The Haltwhistle Carnival was started in 1989 by the town twinning committee as part of their celebrations for the french twin town of St Meen le Grand coming over for their visit.
It was initially a one day event, which over time has evolved into a week long event with various events around the town for all age groups. It now has its own committee and continues to go from strength to strength.
Upcoming Carnival Information
Visit the Carnival Facebook page for the latest schedule. » www.facebook.com/HaltwhistleCarnival
Carnival's History
The first event of the year is held around Easter time when a disco is held and the Carnival Princess and her attendants are chosen.
Various events are held in the run up to carnival week, and then on "Carnival Day" itself, there is a full day of parades, floats, live music, entertainment, refreshments, fun fair, vintage vehicles and many food and craft stalls.
The Carnival is funded by a street collection on the day, entry fees, donations from stall holder's and sponsorship from some local business. The carnival field on the outkirts of the town is by kind donation of the National Trust and local farmer Mr. J. Ogle.
Every year the Carnival Committee give back some of the money raised, which goes to various local groups such as the local football team, youth clubs, toddler groups and senior citizen groups.
Carnival's Programmes
Haltwhistle Carnival
Known as “the friendly village market”, the Greenhead market is held at the village hall in Greenhead, from 10am to 2pm. on the second Sunday of every month.
You'll meet the producers of delicious local foods as well as local craftspeople, and you'll discover new recipes, and it's also a good place to find out what’s going on in the local area.
Upcoming Market Information
Visit North East England Farmers Markets » www.neefm.co.uk/market-information/northumberland
Greenhead Market
Hexham Farmers' Market is held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month in Hexham Market Place, running from 9.00am to 1.30pm.
All the stallholders are local producers coming from within a fifty mile radius of Hexham and offering a wide range of produce, including rare breed pork and beef, organic vegetables and lamb, fresh mussels, hand smoked game, homemade soups, jams and pickles, fresh bread and pies, herbs and traditionally-made local cheeses. Hand-made soaps and natural skin care products are also available.
Hexham Farmers Market was named the best in the country by the National Farmers Union.