Carnival of the Lights: 2017 parade information pack

Carnival of the Lights 2017

Parade Information 5pm - 6pm Thursday 26 October 2017 Central Pier to Blackpool Tower (Comedy Carpet)

Theme Blackpool Illuminations is the oldest and most celebrated light show in the world. For over 100 years the display has brought millions of families from all walks of life to the town.

Terms and Conditions We want the parade to be a fun event, but we also want everyone to be safe.

For this reason, the following rules for vehicle and walking group entries must be understood and agreed.

To show our love for Blackpool and its fabulous Illuminations, we are planning the first ever Carnival of the Lights. For the first time Blackpool’s three illuminated trams will parade in convoy: the Battleship, the Great Western Train and the Trawler. Alongside them we would like to convene community groups to celebrate everything and everyone who make the town what it is.

The conditions of entry have been drawn up in accordance with Health and Safety guidelines set down by statutory bodies.

By signing up to take part in the parade, you agree to adhere to these conditions.

We’re looking for people from all walks of life to take part in a fantastic illuminated parade. You could be an individual, a charity, a community group, a business, a government organisation - all are welcome to join in with our shimmering parade.

General Rules for All Entries • Alcohol is strictly prohibited before and during the parade.

• No merchandise to be sold at any time during the parade.

• No part of any entry can contain inappropriate content or conduct that would be likely to offend.

• No collections.

• No naked flames.

• No throwing objects to participants or spectators.

• No jumping on and off a moving vehicle.

• Please do not respond to any anti-social behaviour. Report it to your nearest Steward or Police Officer.

• Please follow the direction of the Stewards.

• In the event of a dispute the decision of the parade organisers is final.

• The Festival@Lightpool, its partners and sponsors will not be held responsible jointly or severally for any loss, damage or injury to entrants or property.

• Please make sure that your costumes/decorations are safe and secure: Any decorations or costumes that are deemed unsafe by a Festival representative will be refused entry to the parade. If you need advice on this, please contact us in advance of the parade.

• Stewards will conduct bag checks to ensure everyone’s safety.

We want to see as many entries as possible. This can be anything from a dressed up shopping trolley or mobility scooter to a walking group or individuals walking their dogs.

The theme is light - so let your creativity run wild and illuminate your parade entry.

You could use fairy lights, glow sticks, LEDs, it really is up to you.

Parade Route The Parade will start at the Central Pier and then head along the promenade towards the Tower. It will disperse on the Comedy Carpet (in front of the Tower).

Parade Order Worldbeaters Music’s LED drummers ‘Spark’ will be returning to the Festival@Lightpool to lead the parade, and for the first time Blackpool’s three illuminated trams will parade in convoy. This will be followed by individuals, community groups and local businesses showing off their sparkling costumes.

Walking Groups Please remain with your walking party in your allocated position until the parade has ended.

Motorised vehicles • All motorised vehicles must be registered with the event organisers. If you plan to bring an illuminated vehicle, please contact us first.

• All parade vehicles will be issued with a pass in advance of the parade. You must display a pass in order to take part.

Need help with your costumes?

No need to worry about that, as we’re holding FREE workshops where we will help you to make illuminated banners, decorate your clothes and accessories or even give your dog a bit of sparkle!

The workshops will take place from 2pm on Sunday 15 October and Sunday 22 October at Stanley Park Visitor Centre (next to the park cafe), Blackpool, FY3 9TR. You can sign up for a workshop when you register for the parade.

All materials, assistance and equipment is provided and you get to keep what you make!

If you have any questions that aren’t covered in the guidance document, please email carnivalofthelights@gmail.com or telephone Catherine on 07535 143855 and we’ll try and help.

What happens now?

If you have read all the terms and conditions and agree, please complete the application form by 5pm on Friday 13 October 2017.

• Once your application has been received, a confirmation email will be sent to you.

• You will be kept up to date regarding the parade by email.

• All entries will receive an information brief one week before the day of the parade. This will tell you what you need to do on the day and the location of your registration point at Central Pier.

• In the unlikely event that the parade is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, you will be informed at the earliest opportunity.