The Grand Depart had its tour makers, the London Olympics torch bearers – now the organisers of ‘Carnival’ are asking the public to be part of the fun as official flag wavers.
Starting with a colourful street parade through Harrogate town centre, the procession – featuring a host of musicians, dancers and performers – will
head to the Valley Gardens where the free, family event continues into the early evening.
And to help make it a day to remember – one to match famed carnivals in cities around the world – organisers are seeking an army of volunteers to wave flags along the route.
Carnival, which was previously held in 2019 takes place on Saturday, July 30. It has been commissioned by Harrogate Borough Council and Visit Harrogate and is being delivered by Harrogate International Festivals.
It is the grand finale of the arts charity’s 2022 Summer Programme, and is a celebration of the diversity, colours, costumes, sounds and flavours from the four quarters of the world – right here in Harrogate.
With global music and dance stages, themed food zones, art and craft workshops and street theatre, this family-friendly day is a true party in every sense of the word.
Harrogate International Festivals Chief Executive Sharon Canavar said: “Think Rio in Rhododendrons, parade in the petunias, sounds in the sun colonnades, food in the flora and dancing in the dahlias, and you will begin to get a taste of what the day holds in store.
“We are now looking for people from across the Harrogate District to be our flag wavers, the Carnival equivalent of torch bearers and tour makers.
“Whether you’re two or 102, alone or in a group, we’d love to have you. You don’t have to be an expert flag waver, just enthusiastic and excited to be part of the parade.
“You’ll be part of a group, so you won’t be alone. Get creative and dress up for the occasion – there’s only one Carnival!”
On Carnival day, the flag bearers will be needed for two hours between 10am and noon. Everyone is welcome to be a flag waver, but it is asked that children under the age of 16 are accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times, including during the parade.
To take part as a flag waver please sign up at the Harrogate International Festivals website and remember to invite your friends, family and neighbours!
Further information and an application form can be found here, https://harrogateinternationalfestivals.com/news/be-part-of-it-carnival-2022/
