Penrith’s May Day Carnival has been saved by the town council.
Its future was in doubt after Penrith Lions, who led the event for 40 years, said it was bowing out.
Now Penrith Town Council has agreed to step in, after Councillor Charlie Shepherd asked his colleagues to help, and it will go ahead for 2025.
The council said: “The May Day Carnival is a key event in the town’s calendar which brings together local charities, community groups and performers to deliver a
programme of entertainment for local people and tourists alike.”
Doug Lawson, Penrith Town Council chair and Penrith mayor, said: “On behalf of the council, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Penrith Lions Club, a voluntary organisation who have put so much time and effort into organising the May Day Carnival event for the town for 40 years.
“Looking forward to 2025, I am so pleased to see the council agreeing to take a lead role. I’m sure it’s something our residents would have hoped and perhaps
expected of us!
“The council previously supported the Penrith Lions Club with the delivery of the 2024 event – allowing us to develop an understanding of the event planning and
requirements – so I am confident that we will be able to deliver a fantastic event for the town next year.
“The council has already committed to working with other organisations in Penrith including the Arts and Culture Stakeholder Group to make this a great
event, so watch this space in the coming months for more information about next year’s May Day Carnival!”
Coun Shepherd, chair of the council’s finance committee, said: “The May Day event provides a terrific opportunity for residents to come together and celebrate the beginning of summer through an enjoyable day of entertainment.
“I believe that the people of Penrith expect that the event continues – so I am glad to see that the council agreed with the motion put forward!”
