Arts by the Sea will return to Bournemouth this September with a new ELEMENTAL theme.
The free festival will take place on Friday 25 and Saturday 26 September, bringing installations, live performance and immersive arts experiences to the Lower Gardens and town centre.
This year’s theme is inspired by the forces of nature, creativity and the energy linking people and place. The main festival will be followed by an expanded Fringe running from Sunday 27 September to Sunday 11 October.
Bournemouth-based artist Rhea Hanlon, also known as Lost Lines, has been named Artist in Residence for 2026. She will help shape the festival’s look and feel, create new commissioned work and work with local communities.
She said returning to Bournemouth in the role felt “incredibly special” after first coming to the town as a student.
Bombay Dance Club, the Bournemouth-based duo Sona and Shweta, will also join as Associate Artists. They will create a new performance inspired by the ELEMENTAL theme, with opportunities for audiences to take part.
Councillor Andy Martin said the festival brings people together “in the heart of Bournemouth and across our neighbourhoods”.
Venues, organisations and independent producers are being invited to apply to join the Fringe programme through the Arts by the Sea website.
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