Andover Carnival 2026 has officially come to an end after organisers announced a record-breaking fundraising total of £9,000, with two local charities each receiving £4,500 following another hugely successful community celebration.
The announcement was made during the Carnival’s annual after party and wash-up meeting, held at The Lights, where more than 60 carnival supporters, volunteers and enthusiasts gathered to celebrate this year’s event, reflect on its success and present the annual procession awards.
Representatives from Stormbreak and Andover Child Contact Centre, the Carnival’s chosen charities for 2026, were each presented with a cheque for £4,500, marking the highest amount ever raised by the event.
Organisers explained that the impressive total was generated through a combination of more than 150 charity collection buckets, profits from the Carnival bar and income from advertising banners displayed throughout the event.
The record-breaking fundraising effort was praised as another example of the generosity of the Andover community, with organisers thanking everyone who volunteered, took part, sponsored the event or simply turned out to support the day.
Procession Winners Announced
The evening also saw the presentation of the annual procession rosettes, recognising some of the standout entries from this year’s colourful parade.
Community Category
- Winner: Icknield School
- Runner-up: Me & My Dad Club
Business Category
- Winner: Kelly’s Aerial Academy
- Runner-up: Andover Central Club
Walking Procession Category
- Winner: Ruby Slippers Dance School
- Runner-up: Can Dance, Will Dance
Organisers congratulated all of this year’s winners and thanked every individual, organisation and business that took part in helping make the procession one of the highlights of the Carnival.
Although this year’s celebrations have now officially come to a close, planning for the next Carnival is already beginning. Applications for performers, stalls, procession entries and sponsors will open after the summer, with residents encouraged to get involved.
The next Andover Carnival is scheduled to take place on Sunday 18 July 2027, with organisers hoping to build on another memorable year that once again showcased the strength of community spirit across the town.
Reflecting on the success of the event, organisers thanked Andover for its continued support, describing the town’s backing of local charities and community events as “simply incredible.”