FAQs

Dates & timings

When is the carnival?

Wem Carnival is always held on the first Saturday in September. This year the date will be 6th September in 2025 and next year 5th September 2026.

What time is the carnival?

The parades start from Pyms Road around 1.30pm for our afternoon parade, and the illuminated parade at 7.45pm.

The Gala field stalls and entertainment are open from 1pm.

Parade

How can I enter the parade?

To enter, you need to complete the parade entry form here.

How big is the parade?

Well that depends on you! There are usually 8-12 dance troupes, several floats, marching bands, bands on floats, walking groups, individuals in fancy dress and our carnival royalty. The more the merrier.

What categories are there for entry?

There are lots, from floats, decorated vehicles, walking parades, fancy dress etc. All categories can be found on the form here.

Where do the parades go?

The parade route starts on Pyms Road and travels clockwise around Wem; Pyms Road, Summerfield Road, Station Road, Aston Street, High Street, Lowe Hill Road and back to Pyms Road.

When will the parade pass me?

There are two parades, the first starting around 1.30pm and the illuminated evening parade starting around 7.45pm. They pass around the town at walking speed, usually taking around 1.5 to 2 hours to do the full loop.

Gala Field

What is the Gala Field?

This is where all of our afternoon entertainment, trades stands, food trucks, music, dancing and judging take place. A real festival spirit, with something for everyone.

Where is the Gala Field?

We are based on the Wem Sports & Social Club, on and around the football pitches. It is off Bowens Field (SY4 5AP), near Wem Swimming Pool. You can enter through the main gates opposite the swimming pool, and the side gate off Chapel Lane / Noble Street (providing we have enough volunteers to staff the gate).

How can I exhibit / sell / take part?

Please contact us by email for further information; info@wemcarnival.co.uk

What's on this year?

This does vary year on year to keep things fresh, but usually includes; 50+ local & independent traders, food trucks, live music, dance competitions, inflatables, animal displays, clown shows, charity stalls, carnival entry judging and much more.

In 2025 we also have the Rock School (free try-outs), free archery from Wem Scouts and kiddies Zorbing (think inflatable hamster wheels!).

How much does it cost to enter?

Field entry is just £1 per person, with kids 5 & under free. This is payable on the entry gates with cash preferred, but card payments also taken on the main gate opposite the swimming pool. This entrance fee helps us pay for the facilities and we think it offers great value for money.

What facilities are there?

There are portable loos (including an accessible one), seating area in the football stand, a bar at the football club (subject to their opening) and security staff to look after us all!

Can I park at the Gala Field?

For safety reasons, there is no parking at Bowens Field Car Park on the day itself. Car Parks are available by the Co-Op, the railway station and Mill Street. On street parking (not on the parade route), please park considerately.

Road closures

Which roads are closed?

The roads on the parade route, and all those leading on to it will all be closed before and during the parades.

When are the roads closed?

We will close the roads up to half an hour before the parade starts, for safety reasons; 1pm and 7.15pm.

When do the roads re-open?

They will remain closed after the parade has passed, and then are re-opened in sections as it is safe to do so. Please respect our marshals who are there to ensure everyone's safety.

What if I need to get through, or have a delivery?

This is an official, sanctioned road closure, so we will only lift the closures for the emergency services. We have to enforce this to keep our parade entrants, and people watching the carnival safe. Please help us by planning any deliveries, visitors, carers etc around these closures.

Volunteering and Helping

How can I help throughout the year?

The carnival is organised by a small and dedicated committee. We are always on the look out for additional help, support and committee members. So, whether you have a specific skill to offer, a few hours you can give us, some great ideas, fundraising knowledge etc., please get in touch; info@wemcarnival.co.uk

Do you need any help on Carnival Day?

YES!! We always need volunteer marshals, either to help with our road closures, or to help on the gala field. Whatever you can offer, we would love to hear from you. Contact us on; info@wemcarnival.co.uk

Donations

How can I donate on the day?

People in the parade carry round donation tins and buckets, and there is also a truck at the end of the parade where cash can be tipped on. We also accept donations on the entry gates to the Gala Field.

Why do you ask for donations?

We are a community, not-for-profit event, where all funds raised are put back into the event. The cost of running the carnival is climbing, with costs now in excess of £12,000. All funds and donations will be gratefully accepted.

Can I make a donation another way?

Yes, you can donate through our Sum Up link here. Alternatively, look out for us at various fundraising events over the year. Follow us on Social Media to keep updated.

I represent a local business, how can I help?

You can advertise in our annual program, donate prizes for our raffle, sponsor events, or donate (free, or subsidised) services on Carnival Day; we need fencing, portable toilets, skips, signage, radios, etc. Contact us on; info@wemcarnival.co.uk

The Fair

Is the fair on? What times are they open?

The Fair, usually held around the time of the Carnival, on Wem Recreation ground, is not booked by the Carnival Committee. This is looked after by Wem Town Council and the Sports and Social committee. For details, we suggest you look out for signage around the town, or contact the council if required.

Fundraising

Do you do fundraising events?

Yes, we have a calendar of events that run throughout the year, raising funds that are all used to host the carnival. This includes our annual Duck Race, carnival program, grand prize raffle, stalls at local events and quiz / bingo nights.

When is your next fundraising event?

We list and advertise all of our fundraising events through our Social Media pages, so please take a look on there. We will try and update this website too, but this is dependent on volunteer time to keep it updated.

Can I help with fundraising?

Yes please! If you can spare some time, donate some prizes, have some great ideas, or just want to come along to our events to support us, we will be very grateful! Contact us on; info@wemcarnival.co.uk