Summer carnival comes to town in Stanley

We sponsor the bi-monthly street food market, organised by food market specialists Baccanalia, taking place on Friday 14 August at Stanley Front Street running from 3pm to 7.30pm.

 

Visitors will be able to get involved in carnival games including hook a duck, tin can alley and ring toss. There will be roaming entertainment and the popular giant deck chair will be making an appearance once again this year.

 

This free event is perfect to keep the children entertained throughout the school summer holidays. With warm, sunny weather, it will be a celebration of what the town has to offer.

 

Treat yourself to some authentic Sri Lankan street food packed with flavour from street trader, Kolamba Newcastle or alternatively, Greek food specialists Acropolis will be cooking up fresh food. If you’re after something a bit lighter, visit the Hedgehog Bakery who will be preparing homemade bakes, cakes and irresistible scones. Alternatively, why not grab yourself a freshly brewed coffee or iced drink from Fresh and Frothy.

 

Over 15,000 visitors have joined us in Stanley across all the markets held so far. The markets are part of a wider strategy to deliver positive change in the town and see the centre regenerate and thrive for the benefit of the town’s residents.

 

It’s part of our place shaping mission, which owns and manages one in four homes in Stanley. Victoria Keen, our Head of Place, Partnerships and Engagement, said: “This will be the fourth market we’ve organised in Stanley this year and they are proving to be popular, not just with local people, but with visitors coming from all over the North East. The markets have received funding from the North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and our aim is to provide a unique experience for visitors of all ages, young and old.

 

“The six-weeks school summer holidays can be challenging for families trying to keep the children busy and occupied throughout. Our brilliant summer carnival event, delivered in partnership with Baccanalia, is free to attend and will be a great opportunity to spend the afternoon with family and friends, have fun, engage in some of the exciting activities and even buy some of the delicious food or drinks from our excellent street traders. There’ll be something for everyone.”

 

The markets are part of Baccanalia’s Street Food Carousel, a county-wide programme of Street Food events. Alongside working with well-established food vendors, Baccanalia also supports local organisations and businesses to become street vendors and to improve their offers.

 

Thomas Wales, Managing Director of Baccanalia, said: “Stanley has really taken Street Food Carousel to heart, and this carnival edition is about rewarding that support with something playful, colourful and a little unexpected, with a special surprise roaming through the event. Turn up to be dazzled.”

 

The final Street Food Carousel in Stanley this year, will take place on Friday 9 October 2026.