'Legendary' Pembrokeshire carnival returning to town after six-year absence
An old-established Pembrokeshire carnival that has been absent from the summer scene for six years is all set to make a return for 2025.
Haverfordwest Carnival last took to the streets of the county town in 2019, the year before the coronavirus pandemic which then saw all big events put on hold.
But hopes are high that 2025 will once again welcome the colourful Haverfordwest Carnival, with a return to its glory days of floats, bands and a host of walking entries.
The Pirates of Prendergast starred in the 2018 carnival. (Image: Western Telegraph) Pure West Radio and Haverfordwest Town Council have teamed up to stage the event this summer – on a date to be decided - and are now seeking the views of the public on the carnival theme, preferred day and how people would like to support.
Pure West Radio announced the exciting plans on Facebook, where they said: ' It's been 6 years but.......Haverfordwest Carnival is BACK for 2025!
"We are teaming up with Haverfordwest Town Council to bring back the legendary Haverfordwest carnival, and we would love to hear your views.
"From day, to themes, to fancy dress, and vendors, let us know your thoughts and ideas here, https://form.jotform.com/251033119103036."
A floral float from days gone by. (Image: Susan Van De Capelle)The news gained a delighted response.
"Growing up, the carnival was the highlight of the summer, the town would be packed, all of the pubs would be full and it was a good day/night out," said Emma Flan. "So happy to see it coming back and I really hope everyone gets involved."
And Michelle Dukes added: "Brilliant news, the town definitely needs something like this."
While Lucy Lulu Eagles recalled: "I love the carnival! Used to look forward to it every year with the kids, to hear the lovely sound of the band then knowing the floats would follow."
A fire engine leads the 2019 carnival parade through Haverfordwest. (Image: Haverfordwest Town Council) One Haverfordwest Carnival to remember was the 2006 event, with post-procession festivities taking place on the carnival's original home of the Picton Playing Fields
Organised by Haverfordwest Round Table, the carnival entertainment featured a Queen tribute act and a junior Stars in Your Eyes competition.
The 2018 carnival saw a big revival after an absence of several years and took a maritime theme in line with the Visit Wales 'Year of the Sea' campaign.
Floats also made a return to the procession and despite the wet weather, crowds of people turned out to watch the carnival parade from County Hall, up through High Street, and back down Barn Street before it made its way to the Bridge Meadow.
Flower power in the sunshine at the 2019 event. (Image: Haverfordwest Town Council) There was a change of day for the 2019 carnival, as it was staged on a Sunday as a grand finale to Haverfordwest Festival Week in July. By contrast to the previous year's weather, the event enjoyed a day of sunshine.
And although the public can't choose the weather for the 2025 Haverfordwest Carnival, people's thoughts and ideas for the occasion are being very much welcomed, via the survey form, linked above.
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