Dorchester has enjoyed a very busy summer, with festivals, street entertainment, markets and a hugely-successful carnival.

There is no hint of things slacking off as autumn approaches either, with a fabulous weekend of outdoor fun planned for Maumbury Rings and the relaunch of the ever-popular Bluesnights at the arts centre.

Inside Out returns this month, with 10 days of outdoor performances transforming Dorset’s rural, urban and coastal settings into a series of magical worlds.

A spokesman for the festival said: “Experience illuminating dance created entirely for pedestrians in a town square, or take part in contemporary circus at a Neolithic henge.

“Expect the unexpected. Prepare to be amused, inspired and mesmerised.”

Dorchester’s Maumbury Rings is one of the focal points of Inside Out.

No Fit State Circus is coming to town for a celebration of the secret life of parks – and the public are invited to take part themselves.

Community groups have the opportunity to participate in the performance and workshops and during the Open House sessions, activities will be open to the public and free of charge.

The local community’s talents will be revealed during the week and then they will be part of the finale show, complete with pyrotechnics, aerial artists, dance and music.

No Fit State also wants to hear of people’s unusual experiences in Maumbury Rings as these will be incorporated into the final show.

Parklife is at Maumbury Rings from Monday to Sunday, September 13 to 19.

Call Dorchester Arts on 01305 266926 to find out how you and your group can get involved.

Bluesnights also return with a performance by Station House at the arts centre on Saturday, September 25.

The band is led by a drummer, the legendary Sam Kelly who has been named UK Blues Drummer of the Year five times.

Expect a mix of blues with a flavour of funk, soul, and reggae, reflecting the backgrounds and experiences of the musicians in the band.

The gig starts at 8pm and tickets are £11 plus concessions in advance, £12 plus concessions on the night.