ONE of the leading community events on the borough's social calendar is taking place today in East Finchley.

The popular East Finchley festival is being held in Cherry Tree Wood from midday until 6pm.

Thousands of people are expected to flock to the free festival, which is the longest running event of its kind in the borough having been established in 1974.

The day will start with a grand parade leaving from Martin Primary School, in High Road, at 11.30am and finishing in the park for the opening ceremony, which will be conducted by East Finchley Labour Councillor Alison Moore.

Organisers said the festival will showcase the area's “unique blend” of music, performance, arts and crafts.

There will be live entertainment across two stages by bands, singers, schools and arts groups, along with more than 50 stalls representing businesses and charities from the area.

A beer tent will be positioned close to the main stage and there will also be a food tent and a variety of food stalls.

The whole festival is run by volunteers and supported through sponsorship from businesses and charities, as well as any profits made on the day.

In the programme ahead of today's event, organisers wrote: “This year's festival offers a grand parade and two live stages with a wide range of performers from different cultures and ages, bringing diversity and encouraging local talent.

“So come along and support you local community and have some fun into the bargain.”