Carnival

Welcome to Stockton’s 23rd Community Carnival!   The carnival will once again be a highlight of this year’s festival, bringing together over a thousand local people in celebration.  Schools and community groups from across Stockton are preparing to get creative ready for the event on Saturday 31st July. 
 
This year’s carnival is all about the great outdoors.  It will explore Stockton’s urban and natural environment, including parks and local landmarks as well as hobbies, activities and relaxation in Stockton.  The artistic team has already begun work on designs and will be working with schools, youth and community groups throughout June and July to create amazing carnival costumes. 

As well as stunning costumes, the carnival will also be filled with music, dance and some spectacular giant structures – including the return of loveable Dudley the Dog! 

Once again, the carnival parade will end with a fantastic finale performance in Trinity Green.  Working with Performance Coordinator Philip Parr and Music Director Danny Allinson, a number of local groups will come together to create a wonderful performance showcasing some of the best local talent.
 
Join the parade!
We are currently looking for school, youth and community groups of all ages to take part in the carnival.  We are able to offer participating groups free workshops in costume-making, music and dance. Taking part is a great opportunity for groups to come together in celebration and help make this year’s carnival bigger and better than ever!  If you would like a starring role in this year’s event, please contact Lyndsey Stephenson on 01642 527696, e-mail lyndsey.Stephenson@stockton.gov.uk 

Volunteers wanted
We also have many opportunities for volunteers to get in involved with costume making.   If you are interested please contact Rachel Willis on 01642 526466 or e-mail rachel.willis@stockton.gov.uk

Families invited to join the pet parade!
Part of this year’s Carnival will see a wonderful ‘pet parade’ and families are invited to come along to a series of workshops and make their own unique pets to strut their stuff with along the route!  The workshops will be led by a professional artist and will take place throughout July.  Sessions are open to family groups – all ages are welcome but children must be accompanied by an adult.  If you are interested in attending the workshops, or if you would like more information, please contact Lyndsey Stephenson, Stockton Council’s Arts Development, on (01642) 527696 or email lyndsey.stephenson@stockton.gov.uk - please note that places are limited and advance booking is essential. All participants must be able to attend the parade on 31 July.

Pet parade! Image by Morwenna Catt.