Narberth is gearing up once again for another ‘swashbuckling’ carnival this month - with traders and businesses asked this year to take on board a special theme.

Although there will still be an ‘anything goes’ theme for general fancy dress entrants and floats, shops, pubs, restaurants and businesses in the town are being asked to ‘walk the plank’ for 2025’s event, with a special pirate theme being introduced.

The carnival is also due to revert back to its usual time of 2pm as well this year.

“Ahoy, town shopkeepers, landlords and landladies of Narberth. As part of Narberth Civic Week, we’re gearing up for a swashbuckling Carnival Morning — and this year, we want every shop, pub and restaurant in town to join our pirate takeover!” explained Civic Week chair Cllr Chris Walters.

“That’s right — it’s time to turn your lovely little business into a full-blown pirate ship! Feathered hats, eye patches, treasure chests, parrots, and plenty of “ARRR!” encouraged. Let’s fill the town with enough pirates to scare off the Royal Navy. Bonus points for pirate puns and dramatic performances.

“Remember, take lots of photos of your pirate crew and your decked-out shop — there may just be booty (aka prizes) for the best-dressed crew!” continued Cllr Walters.

“An important note - this is only for town shopkeepers, pubs, restaurants and businesses — if you’re a member of the public taking part in the Narberth Carnival Parade, then you’re free to go with the ‘anythig goes’ theme!

“Be as wild, wacky, and wonderful as you like! Let’s make this year’s Narberth Carnival a legendary one — full of fun, laughter, and a good old bit of pirate chaos. Prepare your ships, captains…we sail on Saturday, July 26th!”

A road closure licence has also been obtained for this year’s carnival parade.

“After a long (and yes, painful) wait, it’s finally official — the roads will be closed for the carnival!” revealed Cllr Walters.

“We’re beyond thrilled to bring the full magic of the parade back to the streets of Narberth — and it wouldn’t have happened without the amazing help of Callum from Communic8. A massive tahnk you to him for working with us to get everything sorted and Pembrokeshire County Council for granting it!

“Now the countdown really begins. Get your costumes ready, bring your party spirit, and we’ll see you on the streets!”

Narberth Civic Week is just around the corner (running from Sunday, July 20 to 26) – which of course is a brilliant week of fun, music, kids’ events, culminating in Pembrokeshire’s longest-running carnival.

This years’ family-friendly event will feature plenty of Civic Week traditions such as the Pram Push (weather dependent); Fire Services Open Day; a pub quiz; and Milford Haven Town Band’s ‘Brass on the Grass’ on the Town Moor.

There will also be new events introduced this year, including Parkour sessions, and a Teddy Bears’ Picnic.

Every pound raised gets reinvested into local causes, so come along, join in the fun, and help keep giving back to the amazing community.