THE summer weather may not have lived up to expectations so far but this weekend the sun is set to shine on a host of activities across the area.

The fifth annual Poole Park Fest heads up an impressive array of entertainment designed to ensure holidaymakers and locals have a fun Bank Holiday.

From duck racing and country fairs to carnival processions and cycling displays, there is sure to be something for everyone.

The fun starts tomorrow with the first day of the Studland Country Fair, incorporating an Irish music festival. Entertainment over three days includes a barn dance, helicopter rides, a barbecue and a dog show.

On Saturday there will be a country fair at Frogham, near Fordingbridge, with a tough wheelbarrow race up Blissford Hill, as well as Milford-on-Sea carnival procession and the Broadstone Horticultural Society summer show.

Sunday sees the first of two days at the Daily Echo-backed Poole Park Fest, expected to attract thousands of people.

Chinese dragon dancing, cycling demonstrations, a jive workshop, belly dancing and Salsa are just some of the events on offer.

There will be live music on both afternoons including Beach Boys and Bob Marley tribute acts and the Rat Pack.

The Sammy Miller vintage motorcycle run will also take place on Sunday in the New Forest.

Bank Holiday Monday will see the Christchurch Lions duck race and an Irish summer festival with craft workshops, music, dancing and storytelling at Walford Mill in Wimborne.

And for the first time in weeks, the weather forecast is looking pretty good - have fun!