Celebrate Christmas in the community at The Dolphin

The Dolphin in Poole is inviting families and friends to step into the yuletide spirit with a programme of community-focussed Christmas events throughout the festive season.

A new, free experience for families to meet Santa, his elves, and their penguin pals is at The Dolphin this year. ‘Penguin’s Playground’ is a magical igloo containing arctic themed games aimed at children under the age of 10. Games include snowball throwing, sporty ski challenges, and fishing with Santa. The free event sessions run on the following dates throughout November and December:

• November - 29th and 30th 
• December - 5th, 6th, 7th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, and 23rd

The session times are at 11am, 11.45, 12.30pm, 1.45pm, 2.30pm, and 3.15pm. Please note that the first session of each day will accommodate children with SEND needs. Session places are filled on a first-come, first-served basis on the day.

Throughout the rest of the month, The Dolphin has organised a diverse range of seasonal events for all in the Poole community.

John Grinnell, centre manager of The Dolphin, said: “Christmas is a time for families to create memories together that they will cherish for years to come. At The Dolphin, we’re pleased to provide our community with a jam-packed schedule of events, from meeting Santa to giving back to local charities who go above and beyond to help vulnerable people across the county. We also have our vibrant Christmas Market and live choir performances that promise to leave shoppers feeling in the festive spirit. There truly is something for everyone to enjoy at The Dolphin this year.”

Amelia’s Rainbow, the local children’s charity, is holding its Toy Appeal on Saturday 29th November. Shoppers are encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys for children from disadvantaged families in the county who would otherwise be without a gift on Christmas Day. Toy drop-off points are located around the centre for people to donate while they shop.

The Dolphin’s Christmas Market launches on Friday 5th December until Christmas Eve to provide festive gift inspiration for those looking to support local independent businesses this year. Beyond Brushes, Sea Breeze Candles, Pottery Corner, Aladdin's Cave Vintage, and Urban Treasures are some of the local sellers showcasing their wares this year. The market will be open daily from 10am to 4pm, opposite The Body Shop.

Forest Holme Hospice’s Tree of Remembrance is on display in The Dolphin from Friday 28th November to Friday 19th December, raising vital funds for over 1,000 families who receive palliative and end of life care across Dorset. Locals have the opportunity to purchase Christmas items or hang a dedication to a lost loved one on the Christmas tree in exchange for a small donation.

On select days throughout December, local Christmas choirs, including The Salvation Army Band and Bournemouth & District Concert Band, will treat shoppers to live musical performances between 12-2pm on the following dates:

• Saturday 6th December: Salvation Army Band
• Thursday 11th December:  Bournemouth & District Concert Band
• Saturday 13th December: Frayed Strings
• Thursday 18th December: Canford Cliffs Choir
• Saturday 20th December: Salvation Army Band