Thousands of people have flocked to a seaside town this weekend for the return of a huge free festival.

First Light Festival 2023 began in Lowestoft on Saturday morning (June 17) with a parade celebrating the nation's most easterly town.

The procession started at the Marina Theatre and ended at the Sunlight Stage on South Beach at midday.

It included a five-metre tall fox called Farrah and a Sol, a giant Lowestoft puppet representing the Spirit of the Sea, alongside musicians, performers and community groups. 

Lowestoft Journal: First Light Festival in full swing on Lowestoft's South Beach Picture: Mick HowesFirst Light Festival in full swing on Lowestoft's South Beach Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

READ MORE: Lowestoft First Light Festival 2023: All you need to know

First Light CIC has organised a jam-packed programme of entertainment, including comedians, soul stars and DJs.

All events are free and unticketed apart from the Sundown Events on Saturday night once the beach entertainment finishes at 9.30pm, which cost £10 at firstlightlowestoft.com/ticketed. 

From 3.30am to 5am on Sunday, gather on the shoreline and join the Sunrise Club for an unforgettable free dawn experience of dance and music with the rising light.

From 10am to 4pm on Sunday (June 18) the festivities continue.