The tradition dates back to at least the 1600s when various parts of Somerset commemorated the Gunpowder Plot. Today, the carnival is a vibrant celebration featuring open-air entertainment, fairgrounds, street food, and late-night shopping and dining. It’s an unmissable spectacle that brings the entire community together for an unforgettable night!
Carnival season takes place over several weeks in October and November, with each town in Somerset hosting its own event. So, don’t worry, there are plenty of opportunities to catch the magic! With multiple dates to choose from, you’re sure to find time to experience this incredible spectacle. Check out the full schedule here.
Forget the quiet life. Bridgwater Carnival has been lighting up the night since 1847 and was inspired by the famous tale of how Guy Fawkes tried (and failed!) to blow up Parliament in 1605. Fast-forward a few hundred years, and this wild celebration is now one of the brightest in the world.
The celebration kicks off in October with a packed-out concert. But the real magic happens in November when volunteers pull out all the stops for what’s likely the largest illuminated carnival on the planet.
Oh, and did we mention the “Squibbing” finale? Imagine over 140 fireworks (aka squibs) going off in sync along the High Street… right at arm’s length! It’s a Bridgwater exclusive. Sure, the squibs don’t have the bang they used to, but they still light up the night in spectacular style.
At Virtual Headquarters, we’re lucky enough to have an office building in Bridgwater. The team and tenants there can head to the carnival after work, which is a great way to bond!
The carnival brings a whopping £40 million boost to the local economy! It’s like a cash parade for local businesses, especially for accommodation providers, retailers, pubs, and leisure spots.
While the crowds enjoy the festive atmosphere, around £120,000 is raised during the parade. This money goes straight into staging these spectacular events the following year and supporting local charities.
During carnival nights, local restaurants stay open late, drawing in hungry crowds looking to refuel and warm up before and after the festivities. Many even roll out special carnival deals, raking in extra revenue while keeping everyone well-fed and ready to party!
As folks flock from all over to soak in the carnival magic, local accommodations are all too happy to swing open their doors. They often crank up their rates, and for many, this is their one chance to sell out all year!
Here are a few places to stay:
The Old Vicarage Bridgwater even often weekend packages!
Walnut Tree Hotel
The Old Oaks
But it doesn’t stop there, lots of local businesses jump at the chance to sponsor floats, using the carnival as a prime opportunity for brand visibility. Taunton Carnival proudly declares it a fantastic way for businesses to get their name out there. So, it’s a win-win all around!
You’ve really got to appreciate the immense skill and effort behind every aspect of the carnival. From the intricate designs to the builds that take months to perfect, it’s a serious labour of love. And then there are the performers, especially the kids, who power through night after night in all kinds of weather. Some of the performers are almost statuesque, holding the same positions for the duration of the carnival route! Their dedication is something else – it’s inspiring.
Here’s a fun little tidbit: one of our very own at Virtual HQ (not naming any names!) has been involved with the Bridgwater Carnival for years. In fact, it’s how she met her husband!
During the carnival, you’ll find donation points all around, plus you can easily give online, too! Everyone involved, from the float designers and builders to the drivers and performers, dedicates a whole year of their time and energy, all for free. And it pays off!
Together, they raise thousands of pounds for charity. So, if you enjoy the show, why not chip in and keep the carnival spirit (and the donations) going strong? The BBC reported £35k went to local charities last year alone!
It’s a tradition that must be kept alive. The economic crunch is making it tough for clubs to keep their floats on the road, with costs soaring to £20,000 or more!
While the number of floats has dipped since the glorious ’90s, the carnival spirit endures. It’s weathered many a storm and continues to thrive in the southwest of England, playing a vital role in the fabric of local life for over 400 years. With a little love and support, this cherished tradition will keep lighting up our communities for years to come!
