FROME is gearing up for all the fun and frivolities of Carnival, which takes place on Saturday 20th September.
And this year, Carnival means a full day of entertainment, with bands, circus artists and workshops in the town centre from 10.00am-2.00pm as well as the afternoon children’s procession and the main procession in the evening. The children’s afternoon procession will start at 2.30pm from Victoria Park. Later, the evening procession leaves Manor Road Trading Estate at 7.00pm before working its way through the town.
And there’s still time to enter a float, take part by dressing up in fancy dress, join in one of the several workshops or simply supporting the Carnival by spectating on the day.
Frome has had its own Carnival for over 100 years and it is always a highlight in the town’s calendar. This year, with even more on offer, the Carnival committee invites you to make a day of it.
June Barnes, chair of the Carnival committee said, “Carnival is a spectacular event, for the benefit of Frome. It gives people the chance to have a good time, and help raise money for local groups and organisations. Come out and enjoy yourself!
“Come and spend a day in Frome. There will be workshops for people to take part in, have a go at playing drums, there’ll be the ukulele group, free face painting, and circus performers. The theme of the day is wings, so if you want to dress up with wings that would be lovely! There’s entertainment throughout the day, and you could support local businesses with lunch or coffee.”
There’s still time to enter a float into the Carnival processions, with entries open until an hour before each procession. And as you take in the spectacle, June asks that you remember what Carnival is all about.
“The ultimate aim is that, after expenses, we can put money into our unique Carnival account. It is used entirely for Frome and district people and groups in need. We’ve supported the hospital, disabled groups, playgroups, and lots of individuals. Believe you me, in this economic climate there are a lot more applications now, that are asking for our help.
“Carnival is not just about entertainment, obviously we want to do that and make a lovely atmosphere, but there is a serious side. The money is badly needed. What we’d like is for everybody to be generous and show their appreciation by giving at least £1.
“We would welcome any volunteers whether that is to help on the day of to sell programmes in the build up to the event. It cost a lot of money to stage the show and we rely on donations and volunteers time to make it possible to stage such wonderful entertainment.”
In the build up to the carnival a host of events will take place on including Bingo at the South Parade Club on Wednesday 10th September with the event starting at 7.30pm with eyes down at 8pm. On Thursday 11th September a coffee morning with take place at the Mason Arms and the next day a curry and noodle night will take place.
On 14th September a quiz will take place at the Mason Arms at 7.30pm with entry costing £2 per person.
For more information or for details contact June Barnes on 01373 461625
