A mix of light shows, fireworks and road closures are set to transform Alexandra as the annual Blossom Festival gets underway.

The festival kicks off today, Friday (September 26), with temporary traffic measures in place to ensure public safety across the town centre and around Pioneer Park.

The main festival day is Saturday, with Mardi Gras and motorsport events this evening. Pioneer Park and nearby roads are expected to be especially busy.

Confirmed road closures are as follows:

Friday September 26

Rivers St, between Thompson St and 32 Rivers St: 1pm–9pm

Walton St and Thompson St, between Skird St and Tarbert St: 3pm–9pm

Saturday September 27

• Bantry St and Shannon St (beside Pioneer Park): 6am–6pm
• Centennial Ave / Dunorling St (SH8) between Clutha St and Kelman St, and Tarbert St (SH85) between Dunorling St and Bantry St: 10am–3pm
• Killarney St, between Brandon St and Centennial Ave: 10am–2pm

“These road closures are designed to help everyone move around safely and enjoy the festivities,” a council spokesperson said.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to allow extra travel time when travelling through central Alexandra.

Weather forecast: wrap up warm

Today, (Friday 26 September) Cloudy periods with scattered showers, possibly heavy.

Conditions are expected to clear to fine this evening.

Tomorrow (Saturday 27 September) is forecast to be mainly fine with morning frosts. Afternoon and evening will see cloudy periods and a few spots of rain.

Fireworks and light show to dazzle tonight

Festival director and organiser Martin McPherson said tonight will feature a large fireworks display from around 8pm and a brand new light show never before seen in Alexandra.

Early bird tickets for Pioneer Park tomorrow are still available for the Early bird rate of $8 from Central Stories Museum and Unichem Pharmacy.

Festival organisers are encouraging attendees to dress warmly and arrive early for a good viewing spot.

Stay up to date with everything Blossom Festival in the special Central App section.