Haverfordwest Carnival set to return after six-year absence
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.
More Stories
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.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
South Wales Argus
17-05-2025
- South Wales Argus
Wales May half term 2025: Family events at Cadw sites
Cadw has launched a programme of events for May half term. The events will run from May 25 to June 2. Here is a list of some of the events that will be taking place. Chepstow Castle Bingo (Image: Cadw Photographic Library) This will take place from May 24 to June 1 from 9.30am to 4.30pm. Visitors can explore the historic grounds of Chepstow Castle and search for clues in this family-friendly bingo challenge. William Marshal's Visit to Tintern Abbey (Image: Cadw Photographic Library) This will take place from May 24 to May 26 from 10.30am to 4pm. People can step back in time and meet William Marshal, one of the greatest knights of medieval Wales and the patron and benefactor of Tintern Abbey. Family Crafts Day at Caerwent Roman Town (Image: Cadw Photographic Library) This will take place on May 29 from 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm. People can get creative at Caerwent Roman Town for hands-on craft activities inspired by the location's rich history. Once a Romanised market town, Caerwent evidences how Wales was once such an important site for that empire. Booking is required. Medieval Murder Mystery at Raglan Castle (Image: Cadw Photographic Library) This will take place from May 25 to May 26 from 11am to 3.30pm. People can uncover secrets and solve a chilling crime in this immersive Medieval Murder Mystery at one of Wales' mightiest castles. Step into the shoes of a detective as you question characters, gather clues, and piece together the truth. Juggling Jim's Jester School and Arming the Knight at Chepstow Castle (Image: Cadw Photographic Library) Other events across Cadw's historic locations include Juggling Jim's Jester School at Chepstow Castle on May 31 and June 1and Arming the Knight, also at Chepstow Castle on May 24 and 25, where attendees can learn about Edward III, his armour and weapons, the wars in France, and their impact on life in the castle. Caerleon Roman Baths Floralia Trail (Image: Visit Wales Image Centre) There will also be a Floralia Trail, celebrating Flora the Roman Goddess of flowers, throughout half term at Caerleon Roman Baths. Normal admission will apply, and there will be no additional charges for the trail. Celtic and Roman herbs talk in Caerwent Roman Town (Image: Google Maps) Elsewhere, Caerwent Roman Town will host an introduction to Celtic and Roman herbs where folklorist and historian Val Williams will lead a talk about the herbs used by our Celtic ancestors and their ancient uses. Tickets are £20 per person by prior booking only. Light refreshments included. The half day course will take place in the Visitor Centre on Caerwent Road, near Pound Lane. Falconry Day at Raglan Castle (Image: Cadw Photographic Library) Raglan Castle will host a Falconry Day, with Raptor Wales flying their birds of prey. It will take place on May 28 between 11am and 4pm. Tintern Abbey talk on Monks Tintern Abbey will host Cistercian monk Brother Thomas, who will give a fascinating insight into life as a monk in the Abbey. As the cellarer of Tintern Abbey, Brother Thomas will be able to share all there is to know about the workings of the abbey, his fellow monks, the lay brothers and other 'less religious' people. You will learn about the daily life of the monks at the abbey, including their monastic duties, hygiene and eating habits, as well as the numerous religious services they would have to attend throughout the day. The event will be held on May 31 from 10:30am to 4:30pm. You do not need to book in advance. For those looking to take advantage of the events available during May half term, a Cadw membership offers free event entry and unlimited access to 132 historic places across Wales, offering a unique way to explore Wales' rich heritage. Children also go free with any adult membership. A selection of Cadw's most fascinating historic places – including Valle Crucis Abbey, Castell Cilgerran and Bryn Celli Ddu burial chamber – will also be open for guided tours throughout the summer. Gwilym Hughes, Head of Cadw, said: "Our lively schedule of events across May half term will hopefully inspire pride in Welsh heritage, spark curiosity and offer fun for all ages. "It's an opportunity for families to get out and learn about the rich history that makes Wales so unique. "Children go free with any adult membership offering great value to keep the whole family entertained over the holidays and throughout the year." To find out more, visit the Cadw website.
Western Telegraph
05-05-2025
- Western Telegraph
Haverfoodfest brings crowds to enjoy local food and drink
Haverfoodfest returned to the town on Saturday, May 3, and thousands of people came out to enjoy top quality food and drink and entertainment. Around 50 stalls offered up a range of goodies from local producers to enjoy – from street food, sweet treats, local specialities, kitchen essentials to take home, and some drinks to enjoy in the sun. Everyone was pitching in at Haverfoodfest. (Image: Phil Haskett Smith) The festival took place across Quay Street, Castle Square, The Old Bridge, and Riverside, and street entertainers and live musicians added to the atmosphere - along with choir performances. The event is run by a committee of local people from Haverfordwest, with the help of a number of volunteers on the day. The committee is made up of Sally Williams and Shaun Stewart, Gary Lewis from County Sports, Cllr Tim Evans, and Toby Ellis from Pure West Radio. All smiles at Haverfoodfest 2025. (Image: Phil Haskett Smith) Following the event, Cllr Evans said: 'Many thanks to everyone who came along to Haverfoodfest today and made it a great success once again.' 'As County Councillor for the Castle Ward, it was lovely to see an amazing turnout for the 2025 Haverfoodfest celebrations,' said Cllr Thomas Baden-Tudor. Having fun at Haverfoodfest 2025. (Image: Phil Haskett Smith) 'May I take this opportunity to thank the organisers, volunteers, and the Haverfoodfest committee for making this to be such a successful and wonderful day for everyone.'
Pembrokeshire Herald
28-04-2025
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Haverfordwest Carnival to make a comeback after six-year hiatus
THE MUCH-LOVED Haverfordwest Carnival, which has been absent from the local summer calendar for six years, is set to return in 2025. The event, which last took place in 2019 before the pandemic caused large gatherings to be cancelled, is eagerly anticipated by locals who are hopeful for a vibrant revival. The carnival, known for its bright floats, marching bands, and community spirit, will once again fill the streets of the county town next year. It is being organized by Pure West Radio in partnership with Haverfordwest Town Council, and they are now reaching out to the public for input on key details, including the theme, preferred date, and ways to support the event. Pure West Radio shared the exciting news on social media, announcing, 'After six years, Haverfordwest Carnival is back for 2025! We're partnering with Haverfordwest Town Council to bring back this iconic event, and we want to hear from you. What theme would you like to see? What day works best for you? And how would you like to get involved? Share your thoughts with us here.' The announcement has been met with excitement from the community. Emma Flan reminisced, 'The carnival was always the highlight of the summer when I was growing up. The town would be buzzing, with everyone out enjoying the day and night. So happy to see it returning, and I hope everyone gets involved.' Others, like Michelle Dukes, agreed, saying, 'It's great news – the town really needs an event like this,' while Lucy Lulu Eagles fondly recalled, 'I loved the carnival! I'd always look forward to the band playing and seeing the floats with the kids.' One memorable edition of the carnival took place in 2006, when it was held at the Picton Playing Fields, featuring a Queen tribute act and a junior talent show. The 2018 carnival marked a major revival of the event after a few years' absence, with a maritime theme celebrating the 'Year of the Sea.' Despite the wet weather, the procession, which started from County Hall, drew a big crowd and made its way through the town to Bridge Meadow. The 2019 carnival saw the event moved to a Sunday as a grand finale to Haverfordwest Festival Week, and the sunny weather ensured a wonderful day out for all involved. While the weather remains unpredictable for 2025, local input is highly encouraged to help make the event one to remember. If you have ideas or feedback, you can share them via the survey linked above.
