CARNIVAL season has started in Somerset and up next is Taunton Carnival, the final carnival on the South Somerset circuit.

Starting this Saturday (October 19), the carnival will start in Tangier and finish at the bottom of East Reach. This year's 57th annual illuminated carnival is set to be bigger than previous years.

The official procession route starts at Tangier Way, then down Wood Street, turns right onto Bridge Street and up through the town to the Market House, then veering left onto East Street before finishing at the bottom of East Reach (dispersing from Chritchard Way).

The carnival is free to attend but make sure you get a good spot for the event as it is guaranteed to be busy.

Road Closures are mostly in place from 6:30pm and all roads on the route will be closed from this time. It is also important to be aware that Castle Way and Tangier Way will be closed from 2pm to allow entries to assemble.  

Other major road closures during the Taunton Carnival include North Street and Fore Street, which are closed from 6:30pm until 10pm.

Note: Delays may affect these times.

A full list of all the road closures during Taunton Carnival: Read More

There are limited car parking options in Taunton on the night so your best bet is to park up early.

It is recommended that people consider public car parks around the town, which are free after 6pm.

These include Canon Street, Duke Street, Whirligig, Victoria Gate, Tangier and Castle Street.

There are 58 entries this year and there’ll be a chance for everyone to vote for their favourites with the ‘Public Choice’ award by checking the official Taunton Carnival website and Facebook Page.

There will also be a photo competition, so make sure to send your best pictures in.

Speaking about this weekend's event, an organiser for the Taunton Carnival said: "It’s really exciting to be approaching Carnival 2024. We have so many entries this year which will aim to excite and entertain the crowd on Saturday evening.

"There’s going to be a lot of colour, music and brilliant displays in the procession.

"We’re really hopeful for a good collection also and would urge anyone attending to please donate to the carnival collection generously.

"We are supporting many charities and organisations this year, and you’ll see collectors from those organisations along the route!

"Don’t forget if you haven’t got any cash, we have QR codes to our PayPal page, we have a JustGiving page and also Tap and Pay machines out in the evening.

"We hope everyone stays safe and enjoys the show!"