ABOUT

WORTHING ROTARY CARNIVAL history

WORTHING ROTARY CARNIVAL 70S — 70’s WORTHING ROTARY CARNIVAL – PALANTINE PARK. IMAGE COURTESY OF THE WORTHING JOURNAL

over view

The Worthing Rotary Carnival, held annually in Worthing, West Sussex, is a long-standing community event with roots dating back to the early 20th century. Organised by the Rotary Club of Worthing, the carnival began as a small community initiative aimed at bringing the town together while raising funds for local charities and causes.
Over the decades the event has changed to adapt to local conditions, and is not slowly recovering from the impact of COVID and cost of living crisis.
It is now expanding to grown into one of Worthing’s largest and most anticipated free family events, drawing local residents and visitors from outside the county.

the evolving face of change

SAME GOAL – DIFFERENT CHALLENGES

EARLY YEARS

The carnival began in the 1920s or 1930s as a parade through the town, featuring decorated floats, marching bands, and entertainers. Its primary goal was to raise funds for local charities, and this remains a core purpose of the carnival to this day.

WORLD WAR II

Like many events, the Worthing Rotary Carnival was suspended during World War II. Post-war, it resumed with renewed enthusiasm, reflecting the communal spirit of the time and becoming a symbol of recovery and community strength.

50s & 60s

The carnival had grown into a staple event for Worthing, with larger floats, more performers, and an increasingly festive atmosphere. Local businesses, schools, and community groups began to participate more actively, turning it into a true community-wide celebration.

RECENT YEARS

CHARITY FOCUS

2020’s

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