Two days, two runs of blazing tar barrels and one unforgettable carnival night. Here’s what’s happening, where and when.
The unlit tar barrels are pulled through town by the children to Oakfield Road, ready for the first run at 5am on Saturday morning.
From Oakfield Road via Market Street and Bridge Street to the field adjacent to Island Park.
History of the Tar Barrels →
On at The Square, with over 20 Town Criers attending. Organised and run by our very own Town Crier, Ros Charlton-Chard.
All about the Town Crier Competition →
Take a wander around town and admire the creativity as the judges make their rounds.
Assembles at Claremont and moves through town to the Community Centre for judging and the crowning of royalty.
Floats assemble in the Market Quarter for judging at 6.00pm PROMPT. Floats must enter via Hole Court and Dunbia. Entrants must register their floats in the Market Office on arrival.
Royalty floats leave the Market Quarter (by the Co-op), followed by the floats.
Hatherleigh Silver Band leaves The Square to assemble with the other bands.
The Massed Bands march to the assembly point.
The Main Procession moves off from Hatherleigh Community Market via the Market Quarter and Co-op, along Bridge Street, High Street, Victoria Road and Park Road, back down through town and ending back at the Market.
The Torchlit Procession leaves the top of Market Street, down Bridge Street, to finish at the Market Quarter (by the Co-op).
From Oakfield Road, down Bridge Street, to the field adjacent to Island Park, following on after the Main Procession has cleared.
Carnival weekend brings thousands of people, blazing barrels and big floats into our little town. Please help us keep everyone safe.
Please do not bring or set off any fireworks at the carnival.
Please take notice of all stewards during the procession and barrel runs, as your safety is our priority.
Parking will be signposted. Please do not park on verges or obstruct access for emergency vehicles.
Refreshments will be available on Saturday from a wide range of street traders, so you can keep warm and fuelled up between the action.
Watch out for the street entertainment popping up around town!
Wrap up warm, bring the family and get ready for one of the most spectacular nights in Devon.
Support your carnival
Since 1903, Hatherleigh Carnival has lit up our town with blazing tar barrels, floats and fun. It’s run entirely by volunteers, and every donation helps cover road closures, insurance and safety costs, keeping this unique tradition burning bright.
Make a one-time donation
Every donation, big or small, helps keep Hatherleigh Carnival running.
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