Charivari 2011: Foundlings and Fairytales

On Saturday, the suncream and dancing shoes were out in full force as Strange Cargo’s 15th Charivari Day carnival transformed the streets of Folkestone into a vibrant spectacle of drums, cheers, and carnival whistles.

This year’s theme, Foundlings and Fairytales, brought an extraordinary array of flamboyant costumes. Visitors delighted in seeing Rapunzel mingling with Jack and his Beanstalk, as well as princes and an enchanted castle. The parade, featuring hundreds of participants from schools and community groups across the Shepway District, journeyed from the Stade to The Leas Bandstand. The festivities continued throughout the sunny afternoon, with street bands from across the UK performing to a crowd of locals and visitors who packed The Leas to enjoy the celebration.

Strange Cargo is thrilled with the enthusiastic support from the local community. Since 1997, over 9,000 people have had the opportunity to create their own costumes and join in the celebrations, fostering a strong sense of community pride. Charivari Day remains a unique and cherished event in the region.

The event has been generously funded by Arts Council England South East, Shepway District Council, Kent County Council, Folkestone Town Council, Roger De Haan Charitable Trust, Cllr. Roland Tolputt, and East Folkestone Together.