BRIDGWATER Carnival 2023 is rapidly approaching, with less than three weeks to go until the historic event returns to town on Saturday November 4.

As partaking clubs ramp up their preparations, the carnival's organisers have released a guide for those who have not attended the carnival before.

Here's everything to expect from your first ever Bridgwater Carnival.

  • This is a large event that attracts tens of thousands of visitors to a mediumsized rural Somerset town, so it will be VERY busy!
  • Bridgwater Carnival goes ahead whatever the weather!
  • You do not need to buy a ticket to watch Bridgwater Carnival unless you wish to sit in a grandstand seat or enjoy a hospitality package (both of these always sell out in advance of the day). There is plenty of space to stand along the 1.7 mile long route.
  • It is best to arrive as early as you can to find car parking and secure your place on the route. Road closures will be in place (generally from 4pm but precise details will be issued nearer the time).
  • Please DO NOT park illegally or inconsiderately. There are official charity park and rides, car parks and other public car parks. No overnight parking is allowed, this includes overnight parking of motorhomes.
  • Be prepared to queue (for toilets, car parks, park and rides etc), please be patient.
  • Wrap up warm and be prepared for wet weather just in case – it’s November!
  • Important to note that despite our best efforts there may be unofficial traders selling light-up toys, balloons etc on the route. These are NOT associated with our carnival and no money comes to the event as a result.
  • Be prepared to stand for a long period of time (unless you have booked a grandstand seat/hospitality). Please do NOT stand in the road.
  • The illuminated carnival procession takes approximately two hours to pass any one point on the route and is a mixture of carnival carts (some 100ft long!), walking entries (groups and individuals), marching bands and charity collection carts.
  • Sometimes unavoidable gaps appear in the carnival procession. We do absolutely everything we can to reduce these but it is not always possible.
  • If you don’t like large crowds or noise, we recommend you watch our carnival online via our live stream.
  • Please don’t bring dogs or animals to our carnival unless they are for assistance purposes.
  • Mobile phone signal/service is often reduced during the event due to the sheer number of people in our town.
  • After the carnival procession finishes there is a unique firework display held on the High Street called ‘squibbing’. It gets VERY busy in this area and squibbing is viewed entirely at your own risk.
  • Bridgwater Carnival is organised ENTIRELY by volunteers! Please respect our stewards, marshals and road crews as they are there for your safety.
  • PLEASE give generously to our official charity collection which supports many local charities, community groups and also the future running of the event. You can donate in person, via text or online. Official collectors wear i.d badges.

Full information on all the official charity car parks for Bridgwater Carnival can be found here.

For more information, check out the full first time visitors guide, or visit the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival official website.