The Christmas parade, A&P Show, opening of a new events centre and drag racing are all part of Tokoroa's Big Weekend on December 1 and 2.

Graeme Earles of the A&P Show Society says several community groups and organisations have combined to stage a weekend of non-stop action for all ages.

'For the past five years the A&P Show has combined with the Tokoroa Host Lions Club to co-ordinate the Christmas parade and the show. 'This year there's an additional highlight with the opening of the town's new events centre on Saturday too,” he says.

On Sunday Christmas in the Park will be staged by the combined churches and there will be drag racing at the Tokoroa airport. Drag cars from around the country will be on display at the A&P Show on Saturday.

This is the A&P Society's 75th show and as well as the cattle and horse events there will be a pet corner, and entertainment provided by Endurocross, Chelsea Marriner and her Dog Stars (of New Zealand's Got Talent fame), a magician, Mahon's Amusements, and Papa Crete, as well as local school bands and kapa haka groups performing on stage. The National Axeman's Association Championships will be held over the two days of the weekend too.

Graeme says the Tokoroa Big Weekend is a true community event well supported by local businesses and organisations as well as the public and attracts visitors from out of town too.

Admission to this year's A&P Show is free – to find out more go to: www.bigweekend.co.nz