Ilkley Carnival committee has announced that this year’s profits will be donated to groups who volunteer to support the running of the event.
In a break from the usual primary beneficiary format where 50% of profits are donated to one local charity or organisation, the committee has pledged to offer more financial support to those groups which support on carnival weekend.
Ilkley Carnival’s volunteer co-ordinator Mary Moore said:
“At the heart of Ilkley Carnival lies something truly special – the dedication of the people who make it all possible. This year we are proudly celebrating our incredible volunteers by simply sharing the profits between those groups who register their support and join us on 3 May for set up and 4 May for the event itself and the final pack up.
“It takes around 1,300 collective volunteer hours to make Ilkley Carnival happen. The range of tasks is vast and we have dedicated teams of volunteers including Ilkley Gym Club, Ben Rhydding Sports Club, Friends of Ilkley Riverside Park, Ilkley Pride & Diversity Group and 1st Ben Rhydding Scout & Guide Groups. It’s the people at the heart of these organisations who benefit from funds raised so please get in touch if you’d like your group to join us.”
Children’s Books is the theme of the 2026 Ilkley Carnival on Monday 4 May. Since 2012 the event has donated around £170k of profits to local charities and organisations. Last year, 18k was raised and distributed to good causes. The parade begins on The Grove at 11am and the showground entertainment kicks off from 12noon including a BMX stunt show, fun dog show, craft tent, live bands, food and trade and charity stalls.
Mary added:
“Our parade is known for being spectacular – which it is! It’s also important that visitors join us after the parade on the showground as entry ticket sales are where the profits are made. The better the footfall, the more tickets we sell and the better the outcome for every volunteer group that’s involved.
“We’re always looking for more help on carnival weekend so if you feel you could donate volunteers from your local group, please do get in touch.”
If you would like to volunteer your organisation to support the Ilkley Carnival, please contact volunteer co-ordinator Mary Moore to sign up and register your support by emailing helpers@ilkleycarnival.org
For more information on Ilkley Carnival visit the website on www.ilkleycarnival.org and follow the event on X, Instagram and Facebook
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