THE DECISION not to have a float parade at Stourport Carnival has been met with backlash- despite there previously being fears the century-old event wouldn’t take place at all.
This year’s carnival was taken over by Stourport Town Council at the last minute after the group which normally runs the event dissolved back in January due to a lack of volunteers.
A date for Stourport Carnival has been set for Saturday, September 5, between midday and 8pm, but this year’s parade will be walking only.
People have taken to social media expressing disappointment at the new arrangement.
One said: “This is not a carnival without floats – I will not be visiting.”
Others said they were very disappointed that the carnival parade couldn’t be kept the same as it normally is, while some said they feel this would ‘finish off a 100-year tradition’ as they didn’t feel there would be as much support this time around.
The confusion and disappointment regarding the parade prompted Stourport Town Council to issue a statement.
A spokesperson for the authority said: “In a change from previous years, this year’s parade is walking only, with no vehicle entries to ensure the safety of all participants, volunteers, and spectators.
“As we have had to organise Stourport Carnival 2026 within a much shorter timescale than usual, some difficult decisions have been necessary.
“We recognise that this will be a disappointment to some people, particularly those who have enjoyed creating and participating with floats in previous years, and for people who have attended as spectators.
“We would love the community to get behind Stourport Carnival 2026 and help make the parade a fantastic celebration.
“Community groups, clubs, schools, businesses and individuals are all welcome to take part – we want everyone to be as creative as possible with their parade entries.”
Following this statement, people have rallied behind the council and thanked them for keeping the carnival alive.
One said: “If the Town Council and volunteers hadn’t stepped in, there would be no carnival at all. It may not be what we are used to, but surely it’s better than nothing.
“We need to get behind it and support it so that it continues in the future.”
