The 11th annual Dorchester Cider Festival returns to Borough Gardens on Saturday 15th August 2026 at 14:00.
A family-friendly event celebrating great cider, local food and live music throughout the day. Please purchase your 2026 festival cup first from the Dorchester Round Table orange gazebo. It will be the only cup accepted for drinks within the Cider Village.
Purchasing a festival cup helps cover the growing costs of running this charity event and ensures a safe, enjoyable day for everyone. All festival profits are distributed to local causes by the Dorchester Round Table.
Please respect Borough Gardens, which has Green Flag status, and use the extra bins provided.
Click below to jump to each section: Cider Village, Food Vendors, Live Music, FAQs.
Cider Village
Sample a wide range of ciders, with something to suit every taste from sweet and fruity through to traditional dry varieties. Soft drinks, beers and wines will also be available.
Details of the cider makers joining us in 2026 will be announced soon.
Note: A Think 25 policy will be enforced for all alcohol sales. Please bring suitable photographic identification if you are fortunate enough to look under 25.
Food Vendors
A selection of food vendors will be serving throughout the festival, with options available to accompany your cider and keep you going throughout the day.
The full 2026 food vendor list will be announced soon.
Live Music
Live music will run across the Main Stage and Acoustic Stage throughout the afternoon and evening.
Main Stage
- Fluke – Stage time: 14:00–14:50.
- Tristan Hutton – Stage time: 15:30–16:30.
- Tabula Fire – Stage time: 17:00–18:00.
- Ironhide – Stage time: 18:30–20:00.
- Stillyano – Stage time: 20:30–22:00.
Acoustic Stage
- Drew Allen – Stage time: 14:55–15:25.
- Kipper – Stage time: 16:30–17:00.
- Chris Davies – Stage time: 18:00–18:30.
- Eva Grant – Stage time: 20:00–20:30.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the festival?
Dorchester Cider Festival takes place on Saturday 15th August 2026. The festival and live music run from 14:00 until 22:00.
Where is the festival?
The festival takes place in Borough Gardens, Dorchester.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to Borough Gardens and the live music is free. However, a 2026 festival cup must be purchased at the event for drinks bought within the Cider Village.
Where can I buy my festival cup?
Festival cups will be available from the Dorchester Round Table orange gazebo. Please purchase your cup before visiting the other cider stands to avoid friction.
Are there non-cider drink options?
Yes. A general bar serving lager, ale, wines and soft drinks will also be available.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but dogs must be kept on leads and under control throughout the event.
Will extra bins be provided?
Yes. Please use the additional bins to help us keep Borough Gardens clean and maintain its Green Flag status.
Please enjoy responsibly, dispose of your litter and respect the park. Event details are subject to change.