FOUR days of festive events will make up the Poole Christmas Extravaganza this year.

Scheduled to start on Thursday (Nov 30) with the lights being switched on by Poole mayor and the cast of Lighthouse's panto Cinderella, the extravaganza includes a host of attractions - including a laser projection show and a number of live acts.

Organised in partnership with the Poole BID, the four-day festive event will also boast fireworks, three live music stages and a winter bar.

Christmas tree lights will be turned on at Falkland Square and on Poole Quay at 5.30pm on Thursday. (Nov 30)

Poole BID manager Les Robertson said: "Poole's Christmas Extravaganza is going to be a spectacle to behold this year with plenty of live entertainment and lights galore.

"There truly will be something for everyone to enjoy."

On Saturday, December 2 and Sunday, December 3 Poole Quay will play host to a Christmas Market, with traditional stands and exclusive gifts available for purchase.

There will also be several viewings of the Water Fountain Laser Projection Show, which is new for Poole this year.

But the main event, the Santa procession through town, is expected to draw the biggest crowds.

An event spokesman explained: "The schedule is bursting with entertainment and activities sure to get you in the Christmas spirit, including a visit from the man himself, Santa Claus, who will arrive on a City Cruises' boat to Poole Quay at 11am on Sunday, December 3.

"Santa will parade through Poole on his Christmas train, joined by the Mayor of Poole Cllr Lindsay Wilson and the stars of the Lighthouse’s panto performance of Cinderella.

"Santa’s procession will start at Poole Quay, moving towards Old Orchard and then through the High Street to Falkland Square."

Other seasonal activities and festive competitions will be organised by Poole BID throughout December.