GLASTONBURY is gearing up for its annual carnival on Saturday (November 18).

The parade features around 50 carts which together create an amazing spectacle of light, music and dancing as the parade winds its way up the High Street past the cafes, restaurants and pubs which all remain open throughout the procession.

There's a new start time of 6.45pm for the entire procession and spectators are advised to arrive early as the free parade attracts hundreds of visitors to the town.

Glastonbury Carnival has been held for over 160 years.

Carnival president Ray Cohen said: "I would like to extend a warm welcome to all visitors and supporters of Glastonbury Carnival 2023, both old and new.

"This year's carnival is going to be spectacular again as all the clubs compete to be the winner.

"I would like to wish all clubs and individuals the very best of luck and thank them for their hard work and efforts in putting their entries on the road."

Hazel DeGregorio, carnival chairperson, said: "I thank every single person involved in carnival - entries, marshals, judges, collectors and everyone else who provides their time."

The organisers are keen to point out how the event relies heavily on generous donations.

If everyone gave £1, it would help secure Glastonbury Carnival for 2024 as it faces rising costs of insurance, first aid, toilet hire and other bills.

ROAD CLOSURES.

FRIDAY (November 17).

Line up area closed to all 8pm Friday until Saturday midnight - subject to clearance of the area and no delays.

The A39 Glastonbury Relief Road, Northload Bridge Roundabout to Tinbridge Roundabout, inc Wells Road Link Road will be closed due to this being the carnival overnight line up. Roads will be barriered and marshalled.

SATURDAY (November 18) – 3pm to 5pm.

Magdelene Street/High Street/Benedict Street. The town centre will be closed off due to congregating volumes of spectators and to allow for daytime entertainers to walk around.

5pm* to 10 or 11pm or until clear enough to reopen the roads:

  • A39 Street Roundabout.
  • *Strictly no access to any vehicles including coaches and carnival entries due to the high volume of pedestrians in the road.
  • A39 Northload Bridge Roundabout, including B3151, Northload Bridge Road.
  • Chilkwell Street at the junction of the A361.
  • Wells Road, access to Thorndun Estate and Dunstans Park at the discretion of the marshal, proof of address will be required and dependent on the location of the procession on route before 8pm. Strictly no access from 8pm.
  • And all other roads around town accessing the route will be closed within the road closures.