Dawlish Discussion

10am to 11am Paint a stone for the dragon! Marquee

Led by the amazing Roots Community Enhancement. Come along paint a stone to be part of the stone dragon display on the beach on Sunday. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free.

11am to 12 noon Arrival of the Carnival Ditto house Marquee

Come along and meet the author of the books and the man who makes the Ditto houses. Don’t forget we have got a large Ditto display on Monday!

11.30am to 12.30pm Dawlish Rockwaves Bandstand

Back by popular demand. Wonderful singing by a really enthusiastic and fun local group. Don’t miss this!

1pm to 2pm Crazy Foot Tappers Bandstand

Vintage and vaudeville. Foot tapping, singalong songs from Music Hall through the Roaring 20s & beyond! The Crazy Foot Tappers are ready to get those feet tapping and the crowds singing.

1pm to 4pm Dawlish Garden Show Strand Centre

Dawlish Garden Society is celebrating its 165th anniversary this year! They welcome entries into the Summer Show from children and adults in a variety of classes: Flowers, Fruit, Vegetables, Crafts, Art, Cookery, Photography and Floral Art. Trophies, certificates and some cash prizes are awarded at 4pm. The popular “Dawlish in Bloom” photo competition is judged by People’s Choice, so why not have a go this year?

2.30pm to 3.30pm Owls R Us talk Marquee

See the owls close up, learn about how they are looked after and cared for.

2.30pm to 3.00pm Strongest Bridge Bandstand

For all ages. Free. The clock ticks down as you build the strongest bridge….it gets very competitive…

3.30pm to 4.30pm Seoirsín School of Irish Dance Bandstand

Enjoy an exciting performance of traditional Irish dancing, then join the fun in a lively, interactive céilí (group dance). No experience needed – just bring your energy and enthusiasm!

4pm to 4.30pm Kyra Lennon – author talk and book signing Marquee

Dawlish born author Kyra talks about her Christmas romance novel called Re-Writing Christmas, which is set in Dawlish, and which mentions many places and businesses in town, including Gay's Creamery, Presents, The Smugglers, and several more.

7pm for 7.30pm Bollywood and Bhangra Night Marquee

This is a return booking, as last year they packed out the marquee! Bollywood dance workshop led by Dhol drummer and singer from RSVP Bhangra, followed by a set from DJ9. Free, donations welcome. Authentic Punjabi food on sale during the day and at this great evening. BYO (Bring Your Own) drinks.

10.30am to 12.30pm Town Crier Competition Marquee

The arrival of the Town Criers for the Dawlish competition. Official welcome at 10.45am from the Dawlish Town Crier, the Mayor of Dawlish, the Chairman of Carnival and the Dawlish Twinning Association. Presentation of trophy to the Best Dressed Window competition winner is at 11.00am; the draw for the Town Crier competition will be made, with the first cry at 11.30am.

11am to 12noon Forte Bandstand

Forte is a nine-piece vocal harmony group of friends singing pop, sea shanties, folk, classical and gospel songs both a cappella and with backing tracks.

12.30pm to 1.30pm Junior Town Crier competition Marquee

We welcome the first ever Junior Town Crier competition to carnival. Good luck to all the entrants!

1pm to 2.30pm Rhythms, voices and dances of Southern Italy Bandstand

With Ilaria La Torre (Exeter), Carlo & Maria. Italian dance (Trikke ballate Italian Folk Band). Popular dances from the south of Italy: the tarantella from Naples, the tammurriata from the Amalfi coast, pizzica from Puglia, the Italian percussion of South-Italy tambourines, the organetto (button accordion), and the Italian bagpipe. Music and dances are so ritualistic they bring a sense of transcendence to the soul. All events and dances welcome listeners to the rhythm of Southern Italy.

2pm to 4pm Town Crier Competition Marquee

The Town Criers’ second cry and the announcement of winners.

4pm to 5pm Wellbeing session Marquee

A special wellbeing session of easy and relaxing meditation experience with Reiki/Seikem healing energy, mind calm meditation, calming, clearing and rebalancing. This session will be run by holistic therapist, healer, medium, clairvoyant & psychic artist; who also runs art classes, psychic development classes and workshops in the local area. Free, donations welcome. Please note: Not suitable for anyone in the first trimester of pregnancy, with pacemakers/pacemakers, severe mental health conditions or sound sensitive conditions.

10am to 10.30am Stories and Singing (under 5s) Marquee

Dawlish Library leads the stories and singing, helped by friends from Christians Together in Dawlish and District. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

10.45am to 11.30am Children’s craft activities Marquee

This popular craft session will be led by Dawlish Library and friends from local churches. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

11.30am to 12.15pm Brass Junkies – New Orleans Street Band Bandstand

Brass Junkies are a dynamic and versatile brass band from Bristol performing New Orleans style jazz, pop, funk and soul covers in the style of the finest American street bands such as Rebirth Brass Band and Hot 8 Brass Band. Their diverse repertoire covers everything from funky New Orleans classics to Taylor Swift, Stevie Wonder and Prince so there should be something for everyone! Sponsored by Sol’s mobile mechanics and welding.

