STOURPORT Carnival will take place in 2026 after a huge community effort saved the much-loved, century-old event.
A date for Stourport Carnival has been set for Saturday, September 5, between midday and 8pm, with organisers promising something different for this year’s event.
And a rallying call has been issued for volunteers to ensure the revived carnival is a success.
Organisers, Stourport Town Council, have revealed this year’s event will feature a walking parade.
The future of the carnival was thrown into doubt back in January after the Stourport Carnival Society voted to dissolve itself, citing a lack of nominations to fulfil the key roles needed to keep things running.
The news sparked an outcry on social media, with people seeking ways to save the carnival.
This led to Stourport Town Council announcing that it would take responsibility for running the carnival, and an appeal was put out for volunteers.
In a statement, the town council said: “We’re delighted to confirm that Stourport-on-Severn Carnival will be taking place on Saturday, September 5.
“The Carnival will look a little different this year, and we’re really looking forward to sharing our plans with the community as soon as we can.
“We’re excited to reveal that this year’s event will feature a walking parade, and we hope it will be a fantastic occasion for everyone to enjoy together.
“As always, community support will be important, and volunteers will be needed to help make the day a success.
“For now, please save the date and keep an eye out for further updates- we can’t wait to tell you more.”
The Stourport Carnival was first held in 1925 and has typically taken place on the first Saturday of September each year.
The popular extravaganza’s land parade typically features floats, marching bands, small vehicles and walking entries.
The event also typically features live entertainment and a fireworks display.
Last year’s carnival, which marked the 100th anniversary of the event, saw thousands attend as guests were treated to two river parades, a fun-filled land parade, live entertainment and a firework display.
Archived footage shows that in 1956, British boxing hero Freddie Mills, who once fought for the world light heavyweight title, attended the event and crowned that year’s Carnival Queen.
Visit www.stourporttowncouncil.gov.uk/…/volunteering/ to volunteer.
