3 November 2024

Withernsea Carnival prepares to mark centenary

by Rebecca Hannant

The annual Withernsea Carnival will return next month to mark its 100th anniversary.

Between Saturday, August 17, and Saturday, August 26, the carnival will once again run a plethora of free events for all the family across various venues and landmarks including Valley Gardens, the Meridian Centre and Withernsea Lighthouse.

Although the full event listings have yet to be announced, carnival chairman John Patchett confirmed that the ever-popular parade would return, and that it would continue to highlight the many clubs, organisations and businesses operating in the town.

The car treasure hunt and the window display hunt are also set to take place once again alongside a range of other activities including games, competitions, crafts, music and more.

John said that his highlights over the years had included the crowning of the prince and princesses, the parades around the town, the shows in Valley Gardens, and the local groups showcasing what they do best.

In recent years, the cost-of-living crisis has made its impact on the lives on local families, with events such as Withernsea Carnival becoming more and more vital to the area.

The event has been hailed for its commitment to continuing to provide a range of free activities for the whole family to enjoy.

John added: “It’s free because people can’t afford it these days. The carnival is following on from Withstock, and Blue Light Weekend, so Withernsea has a lot to offer in August. It is followed by the Youth Action Group concert the following Monday.”

While the carnival is organised by volunteers, it costs on average £9,000 to run a year-long schedule of events.

As a result of the ongoing economic situation, the carnival has been left with a funding shortfall, and organisers are calling on local businesses for sponsorship in return for advertising.

As part of the 100th anniversary celebrations, the carnival committee is also seeking old photographs and stories from down the years.

John added: “We don’t know anything about the original carnival – people came and went, so there are no records of it. We are looking for pictures, recollections – anything.”

The information gathered will be used to understand the range of activities offered in the past, and mark the legacy of the carnival.

John said: “We are very grateful to all our sponsors – the town council, Hull and East Riding Charitable Trust, the Lions, RAOB, Tesco, Aldi, the Gazette, Holderness Hardware, Active Withernsea, Big Local, and many other business and organisations.”

The carnival will take place from August 17- 26. Any individual or business who would like to support the carnival, take part in the parade, or discuss plans for the event should email the organisers at [email protected].