FESTIVE fun is descending on Poole with a range of winter events to tempt the palate and the senses.

Markets, lights, children's lantern procession, carol singing and even snow will turn the town into a winter wonderland. There will be the first ever flotilla of lights and Continental Market at Poole Quay on Friday December 7 and a magical children's lantern procession and carol singing in Falklands Square on Thursday December 13 at 6pm.

Lights on a 20ft Christmas tree at the Waterfront Museum have been switched on by John Corderoy, managing director of winter events sponsor Breeze Volkswagen, complete with a scattering of snow.

Today (Saturday) at 4pm snow has again been ordered in Falkland Square when the tree lights will be turned on and the town centre Christmas market will begin.

Tempting treats will also be in the air when the Poole Quay celebrations begin courtesy of Poole Tourism and the Daily Echo and Advertiser.

From December 7 to 9 sights and smells from France, Germany, Italy and Spain will be tempting shoppers at a continental market.

On the Friday from 4pm an illuminated parade will set the waterside aglow with Christmas lights.

And for the first time the Quay will display its own illuminated tree, where a choir and carols will bring a seasonal atmosphere from 7pm.

"This is a first for the Quay and a wonderful addition to Poole's countdown to Christmas," said Bruce Grant-Braham, chairman of Poole Tourism Partnership.

And to help shoppers there will be free parking in town centre car parks every Sunday from 10.30am to 4.30pm and every Thursday from 6pm, plus Friday December 7 after 6pm.