THOUSANDS of revellers are set to party at one of the biggest events in Maldon’s calendar this weekend.
Maldon Carnival is set to return on Saturday afternoon after a three-year absence because of the pandemic.
The event originally began 127 years ago in 1895 as a water carnival in Promenade Park.
It is one of the oldest carnivals in Essex and has had more than 100 carnivals since its launch.
Thousands of pounds are raised each year for charity at the event.
It is run by volunteers from the area and has been through many challenges due to funding issues which led to it being cancelled in 2017.
A total of £5,750 in funding from the National Lottery Community Fund helped to make this year’s carnival possible.
There are eight main categories to enter for the carnival which are children’s fancy dress, adult fancy dress, most imaginative group float entry, most imaginative group walker entry, most enthusiastic, bands, and business and industry.
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The majorettes and visiting carnival courts participate by invitation only due to high demand and limited spaces.
Organisers have been counting down the days until the carnival with multiple events including a teddy bear picnic and the classic bonniest baby competition.
The carnival will kick off from 2.15pm on Saturday, starting at the Cross Road junction with Fambridge Road.
It will follow its traditional route along Fambridge Road and through the High Street.
Maldon Carnival chairman Rob Slight said: “We are delighted and excited to bring back the carnival for 2022. We cannot thank the local businesses enough for supporting us especially Maldon Salt.
“We have also had overwhelming support from the community as a whole and it just goes to show that the traditional carnival procession is still in demand.
“Maldon Carnival will be 127 years old this year and we would love to keep this tradition going for as long as possible.”
Events are held throughout the year to support local charities. More information can be found at maldoncarnival.uk.
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