by John Prince
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the biggest free carnival on the east coast, and local support for it has never been stronger.
Hornsea Carnival has been running in its current form since 1966, and organisers say they’re planning one of the grandest events to date this year.
It is organised entirely by a team of volunteers, and attracts around 25,000 people to the town over three days in July.
Much of the funding comes from local donations and fundraising, which has kept the event going for six decades.
To celebrate the milestone, more live entertainments, stalls and attractions are planned in 2026.
A few new things are in the pipeline and are being held a close secret, including a big name act.
The announcement about who that will be is expected in April.
Whoever it is, the carnival promises to be an unforgettable event, which always reflects the strength of pride and community in Hornsea.
Iain Poole, who has been one of the prime movers behind the carnival for years, said: “It’s always a fight to get the money in the bank to make sure the event goes ahead, but we have a few irons in the fire this year.
“We are waiting on some of the final things to come through, but we’ve been working on the main act since last July. We’ve only got confirmation through about that, and it’s going to be big.
“We’re doing something we’ve not seen at carnival for about 25 years. No one will guess what it is. We have a different main act on the Sunday and on the Saturday as well as other events.
“The key thing is we still need sponsorship as always.
“Whether that be businesses or individuals, we need people to get behind us to keep it going.
“One of our traders reached out and said they’d love to do something for us. They had the infrastructure in place to make merchandise, and said a percentage of any profits will go into the carnival.
“It’s a fresh custom design, inspired by a fun carnival vibe, with colours used from our website. It’ll be something to keep and a nice memento, and something to acknowledge 60 years.”
Hornsea-based designer Sinead Roberts, 33, who came up with the design, is selling mugs, water bottles, coasters and shoe accessories with it on.
She said: “I’ve always been fond of supporting Hornsea Carnival because it’s a really big event which brings so many people together.
“The organisers are really nice people and they always look after us as traders, so I just thought I wanted to give something back to them.
“I want to see it go for many more years, so every penny that can go towards keeping the carnival going is important.
“The design is carnival-themed which was my inspiration. I added bits to it until I got it right.
“It’s celebratory, and signifies everything about the carnival. The merchandise has come out way better than I ever expected. I’ve been really passionate about doing it.
“People come in their thousands to Hornsea that weekend, and it’s a happy and joyous time. I’m happy to support that.”
For Sinead’s merchandise go to charmarella247.co.uk, or you can call her on 07547 684343.
The carnival is being held from Friday, July 17, until Sunday, July 19. For more information go to hornseacarnival.org.uk.