The world-famous Bridgwater Carnival is back in 2025, promising an unforgettable evening filled with vibrant illuminated floats and lively festivities. Drawing tens of thousands of spectators, the carnival is known as one of Europe’s largest illuminated processions and is a highlight in the Somerset calendar.
Organised by the Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival Association (SCGFCA), which includes seven carnivals across the county, Bridgwater kicks off the series on the first Saturday of November. This is followed by events in Burnham-on-Sea, Weston-super-Mare, North Petherton, Shepton Mallet, Wells, and finally Glastonbury, concluding mid-November.
Beyond its stunning spectacle, the carnival plays a vital role in supporting local charities and boosting Somerset’s economy. For 2025, organisers expect the event to be bigger and more spectacular than ever.
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Procession Route and Timings
The procession lineup begins at 10:00 am, with the pre-procession starting at 5:30 pm and the main procession commencing promptly at 6:00 pm. Key landmarks along the route include Bath Road, Cross Rifles Roundabout, and the town’s Grandstands, with the procession concluding by 8:00 pm. The famous Squibbing display, a traditional firework finale, will take place approximately 30 minutes after the last float crosses the finish line on High Street.
Road Closures
To ensure safety and smooth operations, several roads will be closed from 11:00 am onwards throughout the day. Spectators are advised to plan their journey accordingly.
Parking and Park & Ride
Convenient park and ride services will operate from 2:00 pm to 11:30 pm at two locations: Junction 23 at Dunball (HPC site) and Junction 24 of the M5 (livestock market site). Buses will shuttle visitors to and from the town centre, with pick-ups after the procession from the drop-off points.
Parking costs £17 per car, covering all passengers, and closing time for the park and ride sites is midnight. In addition to park and ride, several official carnival car parks are available throughout Bridgwater. Car parking is priced at £10 for cars and £20 for minibuses, with all car parks closing at midnight.
Please note that vehicles must be removed by midnight, though this may be adjusted in case of procession delays.
Spectator Information
Spectators are welcome to stand behind barriers along the procession route free of charge, but donations to the supported charities are encouraged. For those travelling by train, Bridgwater’s Great Western Railway station is a short walk from the town centre, making it an easy and convenient option.
Prepare for a night of dazzling lights, community spirit, and centuries-old tradition at Bridgwater Carnival 2025!