Weston Illuminated Carnival

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Somerset carnivals combine grand fireworks displays with street processions, fairgrounds and street food.

Somerset carnivals are the highlight of the year for locals. The ritual dates back to at least the 1600s, when many parts of the county commemorated the Gunpowder Plot. Today, it’s a combination of open-air entertainment, fairgrounds, street food and late-night openings for many shops and restaurants.

Many Somerset carnival carts are over 50 feet long and come covered in intricate themed designs featuring moving parts and thousands of light bulbs – not to mention the characters, all played by members of the local Carnival Clubs. Remember to bring plenty of loose change, as the proceeds from the coin-collection carts go to charity.