Ilkley Carnival has announced its 2026 theme with organisers inviting the community to step into the magical world of Children’s Books for the event on Monday 4 May.
The theme launch marks the start of preparations for one of the town’s most anticipated annual events which raises money for the local community alongside providing a colourful, high-energy and activity-filled day for all the family.
Ilkley Carnival Chair Andrew Stacey said the committee of volunteers is once again preparing for another record-beating year with the 2026 theme promising a parade full of colour, creativity and imagination showcasing classic fairy tales and picture books to modern literary heroes.
“We are always overwhelmed by the support and passion for Ilkley Carnival and know that this year’s children’s book theme will not disappoint! It’s our job to make sure that support for our full day’s event continues on from the parade and into the East Holmes Field showground where we are planning fantastic events, exhibits and jaw dropping antics to keep everyone entertained and the funds for our community rolling in.”
Sponsorship packages are now open for businesses keen to support this year’s event and co-ordinator Colin Watson is already delighted at the response. “We are so pleased to welcome the return of Bradford Grammar School as a long-term sponsor to Ilkley Carnival. Their support of our Carnival Creative competition with prizes and a trip to the school’s art department for the class of the winning pupil is a real highlight each year.
“We’re also delighted with support again from Ilkley Carpet Company, Ilkley BID and to welcome Real Markets as 2026 sponsors. It means the world to our volunteers to have financial backing for the event as sponsorship helps to make a difference to the funds we can distribute throughout the community after the event.”
Local organisations hoping to benefit from the 2026 Ilkley Carnival can now apply on the carnival website www.ilkleycarnival.org/primary-beneficiary/ before the deadline on 19 February.
Lucy Allen of 2026 Ilkley Carnival sponsor, Real Markets in Ilkley, said:
"As we celebrate our tenth year in Ilkley, Real Markets is thrilled to be supporting Ilkley Carnival, Ilkley’s biggest, volunteer-run family day of the year. Like so many other families, I have proudly watched as my children take part in this incredible community event. Ilkley Carnival brings welcome footfall to the town and highlights the town's incredible community spirit. Our town’s calendar of annual and monthly events keeps on growing and here at Real Markets we are delighted to support and to continue being part of Ilkley’s events success story.”
Since 2012 Ilkley Carnival has raised and distributed just under £150k from its profits to local charities and good causes. In 2025 more than 1,500 children and local organisations joined in the spectacular parade and around 10,000 people enjoyed the family entertainment on the carnival showground.
Andrew Stacey added:
“Children’s Books are something almost everyone connects with, whether it’s a favourite childhood story or a book shared with the next generation. We’re excited to see how the community brings this theme to life and to welcome everyone back for another unforgettable carnival in 2026.”
For more information visit www.ilkleycarnival.org
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