Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival: what’s going on?

Here’s everything you need to know about the attraction set to shine this festive season.

What is that?

Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival is billed as Poole’s answer to Bournemouth’s popular Christmas Tree Wonderland attraction, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.

The nautically themed event will kick off at the ‘gates of Poole‘ – featuring the Twin Sails Bridge, Hunger Hill and the Lighthouse.

It will feature thousands of lights and light installations that will take visitors on a journey through Poole town centre.

CGI of Poole’s future maritime Christmas lights festival. (Image: BCP Council/Blachère) (Image: BCP Council/Blachère)

When does it work?

The festival will start on Saturday November 19 and will continue until Monday January 2, 2023.

A tree on the quay. CGI image of the planned Poole Christmas maritime lights festival (Image: BCP Council) (Image: BCP Council)

What can I see?

A pathway will feature light installations, including a 120-metre “under the sea” light curtain, a giant anchor and a five-metre tall ship.

There will also be several illuminated Christmas trees ranging in size from 8 to 11 meters, including the ‘Falkland Square Deep Sea Tree’, the ‘Magical Maritime Tree’ and the ‘Bobble Hat Tree’.

There will also be crossing structures; a snowflake, a lantern and a ball.

Plus, light projections and shimmering overhangs.

There will also be lights at Hunger Hill and light columns at the Twin Sails Bridge.

CGI of Poole’s future maritime Christmas lights festival. A maritime ‘curtain of light’ on the High Street. BCP/Blachere Council (Image: BCP Council/Blachère)

Where is the trail?

The trail will see visitors travel from Falkland Square to the High Street and Poole Quay, culminating in the “shimmering illuminated harbour”.

It will feature a total of 23 highlights.

A giant anchor CGI at the Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival. BCP Consulting/Blachere (Image: BCP Conseil/Blachère)

What else is going on?

Organizers said there are also plans for funfair rides, a Christmas-themed market selling “traditional food” as well as festive foods and drinks.

Poole Harbor will also be illuminated by Gobo projectors positioned on four City Cruises party boats, creating illuminating light illusions on the water as a unique feature of the festival.

Meanwhile, Choirs at Christmas will perform at venues in Poole throughout the festive period, starting in Falklands Square at 2pm on Saturday November 19.

CGI of Poole’s future maritime Christmas lights festival. Trees at Hunger Hill.

How much does it cost?

The event is free.

CGI of Poole’s future maritime Christmas lights festival.

What did the board say?

Councilor Beverley Dunlop, Member of Tourism, Culture and Vibrant Places, said: ‘The Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival will be a spectacular event on land and in the harbour, across High Street and Quay, bringing joy to thousands of residents and visitors each week, while supporting local businesses and hospitality.

“I am extremely proud that we have created this unique new event for Poole of dazzling light installations to bring festive joy to the town in these trying times.”

Where can I find out more?

For a trail map and to find out more visit poole-christmas-maritime-light-festival.co.uk/