When: 9th November 2013
Where: Hatherleigh, West Devon
£: Free to watch
What is it?
The 110th Hatherleigh Carnival will take place on 9th November with competitions and processions throughout the day.
The carnival day begins at 5am with the first of two tar barrel runs. This fiery procession consists of a set of flaming tar barrels being pulled through the streets to the market, accompanied by torch bearers. This procession is then repeated with a second set of barrels at the end of the carnival day. It is estimated that approximately 7 gallons of tar will be used to create this spectacle. The traditional of flaming tar barrels is said to date back to Pagan times when effigies of errant townsfolk were said to be made and burnt!
Every year the carnival hosts a Town Criers Competition, which takes place in the town square. The competition attracts town criers from all over the country and judging is based on diction and inflection, clarity, volume and sustained volume. There are also prizes for the best dressed couple and best dressed crier.
Throughout the day there are more processions including a children’s procession, marching bands and the main carnival procession complete with decorated floats.
More info: www.hatherleighcarnival.co.uk