WORCESTER Carnival makes a colourful return to the city today.

As well as the return of a colourful parade through the city streets this afternoon, visitors can enjoy live music, fairground rides and much more throughout the day.

We've put together an essential guide to help you enjoy carnival day to the fullest.

What time does it all kick off?

The carnival will start at 10am and will continue throughout the day, with live music on the community stage until 8pm this evening.

Is there an official opening ceremony?

Yes indeed! It will be taking place outside the Guildhall, in the High Street, and will see the official carnival queen and princess crowned by Mayor of Worcester, Cllr Steve Mackay.

What about the parade? When does that start?

Malvern Gazette:

The parade of walking groups and floats starts at 2pm from Croft Road, next to Worcester Racecourse. It will make its way through the city following the route illustrated above, before finishing up back at Croft Road.

Where is the carnival taking place?

In a change from the format of previous years, the carnival will be spread throughout the city centre rather than being at Pitchcroft. The funfair will be on the Cornmarket car park and the community stage, featuring live music, will also be in the same area.

How much does it cost?

Admission to the carnival is free and open to everyone, though expect to pay extra for rides, refreshments etc.

Are any roads or car parks closed during the event?

In a word, yes!

Cornmarket car park will be closed until 10pm this evening and Croft Road car park until 4pm this afternoon.

New Street and the Cornmarket are closed to traffic from 7am until 11pm today and the following roads will be closed between the hours of 1pm and 4pm today: Grandstand Road, Croft Road, Dolday, Deansway, College Street, City Walls Road (northbound carriageway only), All Saints Road, Charles Street, Pump Street, High Street, The Cross, The Foregate, Foregate Street and Castle Street. Worcester Bridge will also be closed to inbound traffic.

There will also be a rolling barrier around the pedestrianised areas of the city centre to ensure the safety and enjoyment of those in the parade as well as local visitors and shoppers.

What if I can't make it on the day?

You don't have to miss out on the fun, as we'll be reporting live on this website throughout the day - bringing you photos, commentary and interviews.

If you're at the event, keep an eye out for our reporters and photographer and send any of your own carnival pictures to us via Facebook, Twitter or by emailing news@worcesternews.co.uk.