THE GROUP behind the iconic Stourport Carnival has been dissolved after 100 years.
A statement, posted on Facebook by organisers, confirmed that following the Stourport Carnival Society’s annual general meeting on Monday evening, it was agreed the group would be dissolved.
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- but it loooks set there won’t be one in 2026.
A spokesperson for the Stourport Carnival Society said: “We celebrated our 100th year in 2025, and at the annual general meeting, we reflected on our successes and contributions to our lovely town of Stourport-on-Severn.
“Unfortunately, due to a lack of nominations to fulfil the key roles needed to keep the society running, a majority voted to dissolve Stourport Carnival Society.
“Work is ongoing to finalise details over the coming months, and we will keep you updated.
“Goodbye from Stourport Carnival Society, we thank you for all your support over the years.”
More information is expected to be revealed by carnival organisers in the coming days.
The Stourport Carnival has typically taken place on the first Saturday of September each year.
Every year, thousands of people line the streets of Stourport-on-Severn to watch the parade and soak up the carnival spirit.
The popular extravaganza’s land parade typically features floats, marching bands, small vehicles and walking entries.
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.
Carnival regulars took to Facebook to express their sadness at the news of the closure.
One said: “This is sad news for Stourport; these events take a lot of planning and effort, though.”
Another said that should the carnival not return, it would be a huge nail in the coffin for Stourport.
And one man added: “Stourport Carnival is a historic and huge event, and to organise such an event on a voluntary basis takes a lot of time and skill.
“Thank you to all the many volunteers who have staged a Stourport Carnival since 1925- I wasn’t around for Stourport Carnival number one, but I was, like thousands of others, around for Stourport Carnival number 100.
“Fingers crossed, maybe a Stourport Carnival might return in some form at some stage in the future.”
