Worcester will host a nine-day celebration of its heritage, marking the return of the popular Love Worcester programme of events.

This celebration calls upon residents to step out of their homes and into the rich history of the area, with activities slated for Friday February 9 through to Sunday, February 18.

Churches, museums, libraries and many other public venues across the city are delving into the archives to put forward a family-friendly and widely accessible set of events.

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A special highlight on Saturday, February 10, will be St Swithun’s Church’s ‘Rave in the Nave’, promising two hours of family-friendly music, arts and crafts, and face painting.

On the same day an excursion into the world of Magical Maps will take place in Hive Children’s Library.

Light Night Worcester is also back on the calendar, set for Wednesday 14 and Thursday, February 15.

Severn Arts is setting the stage for the city centre to be lit up with light displays, creative installations and artistic commissions.

The event is free and runs from 6pm to 9pm on both nights.

Living History weekend is next up, taking place on Saturday 17 and Sunday, February 18.

The city centre will host 200 re-enactors, portraying 2000 years of history across six venues.

This event will highlight eras such as the Roman, Viking, Medieval, English Civil Wars and Napoleonic periods and beyond.

A variety events will be held across both days, like the World War I and World War II military vehicle showcase in Cathedral Square, among others.

Activities solely on Saturday are also aplenty, including World War I and World War II displays in Guildhall and history groups at St Helen’s Church.

History enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Sheena Payne-Lunn, Worcester’s historic and environment record officer, is holding a book signing session for her books Worcester Life Stories and The Big Quiz Edition at the Tourist Information Centre in the Guildhall, from 12pm until 2pm on Saturday, February 17.

Cllr Hannah Cooper, vice chair of Worcester City Council’s place and economic development, said: "There’s always plenty to do and see in our wonderful city, and the Love Worcester events are the perfect chance to experience all that Worcester has to offer."

Additionally, the Museum of Royal Worcester will mark Chinese New Year on Sunday, February 18, teaming up with the Worcestershire Chinese Association for a Dragon Dance at 12.30pm.