Bridgwater Carnival Commences, Drawing Thousands

On Saturday evening, a Somerset town welcomed thousands of attendees who gathered to experience the excitement and ambiance of the United Kingdom’s oldest carnival. The illuminated floats of the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival brightened the night, as individuals from throughout the county, and even from the United States, participated in celebrating this centuries-old tradition. This occasion signifies the commencement of the carnival circuit, during which participating clubs will journey to Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea, Weston-super-Mare, North Petherton, Shepton Mallet, Wells, and Glastonbury throughout November. While the carnival’s official start time was 18:00 GMT, multiple roads were closed hours in advance to prepare for the anticipated large number of visitors and the impressive carts. Approximately 1,000 individuals participated in the procession, which featured 99 entries, encompassing both floats and walking performers.