Sponsors back Carnival of the Baubles as Giant Disco Turtle returns to Ashford Town Centre

On Saturday 21 November, Ashford Town Centre will come alive with music, movement and magical lanterns as the much-loved Carnival of the Baubles returns for another unforgettable day of family fun and community celebration.

Thousands of people are expected to gather for one of Ashford's biggest annual events, with a giant lantern parade, festive markets, live entertainment, and plenty of family-friendly activities taking place throughout the day.

This year's event is proudly supported by Hallett & Co Solicitors, alongside returning sponsor Ashford Designer Outlet. By sponsoring Carnival of the Baubles, both organisations are helping to grow this special community event by delivering more community workshops and supporting an occasion that brings people together from across the borough.

Hallet and Co Solicitors have said: “We’re thrilled to be part of the Carnival of the Baubles this year! Ashford has been home to Hallett & Co for nearly 200 years, so it means a great deal to us to be involved in an event that brings the local community together for this fantastic festive celebration. We’re delighted to be partnering with a local primary school making this a memorable experience for everyone involved.”

This year's theme, Day of the Dance, celebrates Ashford's vibrant dance community and the energy, creativity and community spirit it brings to everyday life. Expect colourful costumes, lively performances and larger-than-life lantern creations, all coming together in a joyful celebration of movement, creativity and carnival arts.”

Returning to Ashford to lead the parade will be the giant disco turtle, who'll be bringing the party as it guides a colourful conga line of lanterns, dancers and performers through the heart of the town centre. Expect plenty of chances to clap along, join the fun and get swept up in the carnival atmosphere.

The event is delivered by Emergency Exit Arts in partnership with Made in Ashford, and preparations are already well underway. Schools, community groups, local businesses and residents are busy crafting unique lanterns that will light up the streets and showcase the creativity that runs through every corner of the borough.

And the excitement doesn't stop with the parade. Throughout the day, visitors can browse festive market stalls, enjoy live music, discover pop-up performances and stumble across surprises around every corner of the town centre. St Mary's Church will also be hosting its popular Christmas Fayre from 10am to midday.

Whether you're bringing the family, catching up with friends or looking for a memorable day out, Carnival of the Baubles promises a day packed with entertainment, creativity and community spirit, all set against the backdrop of a town centre buzzing with festive excitement.

Cllr Heather Hayward said: "Carnival of the Baubles is one of Ashford's most-loved events, and I'm delighted to see it return with the vibrant Day of the Dance theme. It's a fantastic opportunity to showcase the people, groups and organisations that make our borough such a great place to be.

“From the lantern parade and live performances to the festive markets and entertainment throughout the day, there's something for everyone to enjoy. We hope residents and visitors alike will come along and be part of what promises to be another unforgettable Carnival."

For further information and to start planning your visit, head to loveashford.com.