The exact origins of the Caterham Carnival aren't really known. In its different forms it has been going for well over 100 years. There was a short break during the last world war and it started again in 1948. I have talked to many local residents who remember different things, or heard stories of what used to be:
I have been told that the Carnival procession for example used to be an all day affair, stopping for lunch on Farleigh Common. There was also a time when the Carnival moved to Queens Park for a few years.
In times past the Guards used to have a lot of input into the Carnival day, with man power and equipment, they also used to be prominent in the Carnival procession with their band. I have also been told that there is a curse on the funfair, and that whenever it comes to town, it will rain. We know that this isn't true as we have had some very hot and dry Carnivals.
Different events have been held as part of the Carnival, there used to be a bicycle race, and also a half marathon. In the evening the local Scouts used to organise a barbecue. There used to be a Carnival Queen, chosen at a ceremony a few months before.
There must be many photos of old Carnivals out there, if you have some, or any other stories, please come along to the committee tent on Carnival Day. It would be good to write a book on our history. We aren't as big as some carnivals, it takes a lot of effort to raise any money, unlike places such as Redhill who have already been given Grants totalling more than we raise, and they are having the same arena act as we had last year!
Every year local organisations apply to become beneficiaries of the following years events. Members from that organisation then assist us, bringing fresh ideas for pre Carnival events, as well as for the stalls on the day. At the end of the year they take an equal share of the proceeds. If you would like to benefit from future Carnivals. please contact 01883 348098.
The Carnival is for those who live here now. It will continue to change and evolve, as new trends and ideas are implemented. One of my favourite stalls that has been there for the last three years, (and one that I hope will continue for many years) is the Round Table Pimms tent. I'm sure that there will be many new stalls there this year.
The Carnival is organised by local people, for local people to come and enjoy themselves. It gives many local groups the opportunity to come and promote themselves, and to run a stall making money for their own charity. Many of you reading this are new to Caterham, come along and see what we can do.
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