leave the running and dancing to someone else? The Big Sing Church Tour returns on Saturday 12 December from 2pm to 4.30pm at Christ Church Creekmoor, bringing people together for an uplifting afternoon of music in support of Forest Holme Hospice.

Music has a wonderful way of lifting spirits and creating a sense of community, and when it helps fund hospice care, there’s even more reason to join in. It’s the perfect way to round off the year.

Find out more: The Big Sing Church Tour

Something to look forward to in 2027

Looking ahead to the new year, Forest Holme’s much-loved Strictly Extravaganza returns to The Lighthouse, Poole, on Saturday 23 January 2027 for an evening of Strictly magic. Keep your eyes peeled for more details.

Make a difference, one event at a time

Ready to join in? Discover upcoming events, book your tickets and find more ways to support Forest Holme Hospice at forestholmehospice.org.uk/events.