The much-anticipated Taunton Carnival returns on Saturday, October 18, 2025, bringing a spectacular display of illuminated carts and talented performers to Somerset’s county town. As the final event on the South Somerset Federation carnival circuit, this colourful procession promises an unforgettable evening filled with dazzling lights and celebration.
Starting promptly at 7 pm, the carnival features dozens of illuminated carts—some stretching up to 30 metres—accompanied by dancers, musicians, and entertainers. The procession typically wraps up by 10 pm, depending on the flow of the event.
Carnival Route and Road Closures
The procession will assemble at Tangier Way, although performances commence from the third way bridge. The route follows Wood Street, turns right onto Bridge Street, continues up North Street, then takes the first exit at the roundabout outside the Market House onto East Street, proceeds over East Reach, and concludes at the traffic lights at the bottom of East Reach.
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To ensure safety, parts of Castle Street (from Castle Street Car Park entrance to Tangier Car park entrance) and Tangier Way (from Riverain Court to Castle Street) will close at 2:30 pm. Road closures along the procession route—including Wood Street, Bridge Street, North Street, Fore Street, East Street, East Reach, and Chritchard Way—will begin at 6:30 pm, alongside Hammet Street and part of Corporation Street. Parking along the route is suspended from 6:30 pm, and vehicles left in prohibited areas may be towed.
Motorists can access and exit the Wood Street area next to Taunton Funeral Service via a temporary stop/go control system, but there will be no access to Tesco or Wellington Road through this area. Roads will reopen progressively once it is safe.
Parking and Accessibility
All Somerset Council car parks except Enfield will be open as usual; however, Orchard Multi-Storey will close at 7 pm. Enfield Car Park remains closed all day to facilitate carnival assembly. Organisers highly recommend arriving early and using public car parks such as Canon Street, Duke Street, Whirligig, Victoria Gate, Tangier, and Castle Street to secure parking.
If you prefer public transit, Taunton train station is within walking distance of the town centre and the carnival route.
Entry and Donations
There is no admission fee to watch the carnival. Spectators are welcome to stand behind the barriers lining the procession route. To help cover the event’s significant costs, donations are greatly appreciated. Donation points, including QR code posters for PayPal and contactless card payments, will be available throughout the town, along with collection tins and lorries during the carnival.
Celebrate the rich tradition of illuminated carnivals with Taunton kicking off the final South Somerset event before the Somerset circuit begins with Bridgwater Carnival on November 1.