Guide to the Somerset Carnivals 2025
The Somerset Carnivals 2025 are among the most spectacular events in the UK, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors from near and far to experience the famous Somerset county carnivals. The evenings are filled with music, light, dancing and creativity. Each year, towns and villages across Somerset come alive with illuminated processions, vibrant costumes, and community celebrations that capture the true spirit of the county.
Kicking off with the world-renowned Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, the season promises unforgettable family fun. These incredible Somerset county carnivals showcase months of hard work by local carnival clubs, bringing together artistry, tradition, and a warm community atmosphere.
Read on for your complete guide to the Somerset Carnivals 2025, including routes, how to get there, and what to expect in each town.
The History of the Somerset Guy Fawkes Carnival
The Somerset Guy Fawkes Carnivals trace their origins to 1605 and the failed Gunpowder Plot. King James I ordered annual bonfires to mark the event, a tradition that continues across Britain today.
In Bridgwater, the celebrations grew with extra enthusiasm, becoming a local highlight each November. Early records show fireworks, known as Bridgwater Squibs, were already part of the festivities in the 1700s.
By the mid-19th century, these bonfire celebrations had evolved into a spectacular illuminated procession filled with lanterns and illuminated floats known as carts.
In 1881, after a particularly lively night led to disorder, townspeople formed a committee to create a safer, organised event. This became the first official Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival.
The early 20th century saw the formation of Bridgwater carnival clubs, though many had roots in the late 19th century. Over the years, the processions grew in scale and creativity.
Since then, Bridgwater has been recognised as the Home of Carnival, hosting the oldest illuminated carnival in the UK. The format established there inspired other Somerset towns to hold their own parades, forming the Somerset county carnivals.
 Today, the Somerset County Carnivals are recognised as the largest illuminated carnival circuit in Europe.
Somerset Carnival Clubs
Each cart has a theme created by dedicated local carnival clubs across Somerset. These are groups of volunteers who spend months designing, building, and decorating their stunning creations. Some carts stretch over 100 feet and feature thousands of lights, moving parts, and music.
Every cart is judged along the route, with awards for creativity, design, and performance. Well-known clubs such as Gremlins, Ramblers, Griffens, and Masqueraders compete for top awards throughout the Somerset carnival circuit. As well as putting on a dazzling show, they raise funds for local charities and bring communities together across the county.
Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival Association
The Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival Association (SCGFCA) unites seven spectacular Somerset county carnivals held every November.
The carnival circuit starts with Bridgwater on the first Saturday in November. Continuing with Burnham-on-Sea on Monday, Weston-super-Mare on Friday, and North Petherton on the second Saturday. Next is Shepton Mallet on Wednesday and Wells on Friday.
The circuit concludes with Glastonbury Carnival on the third Saturday in November, marking the end of the Somerset carnival 2025 season.
Together, these seven events form the official Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival circuit, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year. Midsomer Norton is an associate member of the carnival circuit so I have included it as well.
Somerset Carnival dates & routes 2025
Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival 2025
The Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival is the biggest and most famous of the Somerset County Carnivals. It now attracts 150,000 spectators each year and is the largest illuminated carnival in Europe.
When: Saturday 1st November 2025 at 18.00 hrs
What to expect: Over 50 illuminated carts, dance troupes, and the breathtaking finale known as Squibbing, where hundreds of people ignite fireworks simultaneously along the High Street.
The procession takes approximately two hours and attracts over 100,000 spectators annually.
Route: Begins at Bath Road and continues through Monmouth Street, Broadway, St Mary’s Street, and High Street before finishing at Mount Street. View/download the Bridgwater Carnival route here.
How to get there: Bridgwater is easy to reach from the M5 (junctions 23 and 24). Park and Ride services run on carnival night, and roads close early, so arrive in the afternoon.
Family tip: Wrap up warm and bring drinks and snacks. Arrive early to find a good viewing spot as Bridgwater gets very busy.
Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea Carnival 2025
The Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea Carnival is the second in the Somerset carnival 2025 circuit.
When: Monday 3rd November 2025 at 19.30 hrs
What to expect: AÂ stunning seafront parade of illuminated floats, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.
Each float has a creative theme and is judged for performance and design.
Route: The procession starts at Tesco roundabout, travels along Love Lane, Manor Road, Victoria Street, along High Street, then Marine Drive. It finishes opposite Burnham Holiday Village in Marine Drive. View the Burnham Carnival route here.
How to get there: Accessible from the M5 and A38, with parking near the seafront and in Highbridge.
Rail connections are available via Highbridge station.
Family tip: Arrive early to grab a good viewing spot by the Esplanade, as many roads in the town close at 6.30pm. Best places for parking are the Oxford Street Car park and the Pier Street car park although many side streets also have spaces.
