About the Carnival

Our History

Since at least 1835

Aldeburgh is one of the few towns to keep its carnival going when so many others have had to give theirs up.

From regatta to carnival

A little history

Aldeburgh Carnival is thought to be at least 170 years old. This is how it grew from a day of races on the water into three days by the sea.

1835
Ye Olde Marine Regatta
The Carnival has had several names over the years. As long ago as 1835 it was known as Ye Olde Marine Regatta.
1892
The earliest programme
Our earliest surviving programme, for 29 August 1892, lists 15 events: 12 sailing races, two swimming races and a Greasy Pole competition. One of the big draws was a race between the East Coast lifeboats of Aldeburgh, Thorpeness and Dunwich. There were two firework displays that day, Japanese fireworks in the afternoon and another show in the evening.
1927
The carnival begins
A carnival was added to the long-established regatta. Father Neptune led the procession with his entourage: Queen Neptune, two Sharks, a Captain and six Sons of the Sea.
2018
Award winning
Named Family Tourism Event of the Year by the EADT and EDP.
Today
Bigger, brighter, still local
Three days of entertainment for all the family, now bigger and more colourful than ever. Some traditions have stayed true to years gone by, and the whole weekend is still organised by a dedicated team of volunteers.

From the archive

Carnivals past

Carnival Queen May Botterill and her attendants, 1930 — 1930May Botterill, the first Carnival Queen

The Mayor of Aldeburgh, Alderman E. E. Grundy, at the Carnival in 1950 — 1950The Mayor, Alderman E. E. Grundy

Carnival today

A grand three days out at the seaside

Bold, bright entertainment for the whole family, organised from start to finish by local volunteers. Dates for Carnival 2027 will be announced as soon as they are confirmed.

Carnival in pictures

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Crowds and bunting along the procession route

Marchers in red hats beneath the bunting

Video

Carnival on film

RNLI lifeboat launchCarnival Monday, 2017

Carnival fireworksCarnival Monday, 2017

Carnival highlightsA highlight reel by The Lighthouse

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

When are the events?

Event times are published on our news page ahead of each Carnival, and in the Carnival programme, available from the shop. We are very busy over the Carnival weekend, so we cannot always reply to emails and social media messages.

How do I book a pitch as a commercial trader?

Everything you need is on our Commercial Sites page.

What happens about parking?

Parking is very limited during Carnival. The Carnival Committee runs two car parks at the top of the town on Carnival Monday. See Parking and Travel for details.

Is there first aid?

Yes. St John Ambulance provides first aid on all three days, near the Moot Hall.