🎉 Join Us for the 170th Harwich Guy Carnival – A Spectacular Community Celebration! 🎉
Organised by the Harwich & Dovercourt Rotary Club
📅 Event Date: Saturday, 26th October 2024
🕡 Start Time: 6:30 PM
📍 Location: Ainger Road, Harwich, Essex
Official Website
The Harwich Guy Carnival is back in 2024, celebrating an incredible 170 years of rich history, tradition, and fun. This iconic event, rooted in the coastal town of Harwich, Essex, has grown to become one of the most exciting and long-standing Guy Fawkes celebrations in the UK. Organised by the Harwich & Dovercourt Rotary Club, the Guy Carnival continues to play a key role in raising funds for local causes while offering an unforgettable experience for residents and visitors alike.
What is the Harwich Guy Carnival?
The Harwich Guy Carnival dates back to 1854, when workers from the Royal Naval Shipyard began holding processions to celebrate their work. Originally known as the Shipwrights Carnival, the event featured torchbearers, model ships, and “guying”—mocking their bosses with slogans and poems. Over time, the carnival evolved into a grand Guy Fawkes Night celebration, featuring elaborate costumes, lanterns, and scale models of ships. Today, it remains a cherished tradition, bringing the community together to raise funds for local causes while celebrating Harwich’s rich history.
When and Where: Harwich Guy Carnival 2024 Dates and Times
Mark your calendars! The Harwich Guy Carnival 2024 will take place on Saturday, 26th October, beginning at 6:30 PM. The procession will kick off from the top of Ainger Road, winding its way through the streets of Harwich before concluding at West Street around 8:00 PM. If you’re looking for a family-friendly evening filled with entertainment, this is the perfect event to attend.
Harwich Guy Carnival Route and Parade Details
The Harwich Guy Carnival Parade is known for its lively atmosphere, featuring participants dressed in vibrant costumes, performing dance troupes, and intricately decorated floats. Whether you’re joining the procession or watching from the streets, it’s an incredible visual experience that brings the town to life.
Route: The procession starts at the top of Ainger Road and follows a well-planned route through Harwich, ending on West Street.
If you’re interested in being more than a spectator, why not enter the parade? Whether you want to build a float, join a dance troupe, or simply dress up and walk with the procession, there’s a way for everyone to get involved. This is a perfect opportunity to be part of a local tradition that has spanned over a century and a half. ENTER HERE
Harwich Guy Carnival History: A Tradition of Giving Back
For 170 years, the Harwich Guy Carnival has brought the community together, not just for fun, but for a good cause. The event, organised annually by the Harwich & Dovercourt Rotary Club, raises significant funds for local community projects and groups. Over the years, the carnival has contributed to various causes, from youth clubs to elderly care initiatives, making it a cornerstone of Harwich’s charitable efforts.
Parking and Travel Information for Harwich Guy Carnival 2024
If you’re attending the Guy Carnival from outside Harwich, it’s best to arrive early, as parking near the parade route can fill up quickly. We recommend using local car parks or opting for public transport to avoid any delays. Conveniently, Harwich and Dovercourt Train Stations are both close to the carnival route. Several buses also serve Harwich, including the 104, 103, and 102 from Colchester, and the 3 from Clacton. The local Harwich Bus 22 is another option. Please note that buses will be diverted once the parade begins, so plan your journey accordingly!
Volunteer Opportunities at the Harwich Guy Carnival
The Harwich Guy Carnival thrives on community involvement, and the organisers are always looking for volunteers to help make the event a success. Whether you want to assist with crowd control, help coordinate the floats, or even carry donation buckets during the parade, your contribution will make a difference. Volunteering is a great way to support this historic event while being a part of something truly special. Email [email protected]
Why Attend the Harwich Guy Carnival 2024?
If you’re looking for the ultimate Guy Fawkes Night experience in Essex, the Harwich Guy Carnival ticks all the boxes. From the rich history and stunning parade to the sense of community and charity, there’s no better way to spend your night. It’s a family-friendly event that blends tradition with entertainment, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, the Harwich Guy Carnival 2024 promises to be a night to remember.
Don’t Miss Out on Harwich Guy Carnival 2024!
As the event marks its 170th year, now is the time to get involved and experience the magic of the Harwich Guy Carnival. Whether you’re participating in the parade, enjoying the entertainment, or simply supporting from the sidelines, this is an event that brings the community together like no other.
Be sure to join us on 26th October 2024 for a night of fun, tradition, and celebration. Get your friends and family involved, and let’s make this year’s Harwich Guy Carnival the best one yet!
Key Information:
- Date: Saturday, 26th October 2024
- Start Time: 6:30 PM
- End Time: Approx. 8:00 PM
- Location: Harwich, Essex
- Route: Ainger Road to West Street
- Parking: Plan ahead and arrive early to secure parking.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Email [email protected] for more info.
