Festive proceedings really get going this weekend with a big switch-on in Weymouth tomorrow, followed by Dorchester's turn on Thursday. And don't miss local musical entertainment and the chance to buy some unique gifts for Christmas along with some Christmas carolling.

*GET your skates on because it's Christmas lights switch-on time in Weymouth tomorrow.

They will be turned on in New Bond Street by the Mayor Richard Kosior and the stars of Weymouth pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk.

There will be entertainment from 2pm until 8.30pm on the main stage and at the ice rink with the lights switched on at 6pm.

There will also be a parade from Brewers Quay at 5pm with the ice rink outside Debenhams also opening for business.

There will also be free parking in the town centre from 12pm.

Santa will be in his grotto every December weekend and in the three days running up until Christmas Day.

*IF you're dreaming of a Wyke Christmas, your dreams can come true on Sunday.

The Wyke Christmas Street Fayre takes place on Sunday from 12pm until 4.30pm in the streets around Old Wyke Square.

There will be entertainment from the Dorset Wrecks and pupils at Wyke Regis Infant School.

There will also be Father Christmas in the Wyke Regis Social Club, stalls in the Memorial Hall and a Christmas draw with prizes on offer.

*HO-ho-how many Santas can you spot in Dorchester on Sunday morning?

The Weldmar Santa Fun Run starts at 11am on Sunday from Dorchester Rugby Club.

*CELEBRATE Christmas in Chapelhay Community Playgarden on Sunday (4) between 11.30am and 1pm.

There will be fun and games, arts and crafts, mince pies and fruit punch. Everyone is invited.

*EMBRACE tradition for Christmas and have a go at making Christmas mini wreaths at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre in Weymouth from 10am to 4pm.

It costs £2 each to make a wreath. No unaccompanied children. Call 01305 816546 to book.

*GUITARIST John Etheridge and vocalist Vimala Rowe will perform at Buckland Newton Village Hall tomorrow and Portesham Village Hall on Sunday. Both performances are at 7.30pm.

Together John and Vimala weave a magical spell, effortlessly travelling on a musical exploration from India to Africa, the Middle East and the USA.

Call 01300 345455 for tickets for Buckland Newton or 01305 871925 for tickets for Portesham.

*THERE'S a festive day out for all the family at a Christmas Craft Fair at the Fernhill Hotel, Charmouth tomorrow from 1pm to 4.30pm.

It will feature diverse craft stalls, live Christmas music from Chard children's brass band, face painting and other kids' activities, mulled wine and more.

*BELT out some Christmas carols at West Bay Days' Christmas Tree on the Green on Sunday from 3pm.

Starting at St John's Church, there will be carols and seasonal music played by the St Swithun’s Band

There will be a grand tree lighting ceremony on Harbour Green at 4.15pm.