Somerset Carnivals

An ancient tradition that's the pride of Somerset

Somerset carnivals combine grand fireworks displays with street processions, fairgrounds and street food. Find out where to see a Somerset carnival this year.

Somerset carnivals are the highlight of the year for locals. The ritual dates back to at least the 1600s, when many parts of the county commemorated the Gunpowder Plot. Today, it’s a combination of open-air entertainment, fairgrounds, street food and late-night openings for many shops and restaurants.

Many Somerset carnival carts are over 50 feet long and come covered in intricate themed designs featuring moving parts and thousands of light bulbs - not to mention the characters, all played by members of the local Carnival Clubs. Remember to bring plenty of loose change, as the proceeds from the coin-collection carts go to charity. Find out more about Somerset carnivals, times, dates and routes at the Somerset Carnivals official website

The World famous Bridgwater Carnival

Largest illuminated carnival in Europe

Bridgwater is famous for its carnival with the annual procession regarded as the largest, most spectacular, illuminated procession in Europe.
Around 50 carts, some as long as 100 foot, are accompanied by bands and masqueraders as they wend their way along the 1.7 mile route through the town....

Read more about the famous tradition of Squibbing!

Somerset Carnival Dates 2022

Bridgwater Carnival - Saturday 5th November - 6pm
Burham-on-Sea / Highbridge Carnival - Monday 7th November - 7:30pm
Weston-super-Mare Carnival - Friday 11th November - 7pm
North Petherton Carnival - Saturday 12th November - 7pm
Midsomer Norton Carnival - Monday 14th November - 7:30pm
Shepton Mallet Carnival - Wednesday 16th November - 7:30pm
Wells Carnival - Friday 18th November - 7pm
Glastonbury Carnival - Saturday 19th November - 7pm

Please note: All dates are yet to be set in place until the situation with coronavirus is known.

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