Get ready to celebrate Norwich in full bloom as our Lord Mayor’s Weekend returns from Friday 10 - Sunday 12 July 2026. This year's Lord Mayor's Procession embraces the theme “Wild About Norwich”. In the coming months we’ll be adding further details to help you enjoy this free summer event.
This year’s theme is Wild About Norwich, a chance to celebrate the untamed beauty of our city and its surroundings. Think wild spaces, woodland magic, rare wildlife, birds, and all the creatures that call Norfolk home.
Draw inspiration from:
Get imaginative! If you’re able, create floats that roll on wheels, vibrant carnival puppets and costumes that celebrate everything Wild about Norwich. Add movement, music, and surprises, drumbeats, eco-friendly giveaways, or playful performances that make the crowd smile.
Participation is free, but you must complete an application form and return it to us by Friday 1 May 2026.
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | Monday 2 March 2026 |
| Application deadline | Friday 1 May 2026 |
| The event | Saturday 11 July 2026 |
| Prizes presentation at City Hall | Thursday 16 July 2026 at midday |
Let’s make this year’s parade a celebration of Norwich’s wild side - its wildlife, green spaces, and vibrant creativity!
Consider these principles - noise, height, and interaction. The more visible and audible you are, the better! We welcome puppets, instruments, live or amplified music, and choreographed movement. Engage with the crowds – they’re there to cheer you on!
Think sustainably - Wherever possible, use eco-friendly, recycled, or repurposed materials in your costumes, props, and floats. Aim to design entries that can be reused or recycled after the event. Creativity and sustainability go hand in hand so let’s make this a carnival that celebrates both nature and responsibility.
Ensure structures are stable and have suitable braking or stop systems. The route includes slopes, and the pace will be a slow walk, taking about an hour to complete. The parade will move continuously, with two to three scheduled stops for up to 2 minutes.
All entries, costumes, and activities must be family-friendly. We may ask you to turn down excessively loud sound systems.
Entries will be judged on creative interpretation of the theme, quality, and enthusiasm.
Impress the judges on Theatre Street to win:
The Lord Mayor’s Special Award will be given to an individual who has made a significant contribution to this year’s procession, whether in planning, supporting an entry, designing a costume, choreographing a show, or shining on the day.
