Shepton Mallet Carnival appeals for helpers
By Laura Linham 18th May 2026
Shepton Mallet Carnival needs new helpers to keep one of Somerset's best-loved traditions on the road.
The town's carnival committee is appealing for more members to help before and during carnival night.
This year's Shepton Mallet Carnival is due to take place at 7.30pm on Wednesday, 18 November 2026.
Organisers say the event is becoming harder to run each year because of rising costs, insurance, public safety, road closures and other pressures.
They are now asking local people to come forward and help protect the tradition for families to enjoy.
The committee said: "New members welcome, please help us keep this Somerset tradition alive for all ages to enjoy.
"Every year the organising becomes more difficult, with rising costs, insurance, public safety, road closures and many other factors."
Volunteers are needed to help with the build-up to carnival night and on the evening itself, making sure the event can run safely.
Shepton Mallet is part of Somerset's famous illuminated carnival circuit.
The carnivals traditionally take place in November and date back more than 400 years.
They are linked to the commemoration of the failed Gunpowder Plot and are regarded as among the largest illuminated processions in the world.
Carnival clubs across Somerset and the West Country spend the year raising money and building their entries.
The finished carts can include dancers, music, decorated tractors and thousands of lights.
Some entries can reach around 100ft long and use up to 30,000 bulbs.
Anyone interested in joining Shepton Mallet Carnival Committee is asked to contact the committee for more information.
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