The countdown is over—Bridgwater’s biggest event of the year is finally here! The renowned Guy Fawkes Carnival returns today with a full day of vibrant entertainment and an unforgettable illuminated parade.
Known as the largest illuminated procession in Europe, this world-famous carnival kicks off with street performances in the town centre from 10:30am until 5:30pm. Prepare to be amazed by a dazzling array of acts before the grand procession begins at 6pm.
Thousands of spectators are expected to line Bridgwater’s streets to witness the glowing display of illuminated carts. Following the parade, a thrilling squibbing (fireworks) show will light up High Street, featuring around 200 skilled squibbers.
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If you can’t be there in person, don’t worry! The entire event will be streamed live online starting at 7pm. Tune in at https://live.bridgwatercarnival.org.uk/ to experience the magic from home.
Please note road closures will begin from 4pm on all main routes into Bridgwater. Buses of Somerset will provide a convenient park and ride service from junctions 23 and 24 of the M5. The fare is £17 per car and £25 per minibus (flat rate for all passengers). This service runs from 2pm to 11:30pm.
For those driving in, official parking is available at ASDA, Wickes, Morrisons, B&M, West Quay, Polden Bower School, St Matthew’s Field, and Bridgwater and Taunton College. Parking costs £10 per car and £20 per minibus. Additionally, the Taunton Road junction will be closed to traffic from 4pm until approximately 8:30pm.
Carnival Day Entertainment Highlights:
High Street Performance Area
- 10:30 – Fox King Dance Academy
- 11:00 – Farmyard Circus
- 11:30 – Bridgwater Rock Choir
- 12:15 – Julia McDonald Dance Co
- 12:40 – The Saint Melonians
- 13:15 – Bridgwater Sea Cadets
- 13:45 – Farmyard Circus
- 14:15 – Felicity Footloose
- 14:50 – The Saint Melonians
- 15:30 – Street Heat Samba Band
- 16:00 – Felicity Footloose
- 16:50 – The Saint Melonians
St Mary’s Church
- 11:15 – Somerset Songbirds
- 12:00 – Wells City Band
- 14:15 – Bridgwater Rock Choir
Cornhill Stage (Carnival Day Music & Dance Festival)
- 10:30 – BTC Performing Arts
- 11:05 – Westcan
- 11:50 – Ashley Ross Quinn
- 12:35 – Shalana Serafina
- 13:05 – Jordan Hill
- 14:00 – The Vixens
- 14:30 – Chrystal Bliss
- 15:00 – Two Tone
- 15:45 – Ashley Ross Quinn
- 16:45 – Chrystal Bliss
Angel Place Shopping Centre
- 10:30 – MADE Community
- 11:30 – YouthTheatre
- 13:00 – Krazy Kev & Dinky
- 14:00 – YMTC
- 14:25 – Prof James Gordon’s Punch & Judy
- 15:00 – Jimmy Jay
- 15:45 – Krazy Kev & Dinky
- 16:30 – Prof James Gordon’s Punch & Judy
- 17:05 – Jimmy Jay
Town Centre Attractions
- Marvellous Magical Theatre
- Higher Beings (Stilt Walkers)
- Children’s Fairground Rides (starting at 5:40pm)
- Sounds of the Streets
For more details, visit www.bridgwatercarnival.org.uk and prepare for an unforgettable night celebrating community, creativity, and tradition!