Excitement is building as a village prepares to welcome thousands of visitors for a celebration of art and heritage.

More than 9,000 people are expected at the Saltaire Arts Trail, which previews tomorrow night and runs until Monday.

The annual event is the culmination of months of work and will showcase work by more than 90 artists from across the country.

Home owners and traders will throw open their doors to welcome visitors to view art, a makers’ fair will have 52 stalls featuring original creations and this year’s event has the biggest-ever offering of family activities, with a ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ theme.

Three exhibitions include one in the former Shimu shop in Victoria Road, called Gifts From the Pavement, by Alice Fox.

Mrs Fox is a trustee board member of Trail organisers Saltaire Inspired, a local charity, and has been involved with the event for several years.

She said: “I remember from previous years this last week or so is always quite stressful, mixed with excitement, but when it gets to the event and you see people with the brochure and kids with balloons, there’s a real buzz. You think it’s all worth it.”

Laura Ryder moved to Saltaire in September and is opening her home at 35 Mary Street to visitors to see work by four artists, including watercolours by Jane Fielder. The Bingley-based painter said: “I’ve tried to get on the Trail before, but never got in. I’m really excited about it.”

Miss Ryder, 34, is hugely positive about opening her home, not only to share a range of art but also to show off village life.

“I’m really passionate about the community and building the community and I just think it’s a really good opportunity. I like being positive and hosting people, it fits in with everything I’m enthusiastic about and believe in,” she said.

“I want people to come in and have a great time and facilitate a great exhibition for the artists.”

For the first time an Arts Trail App, funded by Arts Council England, will help guide smart phone users around the festival. People can also view art set to music, learn more about the artists involved and visit a virtual workshop.

The event will be opened by Lord Wallace of Saltaire and the Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Khadim Hussain at Salts Mill, but the majority of attractions will be open from 10am on Saturday.