Event history
Shifnal’s annual carnival has connections with what was possibly the first Friendly Society to be formed in Shropshire. The Dove Club, or to give its official title, the Shifnal Union Benefit Society, was set up in 1805 for the benefit of local working men in the area, at this time mostly farm workers. The club was wound up in 1887 when the 138 members were paid 6s 10 3/4 d for every year of membership: the longest membership was held by Joseph Elkes who was paid £20 13s 9d for his 60 years of membership.
Throughout its lifetime, members of the Dove Club paraded through Shifnal carrying brass doves on poles on the first Saturday after 24 June which is still the date of the carnival. After the parade, members would attend a church service at St Andrew’s and then a dinner. The club headquarters was at the Crown Inn.
The tradition of parading through Shifnal was continued by the members of the Oddfellows and Foresters friendly societies, but at about the beginning of the 20th century it was agreed that the Old Club Day should be a charity event to raise funds for the local Cottage Hospital. And apart from the war years and Covid, that tradition has continued.
Our Team
Having lived in Shifnal for over 20 years, I have enjoyed watching many carnivals along the way. I am very fortunate that I now have the time to help organise this much-loved yearly event.
Nigel Jones
Chairperson
I've been volunteering with Shifnal Carnival for the past 35 years. Seeing the community come together having fun over the Carnival weekend makes it all worthwhile.
Ruth Evans
Vice Chairperson
After moving to Shifnal in 2018, I was eager to give back to this wonderful community. Taking part in planning the carnival has been both a challenging and incredibly rewarding experience. It’s truly fulfilling to be part of something that makes a positive impact on Shifnal.
Mark Keeling
Treasurer
Before I moved to Shifnal I’d heard about the annual carnival. Having attended a few years I was keen to offer my support for this annual event and enjoy working with the committee to provide this and other events for the Shifnal community.
Michelle Burmingham
Secretary
I have enjoyed taking part and attending events in Shifnal, for many years and I love to see the faces of all the people when the Carnival parade passes and the best way to do that is to be involved.
Kellie Brown
Entertainment
Shifnal carnival has always been a big event in my family, bringing everyone together and making some wonderful memories. It is a great event for the community and I’m really glad I get to be a part of that & supporting the charity in continuing to make a big impact for Shifnal and our residents.
Lindsay Etheridge
Social Media
Having lived in Shifnal for over 40 years, and my parents volunteering for the roles of chairman and secretary for the carnival committee when I was younger, it’s my passion that the Carnival stays the most popular event on the towns calendar, that brings residents and outsiders together for a fabulous day.
Jo Carless
Business Liason
We are long term partners in crime, both born in Shifnal as our parents were before us. As children we didn't initially have a carnival though always a fair and it was wonderful when the carnival was re-instated and have fully supported it ever since. May it carry on for many more years.
Pat & Trudy
Carnival Royalty Liason
I'm so glad to have joined the team at Shifnal Carnival to help to continue to bring this great event to our town. In the past I’ve entered floats in many carnivals and had some of the best family days ever. I hope to encourage new residents to join in and experience the buzz of Shifnal Carnival for themselves.
Alison Jackson
Volunteer Liason
I am Shifnal born and bred. I was a princess attendant on the Queens float age 5 and have been involved with many floats over the years. I now feel that I could play a part in helping to keep this wonderful event moving forward so that others can enjoy what I have enjoyed over so many years.
Emma Gamble
Committee Member
Get involved
Did you know that Shifnal Carnival is entirely planned and organised by dedicated local volunteers?
It takes many skills to organise an event on the scale of Shifnal Carnival. Volunteering gives you the opportunity to learn new things, get involved with your local community and help keep the carnival tradition alive.
There are volunteer roles to suit everyone, no matter your time commitments. Whether you can spare an hour at an event or want to dive in and join the organising team, your contribution will add something special to the next Carnival day!
Latest News
All the latest from our social media feeds.
Photos
Want to know what to expect at Shifnal Carnival? Here's a few photos from our 2024 event.
A special thanks to Bright Gurupira at RAH Community Captures and Tom Craig from Tom Craig Photo Art for these images.
Donate Now
Shifnal Carnival is mainly funded through generous public donations, and all of our organizers volunteer their time to keep this cherished tradition alive in the town. If you're able to, please consider donating to help ensure the carnival continues to thrive for many generations to come. Your support is vital to preserving this beloved event.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When does Shifnal Carnival take place?
Shifnal Carnival is historically held on the last weekend of June. In 2025 this will be from Friday 27th June until Sunday 29th June with carnival parade taking place on Saturday 28th June.
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What can I expect at Shifnal Carnival
As always, you can look forward to a fantastic mix of fun, laughter, and excitement as we team up with Pat Collins Funfair. The entire town center will be closed to traffic, creating a safe and lively space for everyone to enjoy. There will be thrilling rides, entertaining games, and live music throughout the town, so you can have fun both before and after the highlight of the day – the Shifnal Carnival Parade.
Our local pubs and restaurants will be offering a range of refreshments, making this a true community celebration for Shifnal.
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What time does the parade take place?
The parade will commence at 2.45pm from Admirals Close and meander through the town centre coming to rest at Aston Street car park at approximately 4.00pm.
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How do I get to Shifnal Carnival?
Shifnal is located on the eastern border of Shropshire about 5 miles (8 km) east of Telford and approximately 15 miles (24 km) north of Wolverhampton. It has excellent transport links due to its proximity to the M54 motorway and twice hourly trains from Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury.
By car: Leave the M54 at junction 4, following the signs for Shifnal. Free car parking can be found at Wheatfield Park, Wheatfield Drive, TF11 8HU.
By train: Shifnal train station is a very short walk to the town centre. Direct trains can be found from Birmingham New Street, Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury stations. To plan your journey visit www.nationalrail.co.uk
Please note platform 2 (from Wolverhampton/Birmingham) does not have step free access.
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How can I take part in the parade?
Anyone can take part in our carnival parade, with prizes and trophys to be won no matter the size of your display.
Our prize catagories
Register now
Vehicle displays - Up to £200 to be won with prizes for first, second and third places
Walking and riding groups - Up to £100 to be won with prizes for first, second and third places
Individual fancy dress - Up to £40 to be won with prizes for best adult and best child
Most comical float - also wins a trophy
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Do you allow vendors at Shinfal Carnival?
Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate independent vendors at our carnival. Since the event is held in the town center, our local businesses offer a wide variety of food and drink options for our visitors to enjoy.