Northampton Carnival facts for kids
The Northampton Carnival is a super fun event that happens every year in Northampton, England! It's a big celebration with music, dancing, colorful costumes, and a huge parade. People from all over come together to enjoy the festivities. The carnival has been a special tradition in the town for many years, starting way back in the 1960s. After a short break, it came back even stronger in 2005!
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What is the Northampton Carnival?
The Northampton Carnival is a huge party that lasts for two days, usually from a Friday to a Saturday in June. It's full of exciting activities for everyone!
Carnival Highlights
- Concerts and Events: You can enjoy live music and special performances.
- Community Stalls: Local groups set up stalls where you can learn about their work and join in activities.
- Fairground Fun: There's a fairground at Delapre Park with rides and games.
- The Big Parade: On Saturday, a colorful procession winds its way through the town centre. You'll see amazing costumes, dancers, and floats! It even goes through the pedestrian area of Abington Street.
- Market Square Celebrations: On the final day, Sunday, the Market Square comes alive with performers, dancers, and workshops from community groups. People from Northampton and other towns join in the fun.
A Look Back: History of the Carnival
The Northampton Carnival has a long and interesting history. It has changed over the years but always brings joy to the town.
Early Days of the Carnival
The very first signs of the Northampton Carnival go back to 1914. A photograph from that year shows a decorated float passing by the Guildhall. This shows how long the tradition of parades has been part of Northampton.
In the 1970s and early 1980s, the carnival parade used to happen during the week. It would start in the evening, after dinner. Later, it was changed to Sunday afternoons, which made it easier for more people to watch.
A Short Break and a Big Return
The carnival took a break in the late 1990s and early 2000s. During this time, another event called the St Crispin Street Fair filled the town centre. It ran for two days in October from 1993 to 2004.
Also, a multicultural festival called the 'Roots and Culture Fest' started in 1997. It was held every summer until 2004. When the Northampton Carnival came back in 2005, the 'Roots and Culture Fest' joined forces with it. This made the carnival even bigger and better!
Carnival Themes and Celebrations
When the carnival returned in 2005, its theme was "Celebrate Masquerade." In 2006, the parade happened on Saturday, June 17, with the theme "Colours of the Rainbow."
The 2007 carnival was a three-day event, from June 8 to 10. Its theme was "Earth, Wind, Fire and Water."
In 2008, the carnival's theme was "Masque - Exploring Dual Identities." The events took place from Friday to Sunday, June 13-15. Many groups won awards for their amazing costumes and performances.
The 2009 carnival took place on Saturday, June 13. The main procession started from Delapre Park at 2 PM. It traveled through the town centre and returned by 4:30 PM. The theme for that year was "Sole of the People." Many groups won prizes for their creativity, including:
- Best Live Music: The Richardson’s Brass Band
- Best Float Design: Vernon Terrace Primary School
- Best Visiting Float: Utopia Mas (from Bedford)
- Best Visiting Troupe: Mahogany Meets Northampton
The Northampton Carnival continued its tradition in 2013, taking place on Saturday, June 8. It remains a beloved event that brings the community together for fun and celebration.
