Great anticipation is building for the long-awaited return of one of the region’s biggest community events.
Ringwood’s near-century-old carnival will be held for the first time since 2019 on Saturday, September 17, in an event organizers say will be “bigger and better” than ever before.
Organizers made the decision to go ahead with the event following the death of Queen Elizabeth II last week after liaising with New Forest District Council and checking government advice.
A Carnival spokesman said: “We will continue our building campaign until Carnival Day. We will not forget nor discredit that we are a nation in mourning”.
Ringwood Carnival 2018. Photo: Scott Lovegrove
As is tradition, two parades are scheduled for the fun festival – one in the afternoon at 2pm and an illuminated evening parade starting at 7.15pm, ending with a fireworks display at 9.30pm to end the day with noise
Organizers from the Ringwood Carnival Society have organized a host of activities, competitions, exhibitions, entertainment, stalls, fairground rides, fireworks and processions at this year’s extravaganza.
Carnival chairman Ben Salsbury said: “The whole town is really looking forward to the carnival, there is great anticipation amongst the community.
“The carnival team – who are all volunteers – have worked tirelessly this year to make the day the best it can be. However, the stars of the show are those who participate in the processions, which is why our event is still going strong and successful.
“This is all thanks to the participation of those from our great city. And all of this, our wonderful community carnival, would not be possible without the great financial support we receive from local businesses.”
Other celebrations include the Bickerley fair and stalls, live entertainment around town, static car and motorbike displays (including a classic film car display), marching bands, BMX riders and more.
This year will also mark the first carnival since the death of former president and event commentator Michael Lingam-Willgoss. However, in a fantastic act of continuity, his daughter Candice will take over her late father’s commentary duties for this year’s event.
Ringwood Carnival 2018. Photo: Paul Johnson
Newly elected Mayor of Ringwood, Cllr Gareth DeBoos, said: “The mood at the carnival will be mixed this year. On the one hand, happiness that the event can take place and on the other the shadow of sadness at the loss of our Queen.
“I anticipate it will be a wonderful, respectful event, all made possible by the excellent work of a committee of independent volunteers.
“As always, the emphasis of the carnival entries is on the ‘spirit of Ringwood’, but this year the judges will also be looking at sustainability where entrants have recycled or reused items.”
Visit ringwoodcarnival.org for more information.
