If you see a six-year-old fairy skipping along with a young wizard, don't worry. You haven't been sucked into the world of Harry Potter.

It's the 12th annual csma-sponsored Children's Parade.

On May 4, the city will be packed with more than 2,500 children and their families as the parade weaves from Sydney Street (10.30am) through the Pavilion Gardens down to the Ellipse on the seafront.

Dominated by wands, glitter and face paint, the parade is the most colourful way to begin the festival month and it's absolutely free.

If you have any energy left, make your way to the Family Festival Ceilidh at the Corn Exchange. The fun kicks off at 7pm with a live band lead by the Royal Scottish Dance Society. Entrance is £6 for adults. £1 for under 16s.

One of the most greatly anticipated events of the month is the Streets Of Brighton free festival which runs from Thursday May 9 until May 11.

More than 200 street performers will take to the streets to entertain the public with acrobatic high-jinx and comedy.

Party Brazilian-style at the Brighton Samba Encounter which takes place at the Corn Exchange on Saturday, May 25 (tickets £8) and the Ellipse Sunday, May 26 (free).

Salsa, swing and strut your funky stuff to the samba beats of Carnival Collective and Mr Bongo DJs. There will be samba workshops at various venues throughout Brighton on May 25.

For information, call 01273 625617. Tickets cost £5/£3.