Newport Pagnell Carnival- This Weekend!

It's that time of year again, the famous Newport Pagnell Carnival is back for two days, and it's set to be bigger and better than ever! This year's theme is 'Go wild at Carnival' which you can interpret as you wish, but I'm envisioning tigers and bears...

Over 40 floats will be hitting the high street on the Saturday of the carnival this year as part of the grand parade, with a variety of local groups and charities showcasing their work and many in fancy dress. One of the highlights of the Carnival, the variety of decorated floats is always entertaining and interesting, many of them are highly inventive and it's great to see what people are able to create! The parade kicks off at 12 midday and tends to last a couple of hours, giving you the rest of the day to enjoy the other elements of the Carnival. All money raised will be going to a great selection of local groups and charities, so it's a very worthwhile cause.

Other attractions through Saturday include:

• A live music stage for all the family
• Petting zoo- where you can get up close and meet the animals
• Funfair
• Golf simulators
• A great selection of foods
• Bar
• Inflatable play area
• And a vast number of stalls to browse

SUNDAY of the event sees another procession, this time the classic cars and bikers will parade through town at around 12 midday, cumulating at Riverside Meadow for a new motoring display. This element of the Carnival has been moved to Sunday to dedicate specific time to it and allow visitors to have more space to roam and enjoy the vehicles.

There will also be a duck race taking place on Sunday, in the river by the Riverside Meadow. The events kick off with the 'Corporate duck race'- which sees giant ducks which have been bought and decorated by local businesses and groups. Last year there were over 30 ducks racing down the river, so do make sure you watch the race this year!

Throughout Sunday there will also be a car boot sale for you to grab a bargain or two from, as well as the funfair and, of course, some great food and a bar.

The carnival typically attracts anywhere between 4000 and 8000 visitors each year, so getting there early is a must. The event is based at Riverside Meadow, which is located on the popular Rivers Estate in Newport Pagnell. Parking can be found throughout the town, or by entering the field via Nene Close. Parking on the field is free all weekend (weather permitting). To reach the car park, turn into Severn Drive by Harben House and then follow signs to Wellend Drive. You'll see signposts for the car park from there.

The field is free entry across both days of the Carnival, so don't miss out- come along and 'go wild at Carnival!'