The Somerset Carnivals are among the largest and most vibrant illuminated procession events in Europe, drawing over 100,000 spectators annually. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, these autumnal celebrations illuminate towns across Somerset and neighboring counties with dazzling carts, elaborate costumes, and lively performances. If you’ve never experienced the thrill of a Somerset Carnival, here’s your comprehensive guide to ensure you don’t miss out.
Rich History and Cultural Significance
The carnivals trace back to pagan light festivals marking the onset of winter darkness, evolving in Somerset since the 1600s. They commemorated the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605, blending historical significance with joyful community celebration. Today, they’re major cultural events in the West Country calendar, drawing audiences from far and wide.
Carnival Circuits and Schedule
The carnival season begins in late August with three distinct ‘circuits’: the Wessex Grand Prix, East Devon, and South Somerset Circuits. These smaller events spread across Wiltshire, Dorset, Devon, and Somerset feature local carnival clubs presenting illuminated carts in various towns on Saturday evenings throughout September and October.
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After the clocks go back in November, all entrants unite for the spectacular Guy Fawkes Circuit. This grand finale spans two intense weeks and includes eight different towns hosting large-scale carnival processions with colossal illuminated carts and performances.
More Than Just Bridgwater
While Bridgwater hosts the biggest and most famous carnival, it’s just one of eight events on the circuit. Each carnival offers a similar dazzling experience, so if you prefer smaller crowds or different locales, attending another town’s carnival is equally rewarding.
Planning Your Visit
Parking near carnival towns can be challenging due to road closures and heavy foot traffic, typically starting a couple of hours before and lasting after the procession ends. To avoid being trapped behind road closures, it’s best to park on the less congested side of the town—often the Bristol side—and follow detailed road closure information available on each carnival’s website.
Arriving early is crucial to claim a good viewing spot, especially since crowds can be six-deep along the route. Remember, the processions can last between two to three hours, so factor this waiting time into your plans and bring camping chairs, blankets, snacks, drinks, sweets, and phone chargers. Dress warmly—November weather can be cold, wet, and windy.
Where to Watch
Carnival routes often stretch for a couple of miles, featuring rest sections where carts slow down, and participants may pause and relax. These stretches are usually less crowded and offer excellent viewing without the intense crush found in town centers. Check each carnival’s route in advance and consider these areas for a more comfortable experience.
Buying a Programme
Most carnivals sell programmes for a pound or two. These handy guides list every entrant, offering background information and helping you pick your favourites. Watching with family or friends? Use the programme to score and judge the entries for added fun!
The Carts: Not Floats
In Somerset, the large decorated vehicles are known as ‘carts’, not ‘floats’—using the latter term can mark you as a newbie. There are three main types:
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Grand Carts: These are the biggest and most visually stunning, featuring elaborate sound and lighting effects, often portraying historic or dramatic themes like pirate ships or famous battles.
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Comedy Carts: Bright and colorful, these entries focus on humor, clever gags, and lively performances rather than special effects.
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Tableau Carts: Less common but incredibly impressive, these displays involve participants frozen in character, creating living pictures that captivate spectators.
Junior carnival clubs, featuring children and teenagers, and regular clubs with participants of all ages both contribute to the vibrant procession. Interspersed among the large carts are smaller handmade entries, families, local dance groups, and cheerleading squads—be sure to cheer them on as they often get overlooked amidst the grandeur.
Supporting the Carnivals
The Somerset Carnivals rely heavily on donations. During the parades, volunteers collect coins from the crowd using small collection carts. Carry plenty of small change, especially 10p pieces, to contribute. Volunteers often exchange larger notes for coins before the events start.
Attending a Somerset Carnival is a magical experience filled with radiant lights, creative artistry, and community spirit. With this guide, you’re ready to enjoy one of the West Country’s most treasured traditions.