Whatever Floats Your Boat? Big Changes Coming to Falmouth Carnival 2025

Decorated floats return for the first time in years – here’s how you can get involved

Falmouth Carnival is back on Saturday 9th August 2025, and this year’s event is set to be bigger, bolder, and more creative than ever. Organisers have confirmed the long-awaited return of decorated floats, with fresh opportunities for local groups, businesses and residents to take part.

Floats Are Back

After a drop in float entries in recent years, the Falmouth Marine Band, working alongside the Falmouth Town Team and Falmouth Week committee, has brought them back. This year, floats of up to 7.5 tonnes will feature once again alongside the established marching parade – just in time for Falmouth Week.

With a history stretching back to 1837, Falmouth Week has grown into one of the Southwest’s top sailing events. But it’s not just about the water – the festival buzz onshore brings thousands into town for daytime and evening celebrations. And now, with floats returning, the Carnival is poised to draw even more eyes.

How to Join the Fun

This year’s themes offer three distinct ways to get involved:

• Whatever Floats Your Boat – Create and enter your own decorated float

• Fill Your Boots – Join the established marching parade with friends and family

• No Pane, No Gain – Local shops can enter the shop window competition

There’s no limit to how creative you can be – whether it’s through costume, design or performance.

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The Falmouth Marine Band, formed in 1989, has been leading the Carnival for years, raising money for Cornish causes with its infectious energy and musical flair.

Band Major Timmy Vinnicombe said:

“For nearly 35 years, Falmouth Carnival has been a fantastic mix of fun, tradition, and giving back. Our focus has always been on supporting local causes, and this year we’re excited to work alongside the wider Falmouth Week Committee to make the 2025 Carnival bigger and better than ever. With the return of decorated floats and fresh new themes, this is an incredible opportunity for the community to get involved and showcase their creativity.”

Carnival Committee Chairman Jim Gordon added:

“What makes Falmouth Carnival so special? It’s the community! Every penny raised goes back to local groups and charities, so we need people to take part, dress up, build a float, and make this the best parade yet. You will make the difference!”

Save the Date

The parade will leave Falmouth Rugby Club at 6:30pm, led by the Falmouth Marine Band in a brand-new costume for 2025. Expect a riot of colour, music and dancing as the town comes together to celebrate this iconic event.

Find out how to register and take part at www.falmouthcarnival.org.uk

For full details on Falmouth Week, including shoreside entertainment and sailing events, visit falmouthweek.co.uk