Darlington Carnival is set to sashay and swing into town this weekend for a day filled with unforgettable performances and fun for all the family - here are all the details.

Darlington town centre will be buzzing on Saturday (June 29) as the annual community carnival makes its much-anticipated return.

From 10am to 5pm, streets around the town including Duke Street and the Market Square will be swarmed before the parade makes its way up to Stanhope Park.

Darlington Community Carnival 2023.Darlington Community Carnival 2023. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Street collections will also be available on the day to raise funds for Darlington and District Samaritans.

The nominated charity provides non-judgemental, confidential emotional support to local people in distress, with volunteers answering over 500 monthly calls.

Kate Culverhouse, carnival chair, said: “A small team of volunteers organise Darlington Community Carnival which has been an annual event in Darlington since 1983.

"It is a fabulous celebration which showcases the wealth of opportunities available for people to get involved with their local community, make friends and pursue their interests. 

"It's a hugely enjoyable day for all, offering a range of entertainment while supporting local groups and charities."

Lillian Howell, Fundraising Officer for Samaritans North, added: “We are very pleased to have been selected as the Carnival’s charity for this year.

"We have been involved with the event for many years and always enjoy the community atmosphere. We look forward to seeing people at our stall on the day.”

Amanda Riley, cabinet member for stronger communities said, "Being part of a community is about more than being geographically close.

Darlington Community Carnival 2023.Darlington Community Carnival 2023. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

"Events like this are a fabulous opportunity to bring people together, to celebrate and help each other.

"The fabulous team of volunteers who support the carnival each year are helping to connect and strengthen our local communities, supporting the council's ambitions to build strong and cohesive communities and restore a sense of local pride and belonging."

Last year, dance performances wowed crowds who gathered in the square as warm weather continued and rain stayed away for the event.

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A steel band saw the procession off as it paraded through the town from the Market Square, up Coniscliffe Road, Stanhope Road and into Stanhope Park where stalls, live music and fairground rides awaited.

The theme of 2023's event was ‘Legends and Fairytales’ with school kids and community groups displaying the wonderful and wacky array of costumes, sculptures and banners they had prepared.

Speaking at the event the Mayor of Darlington Cllr Jan Cossins said: “You all look absolutely brilliant; you have all worked so hard and I hope we can raise lots of money for the stalls that are taking donations.”