Charivari 2015: World Festivals

Thousands gathered on July 11th, 2015, for Strange Cargo’s vibrant Charivari Day carnival, filling the streets of Folkestone with color and excitement. The moment the distant drumming began, everyone knew Charivari Day was on its way.

The 2015 parade, themed "World Festivals," celebrated global community festivals. Strange Cargo’s talented carnival artists worked across the district to craft six themed sections, capturing the essence of international festivals like the Japanese Blossom Festival, Bulgarian Kukeri, Italian Carnivals, and the Mexican Day of the Dead.

Twenty-four schools, along with community groups and workshop participants, joined the lively procession. Starting at 2 p.m. from The Stade at Folkestone’s fishmarket, the parade made its way up the Old High Street, through the Sandgate Road precinct, and onto The Leas, culminating at The Leas Bandstand with an afternoon of music.

This event was made possible through the generous support of Arts Council England, Shepway District Council, Folkestone Town Council, The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust, Creative Foundation, and the Rotary Club of Folkestone Channel.