Sidmouth will host the fourth and final event of the East Devon carnival circuit on Saturday, 27 September 2025. The lively procession promises a spectacular evening as decorated carts and performers parade through the town, following earlier festivities in Seaton, Colyton, and Axminster.
The procession kicks off at 7:30 pm on Woolbrook Road and will proceed along Arcot Road, Temple Street, Vicarage Road, Radway, High Street, Fore Street, and conclude at the Esplanade at the foot of Fore Street. Residents and visitors are encouraged to come out and enjoy the vibrant displays and community spirit.
Please note that certain road closures will be in effect to ensure the safety of participants and spectators. From 4 pm to 8 pm, Ice House Lane through to Balfours will be closed to accommodate the holding area for carnival carts. In addition, rolling road closures will take place along the procession route starting at 7 pm.
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Sidmouth’s carnival coincides with the start of the South Somerset circuit in Wellington, showcasing the rich tradition of illuminated carnivals across the South West. Below is a list of key carnival dates in the region for autumn 2025:
East Devon Circuit:
- Sidmouth: Saturday 27 September, 7:30 pm
- Budleigh Salterton: Saturday 4 October, 7:30 pm
- Honiton: Saturday 25 October, 7:30 pm
- Ottery St. Mary: Saturday 1 November, 7:30 pm
Wessex Grand Prix:
- Shaftesbury: Saturday 27 September, 7:15 pm
- Gillingham: Saturday 4 October, 7:15 pm
- Wincanton: Friday 10 October, 7:30 pm
- Castle Cary: Saturday 11 October, 7:00 pm
- Trowbridge: Saturday 18 October, 7:00 pm
- Warminster: Saturday 25 October, 6:45 pm
South Somerset Federation:
- Wellington: Saturday 27 September, 7:30 pm
- Ilminster: Saturday 4 October, 7:15 pm
- Chard: Saturday 11 October, 7:30 pm
- Taunton: Saturday 18 October, 7:00 pm
Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival Association:
- Bridgwater: Saturday 1 November, 6:00 pm
- Burnham-on-Sea: Monday 3 November, 7:30 pm
- Weston-super-Mare: Friday 7 November, 7:00 pm
- North Petherton: Saturday 8 November, 7:00 pm
- Shepton Mallet: Wednesday 12 November, 7:30 pm
- Wells: Friday 14 November, 7:00 pm
- Glastonbury: Saturday 15 November, 6:45 pm
Independent Carnivals:
- Midsomer Norton: Monday 10 November, 7:30 pm
With a rich calendar of events, communities across the South West come alive with dazzling lights, music, and celebration throughout the autumn months. Make sure to plan your travel accordingly to enjoy the festivities safely.