Great Dunmow Carnival is returning this September with a celebration of 'art, community and togetherness'.
The carnival will take place at Dunmow Recreation Ground from midday to 10pm on Saturday, September 16, and this year's theme is musicals.
A procession will take place from The Angel and Harp at 1pm.
Preparations for the carnival have been under way for several months, with the Carnival Court appointed in April.
This year Dunmow is represented by Carnival Queens Emily Sullivan and Hunnie Beedle, together with Princess Poppy Callcut and Prince David Paduraru.
The Carnival Court represents the town at several carnivals throughout Essex during the summer.
New joint committee chairs have also been appointed by the Carnival Committee, with Kelly Hancock and Nicola Insley - who have both been part of the committee in various roles over the years - taking over from Peter Watson.
The 2023 carnival has been sponsored by Precise Fire & Security, Dons Coaches, 727 Tool Hire, McCarthy Stone and Bellway.
Each year, the committee nominates charities to raise funds throughout the event. This year the carnival is supporting Fragile X Society and Dunmow Theatre Company.
While the carnival is free, attendees are asked to donate to support the charities.
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The committee holds several competitions in the lead up to carnival day. This year saw a record number of 546 entries to an art competition from local schools.
Children were invited to draw pictures relating to a theme, with the winner's drawing printed on the front page of the carnival programme. The winner and runners up are awarded Amazon vouchers.
Nicola Insley, co-chair of the carnival committee, said: "We can’t wait for everyone to join us to celebrate the carnival on September 16, 2023.
"This year we wanted to showcase the amazing talent within our community. We have a packed programme of performances in the arena from local performing arts schools, martial arts groups to local bands and firework display.
"We hope that this will be our best year yet!"
Applications are open to participate in the procession or for stalls on the field.
To get involved visit www.dunmowcarnival.co.uk.
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