The much-anticipated Taunton Carnival is back for 2025, promising an evening full of dazzling lights, colourful displays, and lively entertainment. As the finale of the South Somerset Federation carnival circuit, Taunton’s event will attract thousands of visitors eager to experience one of Somerset’s most beloved traditions.
Taking place on Saturday, October 18, the carnival showcases a spectacular procession featuring dozens of illuminated carts—some stretching up to 30 metres—accompanied by energetic dancers and musical performers. This year’s festivities kick off at 7:00 PM, with the procession expected to conclude around 10:00 PM, though timing may vary depending on procession flow.
The parade begins at Tangier Way, with the first performances starting at the third Way Bridge. From there, the route continues through Wood Street, Bridge Street, the Bridge, North Street, Fore Street, East Street, East Reach, and finishes at the traffic lights at the bottom of East Reach.
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Attending the carnival is completely free. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure the best viewing spots behind the barriers along the procession route. While entrance costs nothing, the event relies heavily on public donations to cover expenses. You’ll find QR code posters around the town for easy PayPal contributions, Tap and Pay donation machines on site, as well as traditional collection buckets circulating throughout the evening.
To ensure safety, several road closures and parking restrictions are in effect on the day of the carnival. Castle Street (between the Castle Street Car Park entrance and Tangier Car Park entrance) and Tangier Way (from Riverain Court to Castle Street) will close at 2:30 PM in preparation for the procession formation. The main procession route will close at 6:30 PM, including Wood Street, Bridge Street, The Bridge, North Street, Fore Street, East Street, East Reach, and Chritchard Way. Additionally, Hammet Street and part of Corporation Street will be closed to secure access points.
All parking along the route is suspended from 6:30 PM, with tow-away enforcement for vehicles left in restricted areas. Wood Street area access will be maintained via the road adjacent to Taunton Funeral Service, with stop/go controls replacing the usual one-way system. Access to Tesco and Wellington Road through this area will be closed.
Roads will reopen in stages once it is safe, and most Somerset Council car parks remain open as usual, except Enfield Car Park, which will be closed all day to facilitate carnival entry assembly. The Orchard Multi-Storey car park will close at 7:00 PM.
Limited parking is available on the night of the carnival, so early arrival and use of public car parks like Canon Street, Duke Street, Whirligig, Victoria Gate, Tangier, and Castle Street are highly recommended.
If you prefer not to drive, Taunton is easily accessible by train, and guests can conveniently walk from the train station to the town centre.
This year’s Taunton Carnival wraps up the South Somerset circuit before the Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival Association’s season begins in November, starting with the Bridgwater Carnival on November 1. Across the South West, many illuminated carnivals light up the autumn nights, carrying forward a cherished regional tradition.
Embrace the festive spirit and witness the magic of Taunton Carnival 2025—a brilliant celebration of community, creativity, and colourful pageantry.