Giant fish puppets and stilt-walking lobsters will be part of a two-day extravaganza for the Brighton Festival's Big Splash finale.

The weekend fiesta of free national and international street art will be the biggest and boldest Big Splash the Festival has had, culminating with a grand pyrotechnic display.

Brighton Marina will be transformed into a sea-themed spectacle complete with high-octane entertainment.

Samba bands, acrobats and huge sand sculptures will be among the highlights along with the high-wire, shark-infested show Fish Tales, courtesy of daredevil aerialists Heir of Insanity.

Visitors can also enjoy juggling rollerbladers, escapologists, fire-breathing mechanical horses, an oyster opera and a breathtaking ballet bungee.

Visitors will have a last chance to see the highly acclaimed Gamarjobat, who have been playing in the Festival all week, with their silent comedy that transcends all cultural and language boundaries.

Visitors can also step into the belly of a 50-foot sperm whale or take tea with the severed "head" of the table.

On Sunday night, there will be a firework finale by internationally acclaimed pyrotechnicians group The World Famous, who have a passion for playing with fire.

As part of the 40th anniversary Festival celebrations, the Oostershelde tall ship will be moored in the marina on Sunday from 12.30pm until dusk.

It is the first time the Dutch three-masted schooner has been moored in the marina and members of the crew will be available to take people around the ship and answer questions.

Michael Roberts, from The World Famous, said: "As an ex-resident of Brighton, the shows that we do in the city are always very special for me.

"This year we're back to celebrate the Festival's 40th birthday with a spectacular firework finale for the Big Splash. It's time to make some noise."

Brighton Marina's marketing manager Kirsty Harris said: "This is our fourth Big Splash in a row.

"Visitors can see some of the best entertainment in Europe, for free. It promises to be a wonderful weekend."

The event will be held at the Brighton Marina this Saturday from 1pm to 6pm and on Sunday from 1pm to 6pm and then 6.30pm to dusk.

For more information, visit www.brightonfestival.org