Darlington Community Carnival

A new destination. A global adventure. One unforgettable day.

Darlington’s much-loved Community Carnival arrives at Hopetown Darlington for the very first time and it’s set to be an epic adventure!

Inspired by Around the World in 80 Days and rooted in Darlington’s powerful railway heritage, this vibrant celebration invites you to travel across continents through colour, creativity, music and performance, all from Hopetown’s historic Foundry Green.

What to expect at this year’s Carnival:

• Live music and performances across multiple stages.
• Community showcases, family activities and games.
• Carnival rides.
• Tipples for the adults.
• An ‘Around the World in 80 Days’ display created local schools and community groups.
• An exhibition showcasing the life of Arthur Wharton, Darlington’s sporting legend.
• A mini-exhibition on the history of Darlington Carnival.
• Brilliant traders, food, drink and carnival atmosphere.

Announcements on performers (inc. performance times) and a schedule of the day will be available on the Darlington Community Carnival Facebook page.

The famous Carnival Parade will wind its way from North Lodge Park before steaming into Hopetown, and the parade is free for everyone to watch – you do not need a ticket for the parade. The parade is due to arrive at Hopetown Darlington at 11.30am.

Darlington Carnival also proudly supports the Arthur Wharton Foundation, celebrating equality, inclusion and Darlington’s sporting heritage that links closely with the railways.

And finally - just so you know - yes, this is the very Carnival that formerly called Stanhope Park its home. The Carnival has moved to Hopetown and marks an exciting new chapter in the Carnival’s long, proud history.

Photo image credit Blench Photography. Subject to copyright.