THE Swanage Regatta & Carnival countdown is almost over, with thousands of visitors expected over the eight-day event.

Here’s your guide to what's happening, where and when .

When is it?

The regatta starts on Saturday, July 30 and runs for eight days. It comes to a close on Saturday, August 6.

So what happens over the eight days?

A lot! More than 100 events have been lined up for 2016, organisers say.

The opening day will include a host of attractions around Swanage and culminate with an evening seafront fireworks display.

Sandpit Field - hosting the carnival bar and marque - and the Recreation Ground will be the focus for much of the activities.

However, expect fun and games, including live music, a go-kart race, kitchen demonstration, beach treasure hunt, sand sculpture contest, kayak racing, wacky fun races and much more throughout the week.

Are there are any other firework displays?

Yes, there are three in total. They take place Saturday, July 30, Wednesday, August 3 and Saturday, August 6.

When is the procession?

The main carnival procession is the highlight of the main event and is scheduled for Sunday, July 31. This year’s theme is ‘sitcoms’.

It will be led by town criers from Swanage and Poole, and the town's emergency services.

The bands will be led by the Ringwood Pipe Band, and following the floats will be the Meridian Corps of Drums and RAW Samba.

A carnival spokesman said: "Before the procession begins, the entertainment starts with a parade of beach buggies, motorbikes, vintage cars and a comedy carnival band.

"Then it is the main event. Procession Sunday showcases the biggest and best traditional carnival on the south coast.

"Following a 2.5 mile route winding along the seafront and through the town centre, with thousands of spectators lining the pavements along the way."

Anything new for this year?

Yes, Swanage’s first ever pirate festival which coincides with the carnival and takes place Friday, July 29 to Sunday, July 31.

The festival, organised as an event to support the Save Swanage Pier Appeal, will include re-enactments, storytelling shows, live music, a wild swim and the return of the frigate Shtandart - a replica of the Russian naval ship commissioned and sailed by Tzar Peter the Great.

Visitors will also get the chance to visit a pirate rum tent, listen to sea shanties from The Salts, Kelp and the Wareham Whalers, and be entertained by the UK's leading Jack Sparrow impersonator.

Are there any air displays?

Not this year but there’s plenty of other stuff going on.

What about running events?

In previous years, a half marathon has featured as part of the line-up. However, due to health and safety concerns from Dorset Highways Agency and the Police, it won’t be taking place this year. The last one was in 2012.

What about the four-mile fun run?

You can definitely dig out your running shoes for that as that will be held on Thursday, August 4. The time is still yet to be confirmed but you can sign up at the Carnival Caravan on Shore Road during carnival week or on the night.

The race is limited to 250 participants and costs £5 to enter in advance or £7 on the day.

How do I get a programme?

Carnival programmes are available for sale around Swanage.

Visit swanagecarnival.com for further details.