Thanks App About Donate Route Procession entrants Carnival village Sponsorship The committee Return To Top

Thanks

Thank you to the thousands of people who turned up and made the return of Chippenham Carnival a huge success - and an extra special thank you to the hundreds of procession participants, stage performers, volunteers, sponsors and stallholders who made it possible. We are immensely proud of our town for showing such amazing support, and can’t wait to build on everything we have learned to make next year even better!

About

Mention the Chippenham Carnival to anyone who grew up here, and you’ll likely be met with fond stories of vibrant parades, community pride, and childhood memories that have stood the test of time. It was a true highlight in the town’s calendar – and we believe it’s time to bring that magic back.

At a time when community spirit is more important than ever, a group of passionate local residents has come together with one shared goal: to revive the Chippenham Carnival for 2026. Organised by residents, for residents, this event promises to celebrate everything great about our town – and yes, even the much-loved retro ‘Chippy’ chipmunk mascot will be making a comeback!

Past events

Chippenham Carnival was first held in 1923, created as a fundraising event for the Chippenham Cottage Hospital. Over the years, the carnival grew into a beloved town event, featuring a procession with floats, clubs, community groups, and local businesses. The carnival became known for its fun atmosphere, drawing hundreds of locals in costume and decorated floats—all contributing to a vibrant procession through town. In 2026 the carnival will reclaim its spot in Chippenham’s summer calendar on 4th July.

Route

The procession will start at Wiltshire College on Cocklebury Road, before making its way down Station Hill and The Bridge. Then it will cross the River Avon and head up the High Street to Market Square.

Chippenham Carnival map

Procession entrants

Meet all the amazing acts already lined up to take part in this year’s carnival procession.

Vehicles

On Foot

Carnival village

Before and after the procession, Island Park will be bustling with live performances and a range of food, drink and more.

Performances

Local musicians and dance groups are lined up to get the party started during the afternoon, and keep it going into the evening after the procession.

You can find the full set list on the Chippenham Carnival App.

Food and drink

Artisan zone

The committee

The carnival would not be possible without the committee - a dedicated group of locals who have come together to organise a truly community-led event.

Chris
Chair
"Chippenham Carnival is a part of our town’s heritage. I am confident we can revive the event and build on it in the future."
James
Treasurer
"I want to see a positive centrepiece event for our town this summer. Hopefully my enthusiasm and experience can help deliver that!"
Tracey
Secretary
"Having heard Chris was pioneering a team to bring the carnival back to Chippenham, l knew it was something l wanted to be involved with. Other towns have their annual carnival, let's give Chippenham back theirs!"
Fiona E-W
Committee Champion
"I volunteered to play a part in getting Chippenham's new carnival off the ground and give everyone a fantastic reason to get together and celebrate our town."
Fiona M
Committee Champion
"I loved the idea that the Carnival was returning to Chippenham which I feel would reinvigorate the community and bring families together to celebrate all that is great about our Town. I am delighted to be part of the team making of what was just a dream in Chris's head come to life."
Chris W
Committee Champion
"Chippenham is a great place to call home, and I am really keen to help celebrate our community spirit. I hope this event will create happy memories for the people of the town"
Sophia
Committee Champion
"Hearing the carnival was coming back I was definitely up for being involved to bring the children and people of this town joy and happiness, and bring the community together. I can’t wait for this day and for you all to take part and enjoy!"
Sarah
Committee Champion
"I got involved with the Chippenham Carnival because of the fond memories I have of it from my childhood, and I wanted to contribute to a free event that everyone can enjoy."
Miriam
Committee Champion
"I love anything that creates community and togetherness. I really enjoyed Chippenham Carnival as a child and would like to see it back for today's children!"