An incredibly beautiful weekend, albeit topped off with some thunderstorms! But did you get out to one of the many Telford carnival parties? We managed to squeeze in two on Saturday, kicking off with the Wellington Midsummer Fayre.
Wellington Midsummer Fayre
I love the events that are put on in Wellington. Considering it’s such a small town, there is so much to do. Loads of family friendly activities, with making our own eco-dragonfly a firm favourite with my little one. All around All Saints’ Church there were local traders, activities and other stalls. We picked up some brilliant bargains from the jumble, while there was no shortage of tombolas for those wishing to try their luck for a spot prize. Once you’d honed up your circus skills at the tent, you could also go to Market Square for a jester performance. We also spotted the Ironmen and Severn Gliders morris making a well received performance.
There was plenty to eat and drink as well. Local market traders, familiar names for everyone that lives in the area, were there as well as extra goodies and a nice sit down and a cake in the church itself. But we decided to hop on the bus and head to Oakengates, as we had heard there was more than one Telford carnival on offer.
Oakengates Carnival
Run by the excellent Shropshire Festivals team, Oakengates was predictably much bigger and much busier. We were entertained by circus activities, puppet shows, all manner of bouncy castles and courses. There really was no end to the entertainment and much of it was free. Surprisingly though, there wasn’t too much queuing involved to still have a really funpacked afternoon.
There was entertainment across the afternoon too on the main stage and in the bandstand. The bandstand was more kiddy friendly, with Diddi Dance classes and the like. The main stage had some great choreographed performances and music to watch. The whole thing was a riot of colour and sunshine.
Too hot for the little ones
In fact, it was so hot and so much fun that we ended up leaving earlier than anticipated as our little one got a bit overwhelmed by the whole thing. And we didn’t even take in the procession at either fair – probably for the best! Great really, as I’ve heard that Oakengates has a bit of a reputation for rain, but the thunderstorm didn’t kick in until right towards the end of the day.
I love that both events really brought people in and encouraged them to make the most of the town centres too – supporting the local businesses as well as the external traders that were visiting. We managed to squeeze in a pint (and an ice cream) at The Old Fighting Cocks, so I’m confident that we did our bit for the local economy.
Both brilliant events, and that’s not even touching on the parade and carnival that was happening in Newport on the same day! So next time someone tells you that nothing ever happens in Telford, just send them over to this page.
How was your carnival experience?
Coming up in Shropshire
🐐 Armed Forces Day event 24th June
🐐 Shrewsbury Food Festival 24th-25th June
🐐 Shrewsbeer Beer Tour 25th June
🐐 Loopfest Music Festival 8th July