Bridgwater Carnival in Somerset is Europe’s largest illuminated carnival and is an amazing procession of approximately 120 floats (or ‘carts’ as they are known locally) all illuminated with thousands of bulbs. Each cart is also very lively with tens of performers all wearing bright outfits and performing highly professional synchronised dancing and singing. A spectacle that must be seen to be believed!

Carnival clubs work tirelessly all year round to provide incredible entertainment for an estimated 150,000 crowd who line the streets for the carnival that starts at 7pm. Each year the carnival raises thousands of pounds for local charities in Somerset.

Bridgwater Carnival president “Doug Robson” said “It will be the biggest carnival yet and an amazing procession.”

Bridgwater Carnival is known as the Guy Fawkes carnival and, since 2001, is held on the first Friday in November.

It is believed the first form of the carnival was held in 1605 the year of the Gunpowder plot.

The first formal carnival procession was held in 1881 and has run every year since, which justifies Bridgwater’s proud claim as “Home of Carnival”.

Another unique aspect of Bridgwater carnival is the Squibbing which takes shortly afterwards, around 10:30pm. A Squib is a firework, like a powerful Roman Candle, attached to an 8ft pole known as a cosh.
A person holds the cosh above their head and when the Squib is lit it fires a huge plume of sparkling fire 20ft into the air that runs for around 60 seconds.

Approximately 180 people take part from the various carnival clubs to create an amazing and unique display of brightness.

The National Pages supports Bridgwater carnival as our sister company (who design and build The National Pages) Somerset Web Services design and built the Bridgwater Carnival website at no charge as our contribution towards the local charity.

We are looking forward to another fantastic Bridgy Carnival tonight!