IT is a time of the year when packed streets, the waft of mulled wine and smell of hog roast attracts thousands of people.

Ulverston's Dickensian Festival has become a firm fixture in the town's calendar, and this year's is set to be a cracker at the weekend.

With clear skies and crisp winter days forecast, the town is expected to be a magnet for locals and tourists alike.

GUIDE: Everything you need to know about the Dickensian Festival

The festival will include the big switch-on of Ulverston's new Christmas lights – with the town's residents able to get a sneak preview if they are round and about today at 5pm when they are tested.

Of course there will be costumes aplenty as fans of all things Dickensian don period costumes.

And the usual festive fair rides will be on hand for youngsters – or adults – keen to engage in a little hi-octane activity.

Keep an eye on the Evening Mail this week for details of what's happening and when.

MUSIC LINEUP: Here's who's playing where for the festival