Sun set to shine on three-day Hornsea Carnival extravaganza

Along with the organisers of this year’s annual Hornsea Carnival, we are all crossing our fingers the glorious summer weather holds out for the weekend, which is set to attract more than 20,000 people to the seaside town for the enduringly popular three-day event.

We’re very proud to provide the marquees again for the festival, which has the theme ‘happy holidays’ and coincides with the start of the school summer break. This year it will mix the old with the new to entertain audiences young and old – traditional elements harking back to the original Hornsea Carnivals of the late 1960s, such as the popular promenade parade, will continue the festival’s heritage, and this year the tug of war challenge has been resurrected after an absence of three decades to encourage men, women and youngsters to join in the classic test of strength and of teamwork.

Allan Iles, Chairman of the Hornsea Carnival Committee, said: “The Black Swan in Brandesburton has had a Hornsea Carnival tug of war trophy on display since their team won it 30 years ago. They suggested we restart the contest as it was about time someone else took the honours. We’ve got a few teams lined up and are looking forward to seeing them give it some heave-ho!”

Packed entertainment programme

As well as these displays, the carnival has a packed programme of on offer starting from 5pm on Friday with spectacular fireworks at 9.45pm, through to late afternoon on Sunday, and there really is something for everyone. Based at the Hall Garth Park grounds, with three big marquees for music and crafts, food, and hospitality, visitors can enjoy live music from local bands, dog flyball racing, a thrilling motorbike and car stunt show, learn a few circus skills, watch a cookery demo, and choose from a wide selection of tasty snacks and artisan foodstuffs. What’s more, with the exception of the ticketed music evenings on Friday and Saturday (costing just £8 per person) it’s all free.

“There’s so much to see and do from the traditional Punch and Judy show to interactive activities like a science roadshow,” added Allen. “Another new addition for this year is the 999 rescue village, where the emergency services will be able to chat with the public and have exhibits on show including vintage fire engines, which I’m sure the kids will love. We’ve also got dozens of trade stalls and 30 different charity stands.”

The tagline is ‘Your community, your carnival’, and this spirit is growing ever stronger as each year passes. Allan said: “Even though it does attract holidaymakers and day visitors, this really is a community event, with most local people turning out to support it.

“The committee is made up of volunteers and we spend the best part of a year organising it, relying on donations and fundraising to keep it going. I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who has helped in some way over the past year, all your efforts are much appreciated.

“It’s getting stronger each year and we’re hoping to set up a youth committee too to ensure young people can get more involved and have a say in planning future carnivals.”

Helping to make memories

Village Farm Marquees Co-director Chrysta Newman said: “We’ve worked with the carnival committee for a number of years now and it’s always a huge pleasure to take part in this wonderful event, it brings such a lot of joy to so many people. I’m sure this year’s carnival will be even more memorable than ever before.”

Allan said: “Tony and Chrysta always go out of their way to provide an exceptional service. They’re a great team to work with, so quick and professional. We’re a group of volunteers with day jobs and it’s not always easy to fit things in but they are really flexible and responsive, I’d definitely recommend them to anyone for top quality marquees.”

Chrysta added: “The Village Farm team have got tickets for the Friday night music gig and we are really looking forward to a great night out! The firework display at the end of the night should be spectacular, too.”

For more information, visit the Hornsea Carnival website at www.hornseacarnival.org or on Facebook www.facebook.com/HornseaCarnival/

To find out more about joining the carnival committee, email hornseacarnival@gmail.com

Hall Garth Park can be found off Newbegin, via Cinema Street, postcode HU18 1PA. The nearest car parks are Broadway/Leisure Centre, Sands Lane and Hornsea Burton Road.

Atwick Road, from Hornsea School entrance; Market Place; Newbegin; New Road; Marine Drive; Little Eastgate; and New Road will be closed from midday on July 21 until the parade has ended (approximately two hours).

To contact Village Farm Marquees, ring 01262 468160 or email info@villagefarmmarquees.co.uk