Ross-on-Wye Town Council celebrates the successful return of Ross Carnival
3 August 2026
Ross-on-Wye was bursting with colour, music and community spirit on Saturday 1st August as the town welcomed the long-awaited return of Ross Carnival.
Following a lengthy hiatus, huge crowds of residents and visitors lined the streets to cheer on a vibrant walking parade, with participants showcasing an incredible range of imaginative costumes, creative displays and outstanding effort. The fantastic turnout demonstrated just how much the carnival has been missed and highlighted the community’s enthusiasm for seeing this much-loved tradition return.
Following the parade, celebrations continued at Ropewalk Field, where there was something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors were treated to live music throughout the afternoon, an entertaining Punch and Judy show, a popular dog show, a fiercely contested tug of war that proved to be one of the day’s highlights, and a wide variety of stalls run by local organisations, businesses and community groups.
The standard of entries in the parade was exceptional, making judging no easy task. Congratulations go to this year’s winners:
- Most Unique: Ross Pride Connections
- Best Dressed: Taylor Family
- Best Youth Group: Scouts & Guides
- Best in Show: EnviroAbility
- Community Spirit Award: Lerego Family
Ross-on-Wye Town Council would like to extend its sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the event such a resounding success. This includes the dedicated Carnival Working Group, the many volunteers and stewards, parade participants, stall holders, performers, sponsors and, of course, the thousands of people who came out to support the event.
Councillor Katie Fowler, one of the Working Group members who organised the event, said: “The energy and community spirit at this year’s Carnival was truly overwhelming, and we are incredibly grateful to our wonderful residents and everyone who took part in the event to make it such a success.”
The overwhelming success of the Carnival marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for this cherished community tradition.
