SKIES above Haringey will explode in dramatic bursts of colour tonight as Alexandra Palace's annual fireworks display gets underway.

Attracting crowds of up to 40,000, the spectactular display is touted as one of the most magnificent in London owing to its panormaic views of London.

The fireworks start 1t 7.30pm but Alexandra Palace Park opens at 4.30pm with entertainment for all the family including a funfair, bouncy castles and inflatable slides.

For the second year running the palace will also host a German beer festival where friendly frauleins in authentic Bavarian dress serve pints of German beer and food.

Adding to the carnival atmosphere will be Chas and his Band, fronted by Chas Hodges from cockney duo recently-split Chas & Dave.

The event runs from 4.30pm until 11pm with the fireworks going off with a bang at 7.30pm. For more information visit www.alexandrapalace.com or call 020 8365 4386.