‘Carnival of Nations’ theme for Saffron Walden’s 2014 eight-day weekend procession

Saffron Walden Carnival, the town’s biggest party, roars into action on Saturday, July 5 with a massive procession – historically the nation’s longest – with the theme ‘Carnival of Nations’.

Organisers Saffron Walden Round Table expect more than 100 floats, classic cars, marching bands, and other procession favourites to make their way along the four-mile route through the heart of the historic market town.

The procession marks the official opening of the popular triennial carnival. As always the procession will be led by the carnival queen and her attendants.

Carnival chairman Jason Thomson said: “Carnival procession theme is our most-asked question. We looked at many, but with so much going on this year around the world, we feel ‘Carnival of Nations’ is a great choice.”

More carnival details, including an application form to get your organisation’s float into the parade, are available at 8DayWeekend.co.uk.

“We will be updating it regularly with details like how to enter the carnival queen competition, five-a-side football tournament, and other rollicking events,” explained Mr Thomson. “I encourage everyone to visit the site and sign up for our carnival news updates.

“Everyone who signs up for web updates will be entered to win a pair of tickets to the carnival event of their choice.”

He added that this year’s ‘Eight Day Weekend’ – which will be held from July 4-12 and run entirely by volunteers – promises to be “bigger and better than ever” with more fun for everyone and more money raised for local charities.

Previous carnivals have raised in excess of £50,000 for local charities and good causes.