LOOKING for something to do in Dorset this weekend? After months of events being cancelled and lockdown restrictions, events are now taking place across the country – and this weekend is no exception.

Here’s our guide to just some of the events being held – and there’s just about something for everyone.

1. Get your weekend off with a bang when the Bournemouth fireworks light up the skies at 10pm. The popular event attracts hundreds of people to the beachfront and runs every Friday until September 2.

2. The first Upton House Food & Drink Festival is taking place this weekend, in an event which boasts live music throughout. Being held at Upton Country Park  in Poole, the event was originally set for the last weekend of June. It was, however, rescheduled for Friday 13, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 August. For more information, visit: uptonhousefoodfestival.com.

3. Christchurch Carnival returns on the Quay this Saturday and Sunday. The event, which has been running for more than 100 years, will feature displays and activities, plus music, a funfair and a fireworks display. The free carnival takes place between 10am and 10pm on Saturday with a fireworks finale at 9.30pm. While Sunday will see Staffie and Stray Rescue present a dog show from 12pm.

4. A special heritage event will be taking place on Sunday to mark Poole's role in World War II and the 75th anniversary of VJ Day. The public event, scheduled for Poole Quay from 1-5pm, will also include one of the largest gatherings of Dunkirk Boats in Poole Harbour since the war.Historic military vehicles, vintage cars, stands of the Royal Signals, the RNLI Museum, Royal British Legion, Royal Naval Association, RAF Association, swing and jazz bands as well as a fun fair will also feature.

5. A new three-day festival of fitness and family fun, brings its obstacle course to The Triangle, Commercial Road, in Bournemouth on Saturday. Would-be contenders can have some fun and get a taste of what they can expect from the full 40-element obstacle course which will be the centrepiece of the new Contender Fest event next month. A selection of the obstacles, which have all been custom-built for the festival, will be set up in The Triangle- and you can turn up and have a go for free.

6. A car boot sale takes place at the Hurn Bridge Show Field in Parley Lane, Christchurch, on Sunday. The sale opens for sellars at 11am with entry for buyers between 1pm and 4pm. Costs £5 for sellars and £1 for buyers.