The largest illuminated Carnival procession in Europe

Origins of Bridgwater Carnival date back to the 1605 Gunpowder Plot.

Early celebrations focused on a bonfire in the town centre where townsfolk in costume congregated for an evening of merrymaking, including igniting homemade fireworks – Bridgwater Squibs.

Celebrations were first officially organised in 1881 with a parade to the bonfire when effigies of Guy Fawkes were used to fuel the flames.

This annual carnival held every year since 1881 apart from the war years is now held on the 1st Saturday in November each year attracting many thousands of visitors to our town from all over the U.K.

Bridgwater Carnival is totally community led and driven by the enthusiasm, passion and commitment of volunteers. We do not employ any staff to help organise the carnival, and we estimate over 2,000 volunteers (organisers and participants) were involved with the overall organisation and participation of Bridgwater Carnival 2015.

SEEING IS BELIEVING…!