About Swanage Carnival - Premier carnival on the south coast

Swanage Carnival has been recognised as one of the UK’s largest charitable events, attracting an estimated 250,000 visitors each year. The Carnival takes place in the heart of Swanage on the beautiful Isle of Purbeck, situated on the Jurassic Coast – England’s first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. The roots of Swanage Carnival date back more than 200 years with the event being organised solely by volunteers for over 80 years.

Our mission

Our mission is to raise funds for local charities and good causes. We do this by providing 8 days of fun filled entertainment for residents and visitors of all ages. For a whole week in the summer, Swanage’s streets, beach, hills and parks come alive with live music with more than 100 different events throughout the week, Swanage Carnival offers a huge variety of activities, including air displays, live music, sporting events, games, competitions, firework displays and not forgetting the highly anticipated Carnival procession.

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Run by volunteers

The carnival’s organisers work throughout the year to bring fun activities, games, competitions and events to everyone from tiny tots through to their great grandparents – and many of these can be enjoyed by the whole family together.

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Great…..so much of interest happens at Swanage. Folk festival excellent. Morris dancers displaying their dancing in surrounding streets..a really feel good event.

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