Stowmarket has never shied away from any celebration! And community Carnivals were often organised for special events, such as the 1935 Silver Jubilee.

But the current annual Carnival has its roots in the visit of the late Queen 1961. That week went so well that it was decided to run another Carnival next year, and so a tradition was born.

Throughout the last seven decades the Carnival has attracted people from far and wide to fill the streets and cheer on the Procession. Local schools and organisations frantically finish their floats based on the year’s theme ready for the off. In a yearly array of lorries, majorettes and bands, crowds would eagerly await the chance to cheer as the parade passed.

Each year has seen different supporting activities throughout the town, including art exhibitions, Carnival Theatre, and grand swimming galas. Children’s sports were organised on the recreation ground, with firm favourites including wheelbarrow races, three-legged races, and egg & spoon races.

On Carnival Saturday the Recreation Ground was always packed. The main arena was always a great place to witness displays including gymnastics, horse riding, martial art displays, motorcycle stunt shows, and dog display teams. And a variety of music has been available – including in 1967 a young up and coming band called Pink Floyd!

There have been times when the Carnival has appeared to be in danger of fading away, like so many others, and the two years of Covid restrictions could have finished it off.

Instead it has bounced back stronger and more vibrant than ever, so we can still cheer on the Procession to the Recreation Ground as many of us have done since childhood.

Our gratitude to all of those who have played a part since the beginning in delivering the Stowmarket Carnival. Darren Dordoy – Chairman Stowmarket Local History Group