THE eagerly awaited Clacton pier event will return as part of the Clacton Carnival this weekend with three days of family fun as the town prepares for one of the highlights of the year.
The carnival will run at Clacton Pier from Friday evening when the attraction and the town’s carnival organisers join forces to stage the Carnival Pier Night.
That evening, a special wristband will be on sale which will allow free rides for the entire night.
The same wristband can be purchased again on the Saturday and Sunday so people can enjoy a day of rides on all the different attractions.
Friday will also see free live music performed, with the band Tailfeathers playing outside the Boardwalk Bar and Grill.
The carnival event began on Clacton Pier more than 100 years ago, and director Billy Ball has spoken of his pride in hosting the event.
He said: “It is a traditional and well-loved part of the town’s annual programme and we are delighted to be involved.
“The organisers raise money for many local charities and causes and we will be boosting the coffers with our donation as usual.
“This year we have decided to offer our £10 unlimited rides band across all three evenings in case some families can’t make Friday.”
Paul Townend, Chairman of Clacton Carnival Association, said the event is a valuable addition to the week long activities.
He said: “This is a collaboration which works for both parties and it is great to be back where it started all those years ago in 1922.
“The pier is very much part of carnival history and it was the brainchild of then owner Ernest Kingsman.”
Tricks for children will be performed by James Magic from 12.30pm on Saturday, before more live music is on offer as Rankin 2 Tone performs from 1pm until 4pm.
K.Marie will then take to the stage from 6pm to 9pm.
The pier will then stage its famous firework display, which is free of charge, on Saturday evening, beginning roughly at 9.30pm.
The display may be pushed back somewhat so it is suitably dark.
Over Saturday and Sunday, stilt walkers will heighten entertainment whilst SMC perform on stage from 1pm until 4pm on the Sunday only.
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