HUNDREDS of revellers are expected to join 80s pop group Black Lace this weekend to kick off Gravesham’s Big 7 Festival.

The Big Gig, an afternoon of free family entertainment on the Bandstand at Fort Gardens in Gravesend, will officially launch the festival on Sunday.

Families can enjoy an opening performance at 1.30pm from Brazilian musicians Bloco Fogo followed by sets from world music and dance group Cohesion Plus, Bhangra artist Foji, Taxi Run and Bollywood and Bhangra dance group Saheli Dancers.

Rising rap star Kads Malone will take to the stage at 4.30pm, followed by Swan Valley School’s Irish Dancers at 4.50pm. The afternoon ends in true 80s style with Black Lace taking to the stage at 5.15pm.

The festival continues on Monday as Phase Five Steel Band brings the sound of the Caribbean to Gravesend at noon in the Civic Square, Windmill Street.

This free lunchtime concert will get you up on your feet as the band play a variety of music from ballads to calypso and soca through to up tempo gospel.

The festival, which is now in its third year and runs until July 23, is organised by Gravesham Borough Council in partnership with Kent Equality Cohesion Council, Cohesion Plus, Humingbirds and Procom.

There are lots more exciting events taking place throughout the week including the annual Big Day Out and Party on the Prom on the final day.

For more information, visit gravesham.gov.uk