ORGANISERS of Thornbury Carnival say they will take visitors on an “unforgettable musical journey through time” as the event celebrates its 90th birthday.
This year’s carnival begins Friday July 4 with the Swing in the Park evening event, with music from 1935 through the 1960s.
Committee chair Liam Williams said: “We’ll be stepping back in time and kicking off the festivities by celebrating the early years of the carnival.
“Panache steel drum band will open the event and create the perfect party atmosphere with a reggae vibe.
“Young up-and-coming DJ KitKat will treat us to an epic Grease set and attendees are encouraged to dress up and sing to their favourite Rydell High hits!
“We’re also thrilled Thornbury Swing Band is joining us again to keep the authentic big band sound alive.”
The carnival’s Main Event on Saturday July 5 will include music from the 70s, 80s and 90s.
The main stage programme begins at 11.45am with DJ Kool Kids children’s entertainer.
Local acts including Songbirds Women’s Choir, Thornbury Area Youth Music and acoustic duo The Frontiers are up next.
DJ KitKat will be performing four sets.
Local bands and ‘explosive’ headliners
Local bands Tattsyrup, The Narwhal Monument, and Shades will take the music from the afternoon into the evening, with headliners Louis & The Love Cats providing what Liam predicts will be an “explosive finale”.
As well as the main stage entertainment there will also be a licenced bar, food stalls, Show ‘n’ Shine vehicle display and KidZone with many activities.
Organisers are encouraging people to buy their tickets in advance online, where adult and child day tickets are available at a discount until the end of Thursday, July 3.
Evening tickets for entry after 6pm on Saturday are also available.
Liam said to celebrate the carnival’s 90th anniversary, where anyone buying an advance online ticket for Saturday will automatically receive a free ticket for Swing in the Park on Friday.
Tickets will be available on the gate on both Friday and Saturday.
For more information visit www.thornburycarnival.co.uk.
Picture: Maximum Robbie at Thornbury Carnival’s 2024 Swing in the Park event. Picture: Mike Ashfield