Combe Martin Carnival rides again this weekend

One of North Devon’s best carnivals returns to the streets of Combe Martin tomorrow (Saturday) after a year off.

Combe Martin Carnival has always been one of the biggest in North Devon, with colourful characters, inventive floats and a mile long village street that does full justice to any carnival parade.

The community event was unable to go ahead last year but a dedicated committee of volunteers have worked tirelessly for months to reinstate a carnival weekend.

The main parade of walkers and floats will assemble at the top of the village at Holdstone Way from 6pm and the procession gets underway at 7pm.

The main road through the village between Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park and Newberry Hill at the seaside will be closed between 6pm and 10.30pm.

The community spirit in Combe Martin always ensures a good turnout and a great mix of topical costumes and floats.

But organisers have warned if people wish to see the carnival continue in future years, donations are vital and have urged people to either donate via the online link below or give generously on the day.

Each float or walker will have a ‘scan me’ poster for those who wish to donate by card or via their smartphone, with a pre-set donation of £1.

The carnival will reach the beach just as darkness falls and there is always a great atmosphere as costumed revellers mingle and enjoy a well-earned drink.

The fun continues on Sunday (August 11) with the popular raft and kayak races as part of Beach Day.

It all starts at 12noon with entries for the raft races and kayak races, which run from 2pm – always a good opportunity for watery mayhem as costumed characters struggle to keep their home made rafts afloat for the duration.

There is also a Duck Race as well as children’s entertainment between 12noon and 4pm, including Punch and Judy, magic shows, game shows and balloon modelling.

Once again, people will be urged to show support for their carnival with a donation or two and ensure it continues next year.

If you would like to donate to Combe Martin Carnival please go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/combe-martin-carnival-2024-to-25

Keep up to date with carnival news, pictures and updates via the Combe Martin Carnival Facebook page