Dumfries Carnival is back for 2026

Join thousands of spectators and participants in the heart of winter.

This years event runs on Saturday 17th January at 5pm as part of the wider Northern Lights programme.

Lantern’s

If you have made a lantern you need to be at George Street Car Park no later than 4.30pm.  If you have not made a lantern you can drop into Supper Club on Fri 16th from 2pm until 8pm.  (70 High Street)

The Lanterns will lead the entire Carnival and then they will get to watch the rest of it at Fountain Square.

Dress up warm and in costume!

Our theme is space, feel free to get the sparkly costumes out.  But also do remember to keep warm.

Food & Drink

Rabbie’s Winter Village is packed full of pizzas, chicken, hotdogs, street food and lots more as well as free music. Check it out here

Route

The Carnival takes the same route, starting at George Street and goes through Burns Statue up the High Street and finishes at New Look.

After the Carnival

Be sure to check out the free light and sound trail across the town.  These will all at 5pm promptly. You can find out more here

Pick up

If you are a parent or carer of a participant, pick up’s are behind Loreburn Centre.

Road Closures

Academy St, Buccleuch Street, Irish Street and Shakespeare St will close for the period of the Carnival.

Irving Street and George Street will be closed for the full day.

Northern Lights route map

Stage times at Rabbie’s Winter Village

Check out the full programme by clicking here

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