What a fantastic day for a festival!

With the temperature close to 30°C

and not a cloud in the sky, people of Fleet couldn't have asked for a

better day for the 2010 carnival. Although the procession was not

until later, the festivities began at around 2pm in The Views with

the opening of the fair. With stalls from various local businesses,

charities and interest groups and a variety of stalls selling

refreshments and snacks, as well as rides, there was plenty to see

and do throughout the afternoon.

The

people manning the stalls were friendly and welcoming. The Farnham

Astronomical society set up a gazebo as a welcome refuge from the

blistering sun and also gave people an opportunity to safely view the

aforementioned lunar body through their special telescope, along with

a large collection of member's photos of the night sky.

Soon

after the opening, we were treated to a fascinating performance of a

traditional Chinese Dragon dance by local members of the World Eagle

Claw Kung Fu Association in the main arena set up at The Views.

Despite the heat, the performers and musicians dazzled the crowds

with a lively and energetic performance complete with live musical

accompaniment.

Later

in the afternoon, the crowds were treated to a dramatic demonstration

by the Cobra Nago Capoeira group. Capoeira is a Brazilian Martial Art

which combines music and dance into fighting to produce a style

unlike any other. All 20+ members of the group took part; clapping,

dancing and singing as two of their number fought in the middle of

the ring with a variety of breath-taking moves.

Finally,

the procession began on Fleet Road just before 5pm. The procession

was lead by the young Emily McCulloch, the 2010 carnival Princess and

was followed by groups from all around the local area. The theme of

the year was “The World of Sport” and the many of the local

sporting clubs were out in full force. Please see the photos for more

details. However, special mention should go to the Fleet Infant

School for their “Round the World Yacht Race” procession and the

Poppets Day Nursery for their Cowes Week float.

Unfortunately,

I wasn't able to see much of the rest of the afternoon. But I

thoroughly enjoyed myself and am looking forward to seeing the

festival next year!