The Barnstaple Carnival Parade 2024

After several years without a parade, Barnstaple Carnival made its long-anticipated return on Saturday (September 20) igniting the town with vibrant displays and electrifying performances. Thousands of residents and visitors lined the streets to witness a spectacular procession, signalling the revival of a beloved annual tradition. Led by the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, the parade featured a dazzling array of floats, walking groups, and performers. Despite a weather forecast predicting rain, the carnival brought the town to life, with the community's excitement far outweighing any threat of showers. The supreme champion of the event, winning the coveted Jo Thompson Memorial Cup, was Xplosion Cheerleading. Their "Willy Wonka" themed float captivated the judges and audience alike, marking a triumphant return to the carnival scene. Xplosion also secured the top spot in the Class 1 Floats category, proving to be one of the event's standout performers. Local organisations dominated the competition across a range of categories. The Class 1 Floats saw Empowering Lives taking second place with their "Hawaiian Vibrations," while Paul's Garage representing the Children's Summer Club for the Community, secured third. In the Class 3 Walking entries, St Michael's Nursery charmed the audience with their "My Favourite Book" theme, clinching first place. Zero 7 followed closely with their creative take on "Snow White," taking second. The Class 4 Walking Juniors was led by North Devon Pony Parties and their delightful "Party Ponies," followed by Little Butterflies Nursery and Jayne Chappell's Olympic-themed entry. The Class 5 Performance category offered high-energy entertainment, with Atlantic Coast Theatre claiming first place for their engaging "Murder at the Manor" performance. The Tarka Starlights Majorettes shone in second place, while Union Karate Do impressed with their unique "Karaoke" presentation, taking third. A strong show of support also came from visiting carnival royalty, including entries from Bideford, Poltair, and Combe Martin, adding an extra layer of grandeur to the occasion. The day’s festivities culminated in a grand fireworks display at 8 pm, delighting spectators gathered along the Longbridge. Co-project manager Kev Behan said: “Our motto was ‘Bringing the Town Back Together,’ and I think we achieved that in spades. Thank you, Barnstaple, for proving that the carnival lives on in this great town of ours. Long may it continue.”