WEYMOUTH’S big day of the year is finally here – and it promises to be a cracker.

A team of volunteers have been working hard for almost a year to pull everything together for Weymouth Carnival 2014 and they have a spectacular show lined up.

They are urging people to dig deep and give what they can as it is all for a good cause.

Air displays – including the famous Red Arrows – beach sports and activities, live music and entertainment will be among the events for families to enjoy.

It culminates with the grand procession along the seafront this evening, plus fireworks in the Bay tonight.

People should be aware the seafront and procession route to Lodmoor will be closed to traffic from 5.15pm to 8.30pm.

As well as the events there is a food village to visit on the harbourside, stalls along the seafront and live music, sports and family activities on the beach. Visitors can also visit BBC’s World War One at Home exhibition at the Pavilion. The TS Pelican is also available to visit at the quayside.

The ceremony will be launched at the New Vic at 10am with the crowning of the carnival queen Emma Whitbread, 25.

Army Reservist Emma, 25, whose attendants are Sophie Watson, 17, and Amber Puckett, 13, said she is looking forward to her big day.

Carnival chairman Elysia Munday said: “The forecast looks good and we’re looking forward to a great day.

“There’s definitely a high amongst the committee in anticipation. We hope people come out in force to enjoy the day.”

She added: “We’ve had amazing support from people buying our draw tickets and programmes so get down early today if you want to buy them for yourself. The first prize in our grand draw is a new car.”

WHAT'S ON TODAY
10am: Opening ceremony at the New Vic
10am to 11.45am: Volleyball and football competition on beach
11am: Zumba on beach stage (also at 1.30pm)
11.45am: Sandcastle competition registration open. Competition from 12pm to 1pm. Winners announced at 1.15pm.
12pm: Bollywood dancers on the beach stage
1pm: Fitness bootcamp on beach (also at 3.30pm)
1pm to 4pm: Volleyball and football competition on beach
2pm: Great War Display Team 
5pm: Tug of war competition
5.30pm: Red Arrows (pictured)
6.30pm: Grand procession leaves Pavilion (goes one way on seafront to Lodmoor)
9.30pm: Firework display
10pm: Grand prize draw