The countdown is on for the return of the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival, taking place on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th September 2026!

Organised entirely by volunteers and held in the heart of the Blackmore Vale, the festival has become one of Dorset’s most popular food and community events, attracting thousands of visitors each year from across the South West.

The festival celebrates the very best of local food, drink, crafts, music and community spirit. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of artisan cheese producers, local food exhibitors, craft stalls, live entertainment, family activities, demonstrations, real ale, cider and wine bars, alongside a variety of refreshments throughout the weekend.

More than just a celebration of cheese, the festival is a charitable event run under the auspices of the Sturminster Newton Rotary Club. Thanks to the support of visitors, exhibitors, volunteers and sponsors, the festival has donated more than £450,000 to local charities, community groups and good causes over the last decade.

Recent beneficiaries have included local schools, youth organisations, community projects and charities that make a significant difference to people across Dorset and the surrounding counties.

The festival continues its commitment to being an affordable family day out, with children aged 15 and under admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Visitors can expect:

• Award-winning cheese and food producers
• Artisan crafts and gifts
• Live music and entertainment throughout the weekend
• Children’s entertainment and family activities
• Real ale, cider and wine bars
• Local charity and community organisation displays
• A warm welcome from our volunteer team

Advance tickets are available now through the festival website.

For tickets, programme updates and further information visit – Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival or
Email: info@cheesefestival.co.uk

What Three Words: doted.deleting.sway

*For satnav users, the postcode for the car park is DT10 1DQ