IT’S time to party.

Dorset will be celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee over the next four days in what will be a momentous occasion.

Residents will be tucking into tea and cake and coming together with neighbours, friends and family to celebrate Her Majesty’s 70 years of service with more than 300 street parties due to be held across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole alone.

Read more: Platinum Jubilee beacon locations in Dorset: see the list

Some of today’s biggest events include a free family event at Two Riversmeet leisure complex in Christchurch between 12pm and 5pm, a picnic in the Walled Garden at Upton Country Park in Poole between 11am and 4pm accompanied by live music, a celebration at Pelhams Park in Kinson between 1pm and 5pm and a fun day in West Parley on the sports field from 1.30pm followed by a picnic on the recreation ground.

Read more: Bunting row breaks out in Jubilee Road - as council says decorations 'aren't high enough'

Then tonight, beacons will be lit across the area in tribute to the Queen at 9.45pm.

In Bournemouth, a torch will be lit on the East Overcliff near the Jon Egging memorial, followed by fireworks in the bay.

Christchurch will be lighting its beacon at Mudeford Quay but the festivities will start from 5pm with an entertainment planned along with food and drink stalls. A twilight procession is also planned along the beaches at Mudeford.

Read more: Everything you need to know about the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in Dorset

In Poole, the beacon lighting will be at Sandbanks followed by fireworks in the bay.

A number of other events will also be held over the jubilee weekend to coincide with the historic celebrations.

Foodies are set to flock to Christchurch Food Festival which starts today and runs until Sunday on Christchurch Quay featuring street food, bars, entertainment and cooking demonstrations.

Read more: The biggest FREE events taking place for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee

Meanwhile, seafood lovers can celebrate all things fishy at Poole Seafood Festival on Poole Quay between Friday and Sunday.

Bournemouth 7s will also take place at East Parley in Christchurch serving up some of the best sport and music.

Daily Echo reporters will be out and about covering street parties and events across Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and beyond.

You can follow rolling coverage throughout the weekend, see picture galleries, stories and more.