HELP ~  Needed for Shepton Mallet Carnival

New members welcome, please help us keep this Somerset tradition alive for all ages to enjoy. The November Illuminated Carnivals are a Somerset tradition that families far and wide have loved for a very long time. Every year the organising becomes more difficult, with rising costs, insurance, public safety, road closures and many other factors. 

Shepton Mallet Carnival Committee are looking for more members, to help with the build up before and during carnival night to ensure a safe evening for all.

 Please contact us for more info new members are always welcome.

Somerset Carnivals - a brief history

Traditionally held early November to commemorate the attempted blowing up of the Houses of Parliament. Somerset Carnivals are very highly regarded as the largest spectacular illuminated processions in the world.

The Somerset Carnivals date back more than 400 years, and are one of the most spectacular unique events in Somerset today. Carts as they are referred to in Somerset, are designed and built by dedicated carnival clubs around the West Country.

These carnival clubs raise money throughout the year, and work relentlessly to achieve their spectacular carnival entries. 

Their completed cart then takes part in the carnival parade along with over 100 other entries, these range from single masqueraders dancing in the streets to 100ft illuminated carnival carts, some with up to 30,000 light bulbs, these will be in the categories of tableau, feature or comic all pulled by decorated tractors.

Please show your support for their efforts and give generously, all profits are distributed to local charities and community groups. 

Road Closure Information

Road Closures Monday 11th November to Wednesday 13th November 2024

* Expected Road Closures* - final planning pending

Build up to the event will start on Monday 11th November.

Visit our road closure page here

Recommended Best

 Viewing Area

For a more comfortable viewing experience try Charlton Road or Whitstone Road, excellent view for photographs.

The start area and town center get very crowded.

Shepton Mallet Carnival

Shepton Mallet Carnival Committee

 always welcomes new members.

For more info please contact us

The Guy Fawkes Circuit 2025 November Dates   

Bridgwater - Saturday 1st at 6:00pm

Burnham on Sea - Monday 3rd at 7:30pm

Weston-Super-Mare - Friday 7th  at 7:00pm

North Petherton - Saturday 8th at 7:00pm

Midsomer Norton - Monday 10th  at 7:15pm

Shepton Mallet - Wednesday 12th  at 7:30pm

Wells - Friday 14th  at 7:00pm

Glastonbury - Saturday 15th  at 7:00pm