Even better, arrive on Sunday for the annual seafront fireworks display which is scheduled to be held on Sunday November 2nd 2025.
Weston-super-Mare Carnival 2025
The Weston-super-Mare Carnival is one of the highlights of the Somerset county carnivals, bringing seaside sparkle to the Somerset carnival 2025 season.
This lively event combines traditional carnival flair with the charm of a coastal resort, attracting thousands of spectators.
When: Friday 7th November 2025. Starts at 7.00pm and finishes approx. 9.30pm.
What to expect: Expect hundreds of performers, illuminated floats, and family entertainment along Weston’s seafront and town centre. Each cart has a unique theme and is judged for design, lighting, and creativity. The atmosphere is electric, with live music, costumes, and laughter filling the night.
Route: There is a new route for 2025. The procession starts in its usual place at Locking Road car park adjacent to Tesco. Then travels into the Bus Hub adjacent to Tesco, continuing around past the Plaza Cinema briefly on Walliscote Road. Then turns right down Oxford Street towards the Sea Front. The parade takes left turn at the end of Oxford Street along the Beach Road, passing the Pirate Golf and the first small Beach Lawn before turning right and travelling along the Marine Parade. It then turns right by the Cabot Hotel into the rest area along Knightstone Road by the College. It proceeds onto South Parade, Waterloo Street, and the Boulevard turning right into Alfred Street, concluding at Locking Road. View Weston Carnival route here.
How to get there: Weston-super-Mare is easy to reach via the M5 (Junction 21) or by train to Weston-super-Mare Station, a short walk from the centre and seafront.
Parking is available along the Beach Lawns and in nearby public car parks, but spaces fill quickly.
Family tip: Bring warm clothes and a blanket for little ones.
Arrive early to grab a good viewing spot near the pier or Beach Lawns for the best family experience. There are lots of places to eat, including fish and chip takeaways and extra catering vans dotted about.
North Petherton Guy Fawkes Carnival 2025
The North Petherton Carnival is the highlight of the town’s calendar and known for its lively crowds and impressive displays. It follows closely after Weston super Mare, drawing visitors from across Somerset and beyond.
The illuminated carts fill the streets with sound and colour, as local carnival clubs compete for top prizes. Visitors should plan for busy roads and limited parking, but the festive atmosphere makes it worthwhile.
When: Saturday 8th November 2025 at 19.00 hrs.
Route: The procession will travel from the Rugby Club lay-by, along Taunton Road and Fore Street to the Huntworth Roundabout, just like in previous events. View the North Petherton Carnival route here.
How to get there: North Petherton is accessible via M5 Junction 24 or A38.
This year there are road closures and clearway parking restrictions will allow the closure of the A38 from Walford Cross to the Huntworth roundabout from 5.00 pm.
Parking is available at town centre car parks, but spaces fill quickly. This year, due to the road closures and parking restrictions, the North Petherton Carnival Committee have organised a park and ride service from the Taunton Gateway Park and Ride car park, which will take you to North Petherton at Huntworth Roundabout. There will be a short walk before you reach the carnival route.
There is a 1.8M height restriction on the car park. It’s £15 per car, and all money raised from this will go back into keeping carnival alive!
Midsomer Norton Carnival 2025
How to get there: Accessible via the A367 and local roads. Parking is available at Town Park and nearby side streets. Limited public transport; arrive early to avoid congestion.
Family tip: Arrive early to get a front-row spot. Bring warm clothing and a blanket for children, as November evenings are chilly.
Shepton Mallet Guy Fawkes Carnival 2025
The Shepton Mallet Carnival is part of the official Somerset carnival 2025 circuit, known for its vibrant illuminated floats and community atmosphere.
When: Wednesday 12th November 2025 at 19.30 hrs
What to expect: Expect colourful floats, marching bands, and walking groups. Each float has a unique theme and is judged along the route for design, creativity, and performance.
Route: The carnival procession will start outside of Mendip council offices and travel along Cannard’s Grave Road, High Street, and Market Place, finishing at 40 Whitstone Road. View the Shepton Mallet Carnival route here.
How to get there: Parking is available near the town centre and local car parks. Accessible via A37 and A361, with limited bus service. Local roads will be closed from 6.45pm (or earlier if necessary).
Family tip: Arrive early to secure a viewing spot. Recommended spots include Charlton Road or Whitstone Road which have an excellent view for photographs. Local food stalls are perfect for children and families.
Wells Guy Fawkes Carnival 2025
The Wells Carnival lights up England’s smallest city with stunning illuminated floats.
