Thought: Are carnivals an outdated idea?

Carnivals – will they still be here in 50 years time?
Sandy Carnival 2012Sandy Carnival 2012
Sandy Carnival 2012

Biggleswade and Sandy both have their own carnivals, which have attracted vast crowds in times gone by.

But in recent years at many carnivals elsewhere have been fewer floats, fewer events and fewer spectators.

Perhaps these events are on their last legs. After all, it’s hard to compete with smartphones and computers.

On the other hand there are still plenty of people who really care about nurturing a community spirit and living life in the real world, surrounded by their friends and neighbours.

Perhaps the current decline in participation is merely a blip in the history of carnivals and once the novelty of the current technology has worn off people will come back into the fold.

After all, it’s not just the carnivals; there are the much loved May Day festivities in Ickwell, there’s Shefford Gala and there’s the Rose Queen Fete in Blunham (tomorrow, procession from Park Lane at 2pm then events at the lower school).

There’s also the hugely popular Party on Potton – so perhaps carnival spirit is as present as ever, just evolving.

Do you think carnivals still have a chance now? Email views to letters@ biggleswadechronicle.co.uk

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