Thousands gathered to celebrate the Sikh festival of Vaisakhi last weekend.

The religious and cultural extravaganza marks the New Year, and is one of the most important dates in the calendar for Gravesend's Sikh community.

Festivities took over the town centre and were enjoyed by people of all races and cultures.

Spectators were treated to a vibrant display of dance, music and martial arts, alongside a lavish spread of free food.

Gravesend is home to some of the biggest Vaisakhi celebrations in the country.

On Saturday, a procession started at the Guru Nanak Marg, the largest Sikh temple in the UK, and spent two hours winding its way through the town.

For more pictures, pick up a copy of tomorrow's Gravesend Messenger.