Our events
Barnstaple Town Council Civic and Ceremonial Events
Mayor Making
Next Ceremony – May 2023
Usually held in May, following the election of the new town Mayor, an annual swearing in ceremony is held at the Barnstaple Guildhall. During the ceremony the exiting mayor will reflect on their achievements and challenges during time in office, and hand over the chains of office to the new Mayor. The new Mayor will appoint their new Deputy Mayor and set out their aspirations as new Mayor.
Generally the ceremony is attended by local dignitaries, Mayors from surrounding towns and local charities and groups.
Fair Proclamation
Wednesday 13th September 2023
1,000 years of history go to make up the annual Barnstaple Fair, and for nearly 200 years there’s been an opening ceremony at Barnstaple Guildhall. You can listen to this year’s proceedings outside (unless you’re one of the lucky invited guests inside!), and join in the procession around the town centre at midday. Look out for the hand of friendship, a floral glove that appears from an upstairs window of the Guildhall at the start of the procession. Just a few hours to wait after that, and then you can head off to the South West’s biggest funfair on Seven Brethren Bank. It’s on for the following three nights too, and don’t forget Barnstaple Carnival, the culmination of Fair Week. Fun and tradition hand in hand (or should that be glove?) in England’s oldest borough.
Remembrance
Friday 11th & Sunday 13th November 2022
The Children’s Remembrance Service is held on the first Friday after the 11th along with the Remembrance Service held two days later on the first Sunday after the 11th November. The anniversary is used to remember those who have died not just in World War One, but also World War Two, the Gulf and Falklands Wars, as well as recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Remembrance Sunday is also recognised each year, which falls on the second Sunday in November and ceremonies are held throughout the country at churches, cenotaphs and war memorials. The Town Council’s Remembrance Parade starts on Ladies Mile and proceeds to the War Memorial in Rock Park, taking in the Salute on the Dais and then a church service at St Peter’s Church in the centre of town.
Christmas Fayre
Thursday 1st December 2022
The Barnstaple Christmas Fayre is held on the first Thursday of December. This year the event, will coincide with the Christmas Light switch on, the carol concert and late night shopping. The Strand will be filled with local craft stalls, showcasing some of the best crafts around, the perfect opportunity to grab some extra special presents. There will be street foods, bouncy castles for the little ones, hot mulled wine, and even Santa Claus in The Mayors Parlour at The Guildhall !
The Charity Ball
Date to be confirmed
The Annual Mayor’s Charity Ball plays host to local heroes, businesses, and charities along with influential members of the community. The event raises much needed funds for the Mayor’s charities and local causes.
Civic Service
Date to be confirmed