About

We bring together large-scale installations, diverse music, intriguing spectacles, dance, street theatre, participatory experiences and so much more, to give you a festival that is unique as it is celebratory.

Originally launched in 2011, Arts by the Sea brings cultural experiences to the centre of Bournemouth, as well as into surrounding neighbourhoods, working with schools and communities across the local areas.

We champion local artists and emerging talents, providing a variety of opportunities to support their creative development. Inclusivity, diversity and sustainability are at the heart of all that we do and we feel privileged to bring to you the 15th edition of Arts by the Sea for 2025.

We’re an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation organisation, which means that funding from taxpayers and National Lottery players play a huge part in supporting the work we do each year.

Arts by the Sea Festival won gold for Tourism Event/Festival of the Year at the 2023/2024 South West Tourism Excellence Awards, and in 2022 was awarded ‘Best Festival/Event’ at the Dorset Tourism Awards.