A BUMPER bank holiday weekend is just around the corner so here’s our guide to some of the events taking place across Dorset.

1. The Great Dorset Steam Fair continues at South Down Farm in Tarrant Hinton until Monday. The event, which is now in its 50th year, features 500 full size steam engines, a World War One tribute display with replica Western Front trench system, classic cars, heavy horses, vintage tractors, a fairground, craft and food marquees. The International Big Pete Monster Truck Display Team, Paul Swift’s Britalian Job and Xtreme Stunt Team will also be wowing the crowds with their stunts. Plus, there’s live music across six stages from the likes of The Wurzels, Bad Manners, Saints of Sin and the Stereotonics.

2. A giant inflatable slide is coming to Bournemouth's Richmond Hill on Sunday. People will be able to race each other down the two-lane slide, while spectators will be able enjoy hot tubs, DJs, street food and cocktails. There will be four two-hour and 45-minute sessions taking place throughout the day with the 7pm to 9.45pm slot already booked up. The event has been organised by THIS Event company with the support of Bournemouth council and the Town Centre BID.

3. Go quackers at Wimborne’s 19th annual duck race on Saturday. The ducks will be released into the river at the bottom of Mill Lane by the Riverside Mews Cafe at 4pm and the race will finish behind the Rising Sun in East Street. Tickets are £1 each and there will be cash prizes on offer.

4. A family fun day is being held at Portfield School in Christchurch from 2.30pm on Saturday to celebrate 50 years of Autism Wessex. Visitors will be able to enjoy music, food, games, stalls and entertainment.

5. There will be face painting, Shire Horses, a BBQ and children’s entertainment at The Avon Causeway pub in Hurn on Saturday when a family fun day takes place between 12pm and 4pm.

6. Bournemouth’s summer fireworks will light up the skies over Bournemouth Pier for the final time tonight at 10pm.

7. Ready steady, rumble! Fightstar Pro Wrestling returns to the Barrington Theatre in Ferndown on Saturday. Wrestlers set to take to the ring include Mr Neat Charlie Biggs, The Original: Jay Knox, Freakshow, Ricardo Borg, Nico Angelo and Connie Steele.

8. The 10th annual Dorset Plane Pull takes place at Bournemouth Airport on Monday from 10am. The event, hosted by European Skybus, sees teams of 20 people attempt to pull a 35,000kg Boeing 737 airliner a distance of 50 meters in the fastest time.

9. Verwood Rustic Fayre returns on bank holiday Monday between 12noon and 5.30pm at Potterne Park. Attractions will include food, drink, music, classic vehicles, a Pimm’s bar, pets corner, a dog agility display, duck race and more.Egg catching and Terrier racing will also be making a return.For children, there will be the chance to learn juggling, stilt-walking and plate spinning, plus a Punch and Judy show.

Entry costs £5 and is free for children when accompanied by a paying adult.