What's on at West End Carnival

Get ready for a day bursting with colour, rhythm and excitement as the West End Carnival returns to Plymouth’s vibrant West End! Perfect for families, friends and fun-seekers of all ages, this free community celebration promises non-stop entertainment, live music, circus performances, street theatre, vintage cars, children’s rides, and more.

From Frankfort Gate to New George Street, the streets will come alive with energy and creativity - soak up the carnival spirit, take part in the interactive Carnival Trail for the chance to win shopping vouchers, and experience an unforgettable day out in Plymouth’s city centre.

Jump to:  Carnival Trail |  Live music  | Live performances | Pop-ups | Circus acts | Street entertainment | Carnival rides | Devon Vintage Car Club

Carnival Trail

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the West End Carnival and embark on the Carnival Trail. 

Follow the Carnival Trail around the West End, then enter the competition to win one of the three voucher prizes to spend on the high street. Pick up a trail map from Daamn Good Bakes, 104 New George Street, Plymouth. 

More information coming soon. 

Live music

Expect lots of colourful and exciting performances throughout the day at the main stage from 11am-4pm at Frankfort Gate, with the odd fire eater thrown in for good measure. 

Elements Plymouth Taiko Drumming - 11am

Dance to the rhythm of the drums as the Elements Plymouth Taiko Drumming team start the day's music programme.

Plymouth Rock Choir - 12.30pm 

Immerse yourself in their uplifting, upbeat pop and rock music. This UK-based contemporary choir emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity. 

Manuka Groove: The Ultimate Covers Experience - 3pm 

Get ready to embark on a musical journey with Manuka Groove, a dynamic and covers band that is set to bring the house down with their infectious energy and diverse repertoire. 

Live performances

Be amazed by performers from the Johnny Strange Circus including fire breather, Contortionists, fortune teller, stilts, Sword Swallower, Magician, Juggler and sword swallower, juggler, fire performer, danger performer and stilt walker. 

Pop-ups

Meet members of The Box team at the West End Carnival and discover more about its amazing exhibitions, events and galleries.  Chat to their natural history curator and get up close to items from our handling  collection.

Sign up to their monthly e-newsletter and you go into our prize draw to win one of their popular woolly mammoth toys!

Circus acts

That’s the way to do it! Enjoy Punch n Judy pop-ups shows at Frankfort Gate.   

Always colourfully costumed and bright and bubbly, Angie Mack comes armed with a large stack of hoops and some funky tunes.  She will wow everyone with her impromptu hula hooping displays before getting a few helpers up to show just how much fun it is.   

Armed with over 100 years worth of magic up his cuff Sir Foxley will charm and baffle you with his extraordinary conjuring methods. Loved by audiences of all ages with his glorious penny farthing attracting almost as much attention as his magic!   

Street entertainment

As you wander around the Carnival, keep an eye out for our walkabout entertainers. You’ll be amazed by the skills of our unicyclist and hula hooper. Don't miss a variety of performances across the streets including a much-anticipated display from The Groovement Project Dance Company at 1.30pm.

Carnival rides

Kids can enjoy carnival rides at Frankfort Gate, including the traditional swing boats funfair ride and the Chair 'o' Plane ride, where children can reach for the sky! Challenge your strength using a mallet to ring the Striker bell. 

Devon Vintage Car Club

Check out an array of classic and iconic motos at this year's West End Carnival. Devon Vintage Car Club will be present throughout the day, showcasing a range of stunning classic and vintage cars.