1pm to 2pm Owls R Us talk Marquee

A second chance to learn more about the owls and how they are cared for.

1pm to 2pm Kitty Puss String Band Bandstand

A Torquay-based trio who play Old Time music from the Appalachian region of the USA. Ever wondered what happened to the folk music of England, Ireland and Scotland after the early American settlers took it there? It mixed with local traditional music in the region and music from other settlers to become Old Time: ballads, songs, and dance tunes.

2.30pm to 3.15pm Brass Junkies – New Orleans Street Band Bandstand

Another great set from this amazing band!

3.15pm to 4.30pm/5pm Aspects of Dawlish History Marquee

A light hearted talk on how Dawlish grew from a tiny fishing village to a thriving seaside resort – thanks to Brunel and his railway by local historian, David Force.

3.30pm to 4.30pm Everay Bandstand

Everay is a Polish singer-songwriter based in the UK, known for her powerful voice and heartfelt performances. She performs a blend of original songs and carefully selected covers, combining pop and rock influences with honest, emotional lyrics about self-belief, love, and personal growth. A memorable experience guaranteed.

7pm for 7.30pm start Carnival Quiz Marquee

The great John O’D is back conducting the quiz, assisted by the Chairman who last year gave away one of the answers during the quiz! A round on the theme of carnival too. Max 6 people per team. £2 per head. BYO (Bring your own drinks) please. Proceeds to carnival.

10am to 4pm Play It 25 Shaftesbury Theatre

Our contestant bands will be playing and gaining advice from experienced music professionals. This is a unique experience as it’s aimed to give confidence to play more. Come along and be part of a supportive audience. Free. The overall winner will play on Friday on the Bandstand. Sponsored by the Shaftesbury Theatre and Gaz Music Solutions.

10am to 12.30pm Clay Modelling Marquee

No entry fee and all clay is provided. Classes: 6 and under, 7 to 10, 11 to 15 years and adult, as well as one for local care homes. There is a special cup for the overall winner – The Mike Wedlake Cup. Judging followed by prize giving at the bandstand at about 1.30pm.

10.30am, 11.30am and 1pm Punch and Judy Bandstand

The one and only Prof Pete Milsom and Sue Lee are back at carnival with their extra special Punch and Judy show.

12 noon Pub Challenge Bandstand

The teams set off after being judged for the Best Dressed Team at the bandstand. Look out for them at the pubs as they compete in games and try to win the pub challenge prizes. Cheer them on! They all return to the Swan Inn at the end of the competition at about 6pm.

1pm to 3.30pm Junior Tennis Fun and Games Dawlish Lawn Tennis Club – Sandy Lane

Thanks to this great club for putting on this event for us again. Book early as places are limited, with entry for 7- to 10-year-olds (mini tennis orange/green). Doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or already learning. To book a place, text or call to register via 07834 394336.

1.30pm Clay Modelling Prizes Awarded Bandstand

1.45pm to 2.30pm Entente Cordiale Bandstand

Entente Cordiale celebrates the long-standing twinning link between Dawlish and Carhaix in Brittany with a varied programme of songs in French, old and new. Join us for foot-tapping rhythms, haunting ballads, rousing songs of the sea and more. Sing along when you can – tra la la is international! Line-up: Alison Thomas, Jenny McCalmont, Tony and Lucy Simister.

2.30pm to 3.15pm David Bailey Bandstand

David plays Spanish, Latin American, 19th Century and a few arrangements for classical guitar.

2.30pm to 4.30pm Make a Carnival Lantern or Landmark Building Marquee

Pop along and make a Carnival lantern which you might carry in the parade or a landmark building to enter our competition. The choice is yours! All children must be accompanied by an adult. Free.

11am to 3pm Circus Skills Back Lawn

Our friends at Higher Beings are back this year to offer the kids a fantastic opportunity to try their hands at circus skills! Sponsored today by Harrisons Amusements.

11am to 12noon La Bandita Bandstand

La Bandita is an all-Latin American cover band based in Exeter. Members are Chico Camargo from Brazil, Enrique Díaz from Perú in percussion and guitar and Lumi Centurión from Paraguay in vocals. They have been playing in Exeter for almost 2 years and pride themselves in bringing some Latin flavour to the city and now to Dawlish! Come enjoy some cumbia and samba vibes. Bring your dancing shoes and clapping hands! Instagram: @laband_ita (to find out more about their gigs). Sponsored by the Shoe Centre.

12 noon to 1pm Children’s Disco Marquee

Kids can dance, sing and do the conga! Free.

12 noon to 3pm Target Bowls Lawn Bowling Club

Go along and try your hand today. Both adult and children sections at the bowling club. Thanks to the club for supporting us today.

1pm to 2pm Children’s Bingo Marquee

Bingo with children’s prizes. No adults to play!! Free.

