ILMINSTER Carnival’s Grand Procession will return this year after a two-year break to celebrate its centenary.
The event will take place on Saturday, October 1, with the procession starting at 7.15pm.
The carnival is returning to Ilminster after a two-year break due to the Covid pandemic and this year’s edition will also celebrate the carnival’s 100th anniversary as the first one was held back in 1922.
A spokesperson for Ilminster Carnival said: “We are excited that carnival is returning to Ilminster after a two-year break due to the pandemic.
“It is an exceptionally special year for Ilminster Carnival, as we are celebrating our centenary year.
"From our research we discovered that the carnival originated back in 1922 and has continued in one form or another for 100 years, originally called Ilminster Hospital Carnival and the money raised went to the local hospital.
“We look forward to welcoming people back to the streets of Ilminster for this year’s carnival.
“Although this year’s carnival will be slightly smaller due to the two-year break, behind the scenes we have continued to meet and organise for this year’s event.
“Carnival clubs have pulled together to produce entries this year after struggling to raise the vital funds needed over the last two years due to limited fundraising opportunities and with the ever-increasing costs.
“However, with all their hard work and carnival spirit, we are sure they will still put on an excellent show. We would like to thank all clubs and entries for being part of this year’s milestone Ilminster Carnival.
“We have various events taking place during this year’s carnival week.
“Our decorated shop window competition will run between Saturday, September 24, and Saturday, October 1.
“The public can vote for their favourite window displays which will determine the overall winning window.”
People can visit the website www.ilminstercarnival.co.uk/decorated-window-vote to see all the participating shops and to cast their vote.
On Wednesday, September 28, Ilminster Rotary Club will be hosting a quiz night to raise funds for Ilminster Carnival.
The quiz will take place at The Shrubbery Hotel and costs £2.50 per person (Maximum teams of 4). Doors will open at 6.45pm for 7.15pm start.
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