When: Friday 14th November 2025 at 19.00 hrs
What to expect: Expect tens of thousands of spectators gathering to witness an enchanting spectacle like no other. Watch in awe as brilliantly illuminated floats, vibrant marching bands, talented musicians, and energetic dance acts weave through the medieval streets of Wells, creating an unforgettable evening of colour and celebration.Â
Route: The procession will set off from Wells Relief Road (Shepton Mallet direction), making its way through Strawberry Way, Tucker Street, Chamberlain Street, Sadler Street, High Street, Broad Street, and Priory Road, before finishing at The Sherston Inn near the Priory Road roundabout. View the Wells Carnival route here.
How to get there: From M5 (junction 22) follow B3139 to Wells.
Parking is available (and Free after 6pm) at:
Tesco, Tucker Street
Tucker Street Council Car Park,
Princes Street Council Car Park
Whiting Way Council Car Park
Union Street Council Car Park
South Street Council Car Park
Family tip: Head to the Market Place early for the best views. Bring warm clothing and snacks for little ones.
If you’re planning a to make a day trip, read our Guide to visiting Wells with Kids.
Glastonbury Guy Fawkes Carnival 2025
The Glastonbury Carnival marks the finale of the Somerset county carnivals, ending the Somerset carnival 2025 season with spectacular displays.
When: Saturday 15th November 2025 at 19.00 hrs
What to expect: Huge illuminated floats, themed performances, and walking groups. Each float is judged for design, creativity, and entertainment.
Route: The Glastonbury Guy Fawkes Carnival route begins at Northload Roundabout, proceeds along the A39 to the Wirral Park Roundabout, then turns left onto the A361 (Street Road). From there, the procession continues down Magdalene Street and the High Street before turning left onto Wells Road to finish. View the Glastonbury Carnival route here.
How to get there: Parking is available on the outskirts of town; park-and-walk options recommended. Limited public transport; roads close early.
Family tip: Arrive early to secure a viewing spot. Combine the carnival with a daytime visit to Glastonbury Tor for amazing views. Make a day of it with our Guide to the Best Things to see and do in Glastonbury 2025.
Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival 2026 Dates
Here are the 2026 dates for the Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival Association (SCGFCA) circuit:
Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival – Saturday 7 November 2026 (starts at 6pm)Â
Highbridge & Burnham‑on‑Sea Carnival – Monday 9th November 2026
Weston‑super‑Mare Carnival – Friday 13th November 2026
North Petherton Carnival – Saturday 14th November 2026Â
Shepton Mallet Carnival – Wednesday 18th November 2026Â
Wells Carnival – Friday 20th November 2026
Glastonbury Carnival – Saturday 21st November 2026
Somerset Carnival FAQ
What date are the Somerset Carnivals?
The Somerset county carnivals take place throughout November. The season begins with the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival, followed by parades in Burnham-on-Sea, Weston-super-Mare, North Petherton, Shepton Mallet, Wells, and Glastonbury. Exact Somerset carnival dates 2025 are:
Somerset Guy Fawkes Carnival Dates, 2025
- Bridgwater – Saturday 1st November 2025 at 18.00 hrs
- Burnham on Sea – Monday 3rd November 2025 at 19.30 hrs
- Weston Super Mare – Friday 7th November 2025 at 19.00 hrs
- North Petherton – Saturday 8th November 2025 at 19.00 hrs
- Midsomer Norton – Monday 10th November 2025 at 19.30 hrs
- Shepton Mallet – Wednesday 12th November 2025 at 19.30 hrs
- Wells – Friday 14th November 2025 at 19.00 hrs
- Glastonbury – 15th November 2025 at 18.45 hrs
What is the oldest carnival in the UK?
The Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival holds the title as the oldest illuminated carnival in the UK, with records dating back to the 1840s. It’s the birthplace of the Somerset carnival tradition and remains a highlight of the Somerset county carnivals circuit.
Which is the biggest carnival in Somerset?
The Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival is also the biggest carnival in Somerset and one of the largest illuminated processions in Europe. It features hundreds of performers, giant themed floats, and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
What is the best carnival in the UK?
Many visitors and carnival enthusiasts consider Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival the best carnival in the UK for its history, scale, and incredible illuminated floats. However, each event on the Somerset carnival 2025 circuit, from Wells to Glastonbury, offers its own unique charm and community spirit.
Are the Somerset carnivals free to attend?
Yes! All Somerset county carnivals are free to watch. Volunteers collect donations during the parades to support local charities and future events. The suggested donation is £2 per person.
What time do the Somerset carnivals start?
Most processions begin between 7:00pm and 7:30pm, though start times vary. Bridgwater and Glastonbury Carnivals start earlier. It’s best to arrive early, as roads close ahead of the parades and parking fills quickly.
Can families attend the Somerset carnivals?
Absolutely! The Somerset carnival 2025 events are family-friendly, with music, lights, and entertainment for all ages. Bring warm clothing and ear protection for younger children.
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