The internationally acclaimed Bridgwater Carnival is gearing up to welcome tens of thousands of spectators for its 2025 celebration, promising to be the biggest and most spectacular event yet.
Organized by the Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival Association (SCGFCA), the carnival season features seven major events. It kicks off in Bridgwater on the first Saturday of November, followed by Burnham-on-Sea, Weston-super-Mare, North Petherton, Shepton Mallet, Wells, and concludes in Glastonbury on the third Saturday of the month.
As one of Europe’s largest illuminated parades, the Bridgwater Carnival attracts visitors nationally and internationally. Beyond the stunning visual display, the event raises substantial funds for charities and generates significant economic benefits for the local community.
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Procession Route and Timings:
- Procession Line Up: from 10:00 AM
- Pre-Procession: 5:30 PM
- Main Procession Start: 6:00 PM
- Key locations and timings include Bath Road (6:15 PM), Cross Rifles Roundabout (6:25 PM), Grandstands (6:40 PM to 6:50 PM), St Mary’s Street (7:10 PM), Cornhill with restricted access (7:15 PM - 7:20 PM), High Street Squibbing (from approx. 10:30 PM), Penel Orlieu (7:30 PM), Mount Street (7:35 PM - 7:40 PM), Northgate (7:45 PM), with the procession concluding at 8:00 PM.
Road Closures and Parking:
Road closures will begin at 11:00 AM on the day of the event to ensure public safety and smooth procession flow.
Park and ride services are available from junction 23 at Dunball (HPC) and junction 24 of the M5 (livestock market site). These shuttles operate between 2:00 PM and 11:30 PM, running between the parking sites and the town centre. Parking and shuttle combined cost £17 per car, which includes passengers’ fares. All vehicles must vacate parking areas by midnight when the sites close.
Additional official carnival car parks will be open throughout the town, with varied opening times from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM, all closing at midnight. Parking fees are £10 for cars and £20 for minibuses.
Squibbing Display:
Following the procession, the traditional Squibbing Display will begin approximately 30 minutes after the last entry passes the finish line on the High Street, providing a thrilling finale for carnival-goers.
Spectator Information:
Spectators are welcome to stand behind barriers along the procession route. Donations to charity are encouraged and collection points will be available.
Getting There:
Residents and visitors can conveniently travel to Bridgwater via the Great Western Railway, with the town centre located a short walk from the station.
Prepare to experience an unforgettable evening filled with dazzling lights, vibrant performances, and community spirit at Bridgwater Carnival 2025.