Carlisle Fireshow Preparations Underway Ahead of 35,000 Visitor Event
Preparations are under way in Carlisle as organisers get ready for the city’s annual Fireshow, featuring a spectacular bonfire and thousands of fireworks.
The event will take place at Bitts Park on Saturday 31 October, with the display scheduled to begin at 6.30pm. Organised by Cumberland Council in partnership with Merlin Fireworks Ltd, the 37th edition is expected to attract more than 35,000 spectators, making it one of the region’s largest public gatherings. Work is already progressing on the central bonfire, which will form the focal point of the evening’s celebrations.
More than 2,000 fireworks will illuminate the sky, accompanied by music as part of the planned display. This year’s theme will celebrate Cumberland’s countdown to the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ, which will bring international cycling attention to the area next summer. The opening stage is scheduled to finish in Carlisle on Friday 2 July 2027, following a start in Edinburgh. The second stage will begin in Keswick on Saturday 3 July before travelling through the Lake District and Lancashire towards Liverpool.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s executive member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said the programme would combine the traditional bonfire and fireworks with a special video presentation linked to the upcoming cycling event. The Tour de France is one of the world’s most prominent sporting events, attracting spectators along its route and a substantial international television audience. The council’s Fireshow theme provides an opportunity to highlight Cumberland’s role in hosting stages of the 2027 race.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy food and family entertainment at the Fireshow Village in Castle Car Park, previously known as Devonshire Walk car park. These activities are scheduled to run from 5pm until 8.30pm on the evening of the event. Although a funfair is operating at the car park during the October half-term holiday, organisers have confirmed that the fairground will not operate on Fireshow night. Admission to the main display is free, and visitors are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance.
The event will also support local charitable causes through collections held by volunteers at the entrances. Donations will benefit Rotary in Carlisle, Every Life Matters and Meningitis Now, the latter being among the charities selected by Carlisle’s mayor, Anne Glendinning. Adult spectators are being asked to consider contributing at least £2, although entry remains free. Organisers have also confirmed that alcohol and personal fireworks will not be permitted at the event or within the Fireshow Village. Visitors are encouraged to follow event guidance and respect safety arrangements throughout the evening.
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