Bridgwater Carnival, renowned for its spectacular displays, heralds the start of Somerset’s carnival season this weekend. Over 100,000 attendees are expected to fill the streets to witness the illuminated procession. This historic event, which began in 1881, has roots tracing back to the Guy Fawkes Gunpowder Plot of 1605.
Event Details
The parade kicks off at 6 PM on Saturday, November 1, 2025, and is preceded by street entertainment starting at 10:30 AM. The procession is anticipated to conclude around 7:45 PM, followed by the exciting firework display known as “squibbing.”
Squibbing: A Unique Firework Display
Squibbing, a special feature of Bridgwater Carnival, involves a large number of fireworks being ignited simultaneously. Approximately 150 participants, known as “squibbers,” will showcase their skills from the High Street using long poles. This thrilling display is expected to take place shortly after the last float passes.
Traffic and Road Closures
- Town center roads will close from 8 AM on November 1.
- Roads in the grandstand area will shut down at 1 PM.
- Additional roads leading into Bridgwater will close from 4 PM.
- Notably, the Taunton Road junction will be closed from 4 PM until 8:30 PM.
Parking Information
Visitors can utilize ten official car parks across Bridgwater. Parking fees are set at:
- £10 for cars
- £20 for minibuses
Park and Ride services from M5 Junctions 23 and 24 are also available, costing £17 per car and £30 per minibus.
Weather Forecast
Regardless of weather conditions, the carnival will proceed as planned. The forecast indicates sunny spells interspersed with scattered showers, with a maximum temperature of 14°C.
Attendance Guidelines
Due to the event’s busy nature, organizers advise against bringing dogs unless for assistance purposes. Safety precautions will be emphasized throughout the carnival to ensure a joyous and incident-free experience.
Viewing Options
For those who cannot attend, the Bridgwater Carnival procession will be broadcast online starting at 7 PM, allowing everyone to join in the festivities from afar.
Upcoming Events in Somerset’s Carnival Circuit
Following Bridgwater Carnival, other events in the Somerset Carnival Circuit include:
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Burnham on Sea | November 3, 2025 | 7:30 PM |
| Weston Super Mare | November 7, 2025 | 7:00 PM |
| North Petherton | November 8, 2025 | 7:00 PM |
| Midsomer Norton | November 10, 2025 | 7:30 PM |
| Shepton Mallet | November 12, 2025 | 7:30 PM |
| Wells | November 14, 2025 | 7:00 PM |
| Glastonbury | November 15, 2025 | 6:45 PM |
Bridgwater Carnival promises to be an unforgettable experience, blending tradition with community spirit.
