Bilston will celebrate the return of its annual carnival on Saturday 4 July with exciting plans announced for a bumper day of family fun.
The revival of the carnival – brought back by popular demand as part of the town’s Pride in Place programme – will honour the event’s rich history with a 1960s theme, in a nod to the decade when it first took place.
The festivities will begin with a vibrant carnival parade at 11am, weaving its way through Bilston town centre. Local businesses, community groups and organisations are invited to take part by entering a themed parade float, with prizes awarded for the most creative entries.
The parade will conclude at Hickman Park, where the celebrations continue from 12pm to 5pm. Families are encouraged to bring camping chairs, blankets and picnics to settle in for a fun filled afternoon in the main arena.
The main stage will host a lively programme of performances, including interactive line dancing, a Bilston’s Got Talent competition for local schools, a performance by the Bluebird Belles and much more. The full entertainment line up will be revealed in the coming months.
Children can enjoy a dedicated Kiddies’ Arena in the amphitheatre, offering a full day of activities such as balloon modelling, magic shows and interactive games.
Other competitions taking place throughout the day, include best parade float and a community bake-off, with entries displayed at the event.
Visitors can also enjoy a full funfair, inflatables, free face painting, and a selection of Black Country food traders and bar services.
Local organisations and groups are invited to apply for a pitch in the Community Village, where they can run activities or promote their services to event goers.
Bilston Carnival was last staged in 2008 and is returning due to popular demand after the local community had their say on a wider package of events driven by the town’s Pride in Place Regeneration Programme.
Josie Kelly, Chair of the Bilston Board, said: “We’ve spoken to the people of Bilston, asked them what they want and there’s been an overwhelming passion to bring the carnival back – and that’s what we’re doing. The theme of the carnival is the sixties, so get your thinking caps on. There’s lots to do, get your floats planned and let’s see some wonderful floats celebrating the sixties.”
Councillor Stephen Simkins, Leader of City of Wolverhampton Council and member of the Bilston Board, said: “The return of Bilston Carnival in 2026 is a powerful symbol of what Bilston Pride in Place Programme is all about: community pride, connection and celebration. This means a lot to the people of the town and the Bilston Board is delighted we can deliver it for them. It’s part of a wider package of events to come, alongside major investment in facilities and infrastructure like the new-look market, High Street Link, Urban Garden and new Health & Wellbeing hub – building a thriving, inclusive and empowered Bilston for generations to come.”
Arman Bhingi, Wolverhampton Youth Council and Bilston Board Member, said: “Having grown up in Bilston, I’ve heard tales and legends about the Bilston Carnival. So, please join us on July 4th at Hickman Park. Bring your friends, families and youthful spirit to the carnival.”
Councillor Linda Leach, Bilston North and member of the Bilston Board, said: “Bringing back the Bilston Carnival in 2026 will help rebuild that sense of togetherness, connecting generations and celebrating what makes this town special. When you add this to the other major capital projects already underway in Bilston, you can see a picture forming of a stronger, more vibrant place by 2036.”
Here’s how you can get involved in the carnival:
Apply for a stall in the community village
Enter a float in the parade
Provide entertainment for the parade e.g. marching band, dance troupe
Become an event sponsor
Email bilstoncarnival@wolverhampton.gov.uk to register your interest.