Ilkley Carnival wowed thousands once again as its spectacular parade and performance-filled showground provided a day of entertainment on Bank Holiday Monday.
Schools, organisations and musicians created a celebratory atmosphere as costumes, music and dance brought its Children’s Book theme to life in the streets.
Carnival committee chair Andrew Stacey said that Monday was one of the best ever Ilkley Carnivals. He said:
“The crowds were incredible, the parade efforts were exceptional and we had bumper numbers joining us on the showground. The atmosphere was electric and people stayed to enjoy the sunshine and the entertainment late into the afternoon.
“We had fabulous entertainment from our birds of prey display and Ilkley Gym Club who were fantastic once again. An extra shout out too, to our main acts, the BMX Stunt Show team and Ben Atkinson and his Action Horses. Ben agreed to join us with less than a day’s notice after our original act, The Mini Pony Show, cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. Both Ben and the BMX team worked brilliantly together to ensure the crowds had an afternoon of truly exceptional shows.”
Burley Oaks Primary scooped Best in Parade for a colourful and musical Otto Blotter, Bird Spotter display and received a surprise message of support from the author Graham Carter before the event. Dressed in camouflage bird-spotter outfits complete with binoculars and handmade head-dresses, the children waved brightly decorated birds mounted on sticks as they danced and chanted to the rhythms of the Burley Oaks Samba Band.
Lucy Ashton, Music Coordinator at Burley Oaks Primary School, said:
“Our Year 4 pupils have been learning to play the instruments and rhythms that make up our samba performance. We then spent additional time practising how to play while walking, carrying instruments and turning corners, all while keeping in time. We’re incredibly proud of all our children for bringing such a joyful carnival atmosphere to the parade, and we’re delighted that their hard work and skill were recognised!”
Head teacher Emma Learmonth added:
“Taking part in Ilkley Carnival gives our children the opportunity to shine at the heart of the community, creating real awe, wonder and joy. Alongside a ‘Mega Make Day’, pupils helped design and decorate our large birds, developing creativity, confidence and teamwork. These inclusive experiences reflect our commitment to ensuring every child feels a sense of true belonging. We could not be prouder of them and we are grateful to the parents who helped them swoop, glide and boogie through the streets of Ilkley.”
Other spectacular entries included 1st Ben Rhydding Scout and Guide Group with Thomas the Tank Engine, Outside the Box with My Favourite Childhood Book, Moorfield School’s Alice in Wonderland, Ghyll Royd Primary’s Jungle Book, Westville House with Charlie & The Chocolate Factory, Sacred Heart Primary with Harry Potter, Ben Rhydding Primary with Hungry Caterpillars, All Saints Primary with Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe, Burley Woodhead with The Elves and the Shoemaker, Ashlands Primary with The Storyteller and Ben Rhydding Primary with Where’s Wally. Also taking part in the parade were a range of organisations including Upstagers, Leeds Hospital Charity, Ilkley Pride and Diversity and 1224 Air Cadets.
Mayor of Ilkley, Cllr Jane Gibson said it was an honour to attend and see the town come together, adding:
“The parade costumes were amazing. Such talented staff, volunteers and children created true masterpieces! There was a huge representation from schools from throughout the area, plus additional groups determined to be part of the fun. The carnival field looked superb, the stalls were varied and the show events, from bareback horse-riding to birds of prey were exciting. Congratulations to all volunteers and the committee for another hugely successful event.”
Andrew added:
“I’d like to thank the committee for another herculean 12-month effort in making the one-day event happen again. And we’d all like to thank the additional volunteers for their efforts – from selling tickets before the event to preparing the field over the weekend, staffing the gates, collecting litter and setting up our parade ground before taking it all down again. We couldn’t do it without you.
“Thank you again to sponsors Bradford Grammar School, Ilkley BID, Ilkley Carpet Company, Ilkley BID, Real Markets and local businesses who support through advertising. Now we’ve had a night’s sleep, we’ve already turned our thoughts to Ilkley Carnival 2027!”
