Harbour Homecoming: Dorset Seafood Festival Returns to Weymouth’s Waterfront in 2026
After several years away from its traditional setting, the Dorset Seafood Festival is set to make a celebrated return to Weymouth Harbour next summer in what organisers are calling a long-awaited Harbour Homecoming.
The much-loved event will take place on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th July 2026, bringing the festival back to the historic waterfront where it first began almost two decades ago. The move marks a significant moment for the town and for one of Dorset’s most iconic annual celebrations.
Back to the heart of Weymouth
Festival directors Sophie Kermani and Pippa Gibb, both born and raised in Weymouth, said the decision to return to the harbour reflects the event’s deep roots in the local community.
While the Weymouth Peninsula provided an important base in recent years, particularly during the recovery from the pandemic, the directors said the harbour remains the festival’s natural home.
They added that the setting better reflects the area’s maritime heritage and creates a stronger connection between visitors, local fishermen and the wider community.
In another welcome change, the festival will be free to attend once again. Organisers hope this will make the event accessible to everyone, from local families to visitors drawn to Dorset’s renowned seafood scene.
What visitors can expect
Although the 2026 festival will initially operate on a slightly smaller scale to allow for a safe and sustainable restart following recent harbour improvements, it will retain all the features that have made it nationally acclaimed.
Highlights are expected to include:
* A wide range of fresh seafood stalls showcasing locally caught fish and shellfish prepared by skilled traders.
* The Chefs’ Theatre, featuring live cooking demonstrations by leading regional chefs and advocates for sustainable seafood.
* A selection of local drinks, including Dorset ales, English wines and Champagne Pommery.
* Live music on the Après Sea Stage from local acoustic performers.
* Educational activities at the School of Fish, offering insight into sustainable fishing and marine conservation.
Supporting local fishermen
The festival will continue its longstanding support for The Fishermen’s Mission, a charity that provides vital assistance to fishermen and their families across the UK.
Through fundraising and awareness raising, organisers say the event plays an important role in highlighting the challenges faced by the industry while celebrating its contribution to Dorset’s identity.
A boost for the town
Local businesses are hoping the festival’s return to the harbour will provide a welcome economic boost. Previous events have been estimated to generate around £3.5 million for the local economy over the festival weekend.
With stallholders and sponsors already expressing interest in taking part, expectations are high that the 2026 Dorset Seafood Festival will be one of the biggest highlights of the region’s summer calendar.
The festival will take place at Weymouth Harbour on 4th and 5th July 2026. Admission will be free.
Further details will be available on the official festival website at dorsetseafood.co.uk.
