Hartlepool’s long-running summer celebration has been formally opened, with officials and volunteers calling on residents to join ten days of events across the Headland.
Mayor opens 103rd Carnival
Ceremonial Mayor Councillor Sue Little launched the 103rd Hartlepool Carnival on Thursday, stepping onto a waltzer at Murphy’s Funfair to mark the start of the borough’s biggest summer festival. The carnival, organised by volunteers from the Hartlepool Carnival Committee, returns with a packed programme intended to draw thousands of people to the Town Moor and surrounding Headland venues.
“It’s a great honour to be invited to open the 103rd Hartlepool Carnival. This event has been bringing the community together for generations and remains one of the highlights of our calendar,”
The council said the carnival will run across ten days and culminate in a Grand Parade on Saturday 8 August. The funfair is operating daily, providing rides and attractions for families and visitors, while a range of community-led activities will showcase local talent and creativity.
What’s on this week
- Daily funfair at the Town Moor: 14:00–22:00
- Carnival Prince and Princess Competition at The Cosmopolitan Hotel — 31 July, 12:00
- Fireworks display near the funfair — around 21:30 on 31 July
- Headland Talent Show at the Headland Club — 5 August, 13:00
- Children’s Sand Sculpture Competition and Treasure Dig at Fish Sands — 3–4 August
Organisers say the carnival remains a community-run project, dependent on volunteer effort. The programme mixes entertainment, competitions and family activities designed to welcome both residents and visitors to the Headland.
Practical information for attendees
Visitors should expect increased footfall and busy roads around the Headland during the carnival period. The funfair’s daily hours are confirmed as above; special-ticket events and timings for particular competitions may be subject to change — check the Hartlepool Borough Council website or carnival committee announcements for the latest updates.
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Carnival Opening (waltzer launch) | 30 July 2026 | Launch day |
| Prince & Princess Competition | 31 July 2026 | 12:00 |
| Fireworks | 31 July 2026 | c. 21:30 |
| Grand Parade | 8 August 2026 | Final day |
The carnival has a long local history and remains an anchor event in Hartlepool’s summer calendar. As always, volunteers are central to its delivery; residents interested in supporting or taking part are encouraged to contact the Hartlepool Carnival Committee or the council for opportunities to get involved.