1pm to 5pm Live at the Lawn Bandstand

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of live music and summer vibes as Live at The Lawn makes its much-anticipated return. Featuring live performances from some of the local area’s most exciting up and coming bands. Live at The Lawn is a FREE event not to be missed. Come along and experience local live music at its best! Sponsored by Sefton Hall.

Full Disclosure

A Devon-based post grunge band making a name for themselves quickly through playing local festivals and taking part in Powderham Live taking inspiration from 90’s hard rock and metal like Nirvana, R.A.T.M, Deftones and Smashing Pumpkins.

The Other Woman

This is an alternative/folk rock band form Cornwall and Plymouth playing wonderfully melodic and chilled out original sounds, influenced by the likes of Phoebe Bridgers, Cocteau Twins and Joni Mitchell they released their debut album Eternally… in 2024.

10am to 4pm – Play It 25 Shaftesbury Theatre

Our contestant bands will be playing and gaining advice from experienced music professionals. This is a unique experience as it’s aimed to give confidence to play more. Come along and be part of a supportive audience. Free. The overall winner will play on Friday on the Bandstand. Sponsored by the Shaftesbury Theatre and Gaz Music Solutions.

10am to 12.30pm – Clay Modelling Marquee

No entry fee and all clay is provided. Classes: 6 and under, 7 to 10, 11 to 15 years and adult, as well as one for local care homes. Special cup for overall winner – The Mike Wedlake Cup. Judging followed by prize giving at the bandstand at about 1.30pm.

10.30am, 11.30am and 1pm – Punch and Judy Bandstand

The one and only Prof Pete Milsom and Sue Lee are back at carnival with their extra special Punch and Judy show.

12 noon – Pub Challenge Bandstand

Teams set off after being judged for the Best Dressed Team at the bandstand. Look out for them at the pubs as they compete in games and try to win prizes. They all return to the Swan Inn at the end of the competition at about 6pm.

1pm to 3.30pm – Junior Tennis Fun and Games Dawlish Lawn Tennis Club – Sandy Lane

Entry for 7–10-year-olds (mini tennis orange/green). Beginners welcome. To book: text or call 07834 394336.

1.30pm – Clay Modelling Prizes Awarded Bandstand

1.45pm to 2.30pm – Entente Cordiale Bandstand

Celebrates the long-standing twinning link between Dawlish and Carhaix in Brittany with varied programme of French songs old and new. Line-up: Alison Thomas, Jenny McCalmont, Tony and Lucy Simister.

2.30pm to 3.15pm – David Bailey Bandstand

Spanish, Latin American, 19th Century and classical guitar arrangements.

2.30pm to 4.30pm – Make a Carnival Lantern or Landmark Building Marquee

Pop along and make a lantern to carry in the parade or a landmark building to enter the competition. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Free.

9am – Dawlish Musical Theatre Company – rehearsal! Marquee

Orientation 9am–9.30am and the workshops begin at 9.30am prompt with “Can you hear the people sing” as the first piece with a break before “dancing through life” from 11.00–12.00pm. Meeting back at the marquee for 1.30pm ready for a performance at 2.00pm on the bandstand. Solo singers welcome but they will need to register and perform their chosen song prior to the 2.00pm performance. Space for 30 participants, FREE and open to ages 8–108. Pre-register at the Information Tent or with DMTC – if you turn up on the day it is on a first come first served basis.

10.30am, 11.30am & 4pm – Punch and Judy Lawn

The last chance in carnival week to see the famous Prof Pete Milsom and Sue Lee entertain you to a very special Punch and Judy show.

11am to 3pm – Circus Skills Lawn

The last chance to enjoy this ace workshop! Lots and lots of fun to be had. Sponsored by Frank’s Frying.

11am to 4pm – Merlin Lawn

Merlin will be performing magic with a little bit of balloon modelling too! Sponsored by Taylor Wimpey.

12 noon – VJ Day 2025 – 80th Anniversary Lawn

We ask you to join us in remembering the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, which marked the end of World War II in 1945. The Dawlish Branch of the Royal British Legion will lead the flag raising and moment of remembrance at the bandstand. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.

12.30pm to 1pm – Lucy Brice – Winner of Sing It 24 Bandstand

We are delighted to welcome Lucy back a year after winning Sing It 24! One amazing singer!

1pm to 2pm – Play It 2025 band followed by Chris Ostler Bandstand

Chris introduces the Play IT 2025 winner before performing for carnival. Chris is an innovative singer-songwriter motivated by his observations of life, people and emotions. His voice is both powerful and haunting, and his ability to enthral an audience is both locally renowned and developing further afield. Don’t miss this set!

2pm to 3pm – Dawlish Musical Theatre Company Bandstand

After rehearsing this morning – they are live this afternoon on the bandstand.

3pm to 4pm – Ellie Finnerty Bandstand

Fresh from world adventures Ellie is back on stage at carnival! A fab performance to end the last day on the bandstand.