Thousands of people packed the streets of Ely in celebration of the third annual Eel Festival this weekend.

Ely Standard: Ely’s Eel Festival. Picture: Steve Williams.Ely’s Eel Festival. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

Festival visitors enjoyed a family fun Saturday as the famous Eel Parade made its way through the city, with Ely’s ‘Ellie the Eel’ heading the carnival inspired procession.

Ely’s Samba Band led the parade down to the Waterside and into Jubilee Gardens where a host of eel-related activities took place.

In Jubilee Gardens there was a full programme of events, including folk music, eel pottery workshops, music and dancing, historical displays and re-enactments – as well as the chance to see some live eels.

Ely Standard: Lauren Rouse, of Grand Central, toasts the success of Eel Day with an 'eel-themed' cocktail. Photo: Michael RouseLauren Rouse, of Grand Central, toasts the success of Eel Day with an 'eel-themed' cocktail. Photo: Michael Rouse (Image: Archant)

As a new addition, visitors were spoilt for choice at the eel-themed food safari taking place around the town at Ely’s cafes, restaurants and food venues, which offered a range of quirky delights.

Mayday Sunday and bank holiday Monday offered a mix of stalls, children’s fair rides and family entertainment.

The weekend launched on Friday with an eel throwing competition for local businesses where The Atrium Club team was crowned the winners.