TOMORROW is set to be a cracking night.

Dorchester’s annual Christmas Cracker event is returning to the town and its going to be bigger and better than ever.

There will be a number of special appearances on the night, including the big man himself – Father Christmas, and two very popular pups from children’s TV programme Paw Patrol who will officially be switching on the lights.

Father Christmas will be taking up residence in his grotto at Dorset County Museum between 5pm and 9pm, although families are advised to book prior to avoid disappointment.

Tickets are available at dorsetcountymuseum.org or at the museum shop.

And back by popular demand to the museum is everyone’s favourite science-fiction and movie characters.

Characters of all different shapes and sizes will be wandering the galleries at the museum - so watch out.

The Tea Room at Dorset County Museum will also be selling mulled wine and mince pies to get everyone feeling festive.For those wanting to get

out of the cold, the Corn Exchange will be hosting a Christmas craft fair from 4pm until 8pm. 

There will be a host of items on sale including crafts, home accessories, jewellery, clothing and home-made items.

The churches in High West Street will open their doors from 5pm with a carol service in St Peter’s and the Rock Choir in Holy Trinity. Both churches will be serving mulled wine and mince pies.

There will also be a lantern parade from 6pm from Top o’ Town roundabout, organised by Dorchester Arts, with children carrying lanterns made in the Create a Christmas Lantern workshop on December 3.

Fire and Police pups from Paw Patrol will be taking to the stage outside St Peter’s Church to press the magic button and illuminate Dorchester at 6.30pm.

The event’s main sponsor for this year’s event is Kingston Maurward and there will be a host of other entertainment from 4pm onwards to celebrate the official countdown to Christmas.

There will be free parking from 2pm in the main car parks.