The much-anticipated dates for the 2026 illuminated carnival processions across the South West have now been confirmed, promising a dazzling display of creativity and tradition throughout the region this autumn.
From East Devon to Somerset County, towns will come alive with vibrant illuminated carts thrilling thousands of spectators along the East Devon, South Somerset, Wessex, and Somerset County circuits. The festivities kick off on the first Saturday of September with the East Devon carnival in Seaton, followed by the circuits in Wessex, South Somerset, and culminating in the iconic Bridgwater Carnival on Saturday, November 7.
Last year’s carnivals captured a global audience, thanks in part to the viral success of Globe CC’s ‘Jesters Haunt’ cart, which amassed tens of millions of TikTok views. The event continues to celebrate the ingenuity and artistry of its many participants.
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The competition was fierce in 2025, with Huckyduck Carnival Club and Ramblers Carnival Club sharing the County Cup after sweeping all seven carnivals. Huckyduck’s ‘Scarecrow Partea’ tableau secured The Starkey Cup for the fourth consecutive year, while Ramblers’ ‘1912 - All Out’ entry won the feature class, sharing top honors.
The Somerset circuit unfolds annually beginning with Bridgwater’s procession on the first Saturday in November, followed by Burnham-on-Sea, Weston-super-Mare, North Petherton, Shepton Mallet, Wells, and concluding in Glastonbury on the third Saturday in November.
Ahead of the Somerset circuit, carnivals light up towns such as Wellington, Ilminster, Chard, and Taunton in South Somerset; Mere, Frome, Wincanton, Castle Cary, Trowbridge, and Warminster in Wessex; as well as South Petherton, Seaton, Colyton, Axminster, Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton, Honiton, and Ottery St Mary in East Devon.
Below are the confirmed dates for all illuminated carnivals across the South West this autumn:
East Devon Circuit
Seaton - Saturday, 5 September, 8:00 pm
Colyton - Saturday, 12 September, 8:00 pm
Axminster - Saturday, 19 September, 8:00 pm
Sidmouth - Saturday, 26 September, 7:30 pm
Budleigh Salterton - Saturday, 3 October, 7:30 pm
Ottery St. Mary - Friday, 16 October, 8:00 pm
Honiton - Saturday, 24 October, 7:30 pm
Wessex Grand Prix
Mere - Saturday, 19 September, 7:30 pm
Frome - Saturday, 26 September, 7:00 pm
Shaftesbury - Saturday, 3 October, 7:15 pm
Gillingham - Saturday, 10 October, 7:15 pm
Wincanton - Friday, 16 October, 7:30 pm
Castle Cary - Saturday, 17 October, 7:00 pm
Trowbridge - Saturday, 18 October, 7:00 pm
Warminster - Saturday, 31 October, 6:45 pm
South Somerset Federation
Wellington - Saturday, 26 September, 7:30 pm
Ilminster - Saturday, 3 October, 7:15 pm
Chard - Saturday, 10 October, 7:30 pm
Taunton - Saturday, 17 October, 7:00 pm
Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival Association
Bridgwater - Saturday, 7 November, 6:00 pm
Burnham-on-Sea - Monday, 9 November, 7:30 pm
Weston-super-Mare - Friday, 13 November, 7:00 pm
North Petherton - Saturday, 14 November, 7:00 pm
Shepton Mallet - Wednesday, 18 November, 7:30 pm
Wells - Friday, 20 November, 7:00 pm
Glastonbury - Saturday, 21 November, 6:45 pm
Independent Carnivals
South Petherton - Saturday, 12 September, 7:30 pm
Midsomer Norton - Monday, 16 November, 7:30 pm
Renowned as one of Europe’s largest illuminated processions, these carnivals attract tens of thousands of visitors each year from across the UK and worldwide. Alongside their cultural significance, these events generate substantial funds for charitable causes and contribute greatly to the regional economy.
For those travelling from afar seeking accommodation, several charming options abound across the South West. Among them is Fortnight Manor Farm, a Grade II listed Georgian manor just outside Bath, offering a grand setting steeped in history and close to key filming locations that have recently gained notoriety on TikTok.
Nestled in the tranquil Quantocks, Summer Lodge in Nether Stowey is a five-star holiday cottage praised for its cleanliness and comfort, featuring amenities such as a hot tub and breathtaking views of the Somerset Levels.
Further afield, The Old Reading Room in Bledington, a quaint Cotswold village, offers a cozy retreat close to attractions like Jeremy Clarkson’s famous Diddly Squat Farm.
With the spectacular carnivals and stunning accommodations, this autumn promises an unforgettable cultural experience in Somerset and the South West.