THOUSANDS are expected to descend on Christchurch this weekend as the carnival returns for its 114th year.

The huge community celebration has a packed programme of free entertainment and activities for the whole family.

Festivities will begin with the chance to win £100 in the tug of war event on Friday down on Christchurch Quay from 6pm.

There will also be a free circus skills masterclass and the winners of this year’s Shining Stars Awards will also be announced.

Guests can enjoy live music and funfair rides from Coles Fairground until 8pm.

Saturday is set be a jam-packed day of fun for all the family from 10am to 10pm, with captivating arena acts, KidsZone with Punch and Judy, Bournemouth baby goats, vibrant stalls, street food and drink and the Dragon Boat Marathon.

Live music with a sensational showcase of local talent will be on the mainstage, along with this year’s headliner of the ultimate Elton John tribute act and don’t forget the fantastic fireworks from the waterside.

The annual dog show will return to the Quay on Sunday from 10am followed by the jewel in the carnival’s crown, the grand parade.

The parade will make its way through the streets from Two Riversmeet, down the High Street and past the Old Town Hall where you can see and hear the Town Crier from the balcony, before it makes its way back to the Quay.

This annual community event has taken place in Christchurch for over 110 years and this year will be raising funds for three local partners: The Listening Ear, Hengistbury Head Outdoors and the Pink Champagne Breast Cancer Dragon Boat Team.