The excitement is building for this Saturday’s West End Carnival with a huge programme of FREE entertainment in the streets around Plymouth Market.

For the first time, there will be a colourful carnival parade with dancers, samba band, giant puppets and children’s groups in fancy dress, setting off from Place de Brest at 11 am, making its way down Cornwall Street to Frankfort Gate and up New George Street.

The newly revamped Frankfort Gate will be the main performance area, with live music and other activities from 11 am and the opportunity to sit outside and soak up the atmosphere at one of the many cafes or restaurants with outdoor seating.

There’s an amazing programme of free entertainment to enjoy both on stage and roaming the streets. This includes jugglers, contortionists, sword swallowers, stilt walkers, hula hoopers and magicians.

The main stage will also play host to musical performances. Soul and blues singer Joanna Cooke will perform at 11.50 am and the Andy Quick Band will perform their unique blend of feel good funk and blues at 3 pm.

There are also creative family activities to enjoy as well, including street art and a mobile rock pool where you can find out all about life under the ocean.

Plymouth Market is joining in the fun with a range of including cooking demos, body and face painting and appearances from Disney characters.

Steve Hughes, Chief Executive of Plymouth City Centre Company, which organises the carnival, said: “The West End Carnival is a fantastic opportunity to experience all that’s great about the West End of Plymouth city centre and the newly revamped Frankfort Gate.

“It’s a fun, free day out for the whole family and a huge celebration of our local businesses.
Come on down and while you’re here make sure you visit some of the amazing independent shops and eateries on offer.”

Take a look at the event timings here.