Committee Members

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Whitstable Carnival: It Doesn’t Happen by Magic!

By Aurelia de Rocha, Chair of Whitstable Carnival

Whitstable Carnival doesn’t just “happen.” There’s no fairy godmother waving a wand, no magical seagulls swooping in to organise it. It’s the result of a small but mighty team of volunteers who pour their time, energy, and love into making it a highlight of the year. But here’s the thing—we need more hands on deck.

I’m Aurelia, the new Chair of Whitstable Carnival Association, and I’m here to ask for your help. The carnival isn’t just about floats and costumes—it’s about community. It’s a celebration of everything that makes Whitstable special, from our creativity to our sense of togetherness. But without volunteers, there’s no carnival.

Right now, our team is tiny. We’re talking about a handful of people juggling work, family, and life while trying to plan an event that thousands enjoy. We love what we do, but we can’t do it alone.

That’s where you come in.

We’re not asking for a huge commitment—just a couple of hours a week. Maybe you’re great at organising, social media, or painting banners. Perhaps you’d be happy marshalling on the day or helping with fundraising. Whatever your skills, there’s a role for you. And if you’re thinking, “But I’ve never done anything like this before!”—don’t worry. Most of us hadn’t either when we started.

Volunteering isn’t just about giving your time; it’s about gaining something too. You’ll meet new people, learn new skills, and experience the satisfaction of making a real difference. There’s nothing quite like seeing the joy on people’s faces when the parade rolls through town. And let’s be honest—there’s always tea, biscuits, and plenty of laughs along the way.

But the reality is: without enough volunteers, the carnival won’t happen. It’s that simple. Whitstable Carnival has been a cherished tradition for 128 years, and if we want to keep it going, we need more people to step up.