The Fal River Festival, launched last year, takes place over two weeks, starting on Friday May 25.

A variety of events, from art, drama and food to sport and nature will take place from Truro to Falmouth.

The Festival opens with a reception at the Lander Gallery in Truro celebrating Up the Creek' a range of paintings inspired by the River Fal, from classic 19th Century watercolors to exciting contemporary artists.

At the mouth of the River Fal, on the launch evening, Cornwall's historic sport of gig racing will be celebrated by a series of races from Falmouth's Custom House Quay.

The activities have been designed to suit all ages and interests. Throughout the Festival a range of family activities will be on offer, from the multi-sensory theatre production of Waylaid in a specially constructed dome in Falmouth, to a fun range of Treasure Trails encouraging visitors to look more closely and spot clues in the buildings and environment of the River Fal.

Jemima Ball, Festival co-coordinator said: "The return of the Festival brings a range of exciting new events and activities back to the Fal, to celebrate the diversity of the area. The River Fal has long been a focal point for transport, trading, activities and leisure pursuits, and that's why the Fal River Festival literally offers something for everyone."

On the water, Sail Cornwall is offering learn to sail courses, while a series of Maritime History cruises down the Fal will run as part of the Festival.

The natural beauty of the River Fal will be brought to life by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust, which is leading a programme of conservation events during the Festival, including an otter walk on 30 May.

The creativity inspired by the River Fal means there are a huge number of art events during the Festival, with venues including the Lemon Street Gallery in Truro, the Salone di Limone in Falmouth and glassmaking at the Malcolm Sutcliffe gallery and studio in Penryn.

Meanwhile, the Hall for Cornwall theatre is supporting the Festival with artists including jazz by renowned performer Clare Teal, comedienne Faith Brown and the Blues Band.

Events are also taking place in some of Cornwall's most striking venues, including the waterfront National Maritime Museum, Pendennis Castle and the National Trust's Trelissick Gardens.

The Fal River Festival runs from May 25 until June 10.

All of the Festival venues are linked together by a comprehensive transport network, operating under the Fal River Links umbrella.

This includes ferry services between Truro, Falmouth and St Mawes, with the King Harry vehicle ferry providing a rapid route into the heart of the Roseland Peninsula. More information is available from the links below.