EXCITEMENT is growing ahead of Bude Carnival 2025.

On August 16, the event, which dates back more than 100 years, is set to welcome residents and visitors for a day of fun and games in the summer sun!

First held in Bude 1920, events included a grand torch-light procession, a grand masked confetti fete, hourly concerts by four Jolly Sailor Men and an exhibition of war trophies. The event also sought to raise money for Stratton Cottage Hospital - alongside other local causes- with the grand sum of £34.16s.7d collected.

The tradition of a Winter Evening Carnival continued up to 1938 when the 1939 carnival was postponed due to the outbreak of war. The first carnival after the war was held on August Bank Holiday 1946 when as well as a Carnival Queen there was also a Carnival King, two pages and seven attendants!

There has been a Bude Carnival every year since though it is now held on the third Saturday of August. Money collected on the day, after expenses, is donated to local charities and organisations.

Though it may look slightly different than in 1920, the event lives on and this year onAugust 16, it will host a variety of games and entertainment for attendees to enjoy.

A day time fete with stalls and entertainment on the Bude Rugby Pitch from 11am till 3pm, is set to include magic, dance displays, fancy dress competitions and a number of musical performances.

Residents are asked to visit the Rugby Club on foot from the entrance on Bencoolen roundabout using the Crescent carpark, as there is not parking in the Rugby Club for visitors, while only disabled access will be available.

However, the fun doesn’t end there, with the excitement set to continue into the evening. For many, the carnival procession is the main event - an opportunity to get dressed up and make some memories! This year, the procession is set to leave at 6.30pm from Bude Rugby Club. During the procession traffic restrictions will operate around the town.