Taking centre stage with ‘Shows and Musicals’ theme
The spotlight is set to shine on the carnival this year as the theme is officially announced as ‘Shows and Musicals’.
Last year, we took to the small screen for the TV programme-inspired theme which saw a record breaking 9,000 people head to the streets of Ilkley. This year, we’re setting the stakes high and encouraging carnival-goers to step into the limelight and get creative with show and musical related ideas for the event.
Andrew Stacey, Chair of the Ilkley Carnival Committee, said: “Whether you’re crazy for Chicago, fanatical about Fame or wild for Wicked, Ilkley Carnival is set to be the go-to event this year. Despite the growth of digital entertainment, the theatre has made a huge comeback over the past decade with the success of shows such as Matilda and Miss Saigon. It’s time to draw back the red curtains on Ilkley and kick start our most joyous carnival yet!”
Our May Day extravaganza commences on 6 May and kicks off with the all singing, all dancing parade which begins on The Grove and ends at East Holmes Field showground which will be home to marvellous headline acts, classic cars, a fun dog show, trade and charity stalls and a host of free children’s activities from the craft tent to Punch and Judy.”
In 2018, we raised a phenomenal £15k for the local community through sponsorship, donations and ticket sales. Half of the funds were distributed to primary beneficiary Burley Scout and Guide group to help them install facilities in their new hut. The remaining £7,500 was split between local charities and organisations who helped on the day and £300 was donated to the parish council to help fund the town’s Christmas tree.
We’re encouraging local communities to apply for the 2019 beneficiary process within the next month!
Andrew added: “The community spirit of the carnival is astonishing and we aim to welcome more people through the gates than ever before. Ilkley Carnival wouldn’t be possible without our outstanding sponsors and volunteers who help us raise remarkable funds. We welcome all businesses, organisations and individuals who can wave their jazz hands to make this the town’s most spectacular carnival to date.”
Check out our sponsor and available advertising web pages for more info.