Today sees the beginning of Big Splash 2012 with much to do and see around the seven fun zones in the centre of Newport over the weekend.

The launch event will be held on Friday evening on the Admiral Soundwave stage and throughout Saturday with the outside stage at the Red Wave showcasing a great range of Welsh and UK music.

Ultimate Usk features fun on the river for all to see, including the highlight of the weekend – the Sunset Spectacular, an incredible show that will light up Newport’s riverbanks.

In addition, fun fair rides will be situated near the train and Riverside Car Park.

The Newport Centre will be hosting urban events through its Urban Edge programme, featuring BMX and Stomp dance competitions.

Rannel Theatre Company, BBC Radio 1’s Charlie Sloth and The event headliners, Legends of Wu Tang will also be adding to the entertainment.

There will be more family-orientated events throughout the weekend in John Frost Square with Squaretastic and the Sunday fun day Parklife at Rodney Parade.

The Riverfront Theatre will also be staging many free events throughout the weekend including theatre shows and tasters for all ages.

In addition there will be wondrous and comic walkabout characters in A Passing Fancy which will animate the walkways around the seven zones.

There will also be a selection of fun and workshops or taster sessions for visitors to join in with.

A detailed table of events is available from newport. gov.uk/bigsplash Further updates and news can be found on Twitter @newportfestival and on Facebook facebook.com/bigsplashnewport Big Splash times run from Friday, July 13 – 6pm to 11pm, Saturday, July 14 – 12pm to 11pm, Sunday, July 15 – 12pm to 5pm, Monday, July 16 – 7pm to 11pm.