Applications to take part in the city’s much‑loved Lord Mayor’s Procession are now open.
Community groups, charities, schools, performers, artists and businesses and are invited to apply for a place in this year’s spectacular parade, which will take to the streets on Saturday 11 July, as part of the Lord Mayor’s Weekend.
A theme that celebrates Norwich’s natural spirit
The 2026 theme, Wild About Norwich, invites participants to celebrate the city’s untamed beauty, green spaces, wildlife and creative energy. Entrants are encouraged to draw inspiration from:
- Norwich’s natural habitats – Mousehold Heath, the River Wensum, woodlands, birds, insects and other local wildlife
- Folklore and imagined creatures – stories, legends and magical interpretations of the wild
- Eco-conscious creativity – recycled, reused or natural materials that bring sustainability to centre stage
Entry is free, making it inclusive for groups of all shapes and sizes. Participants are encouraged to think big with floats on wheels, bold puppets, vibrant costumes, sound, movement and interactive performance. And for the first time ever, spectators will be able to vote for their favourite entry, with top prizes of up to £300 up for grabs.
Cllr Kidman, Norwich City Council’s cabinet member for culture and wellbeing, said:
“The Lord Mayor’s Weekend is one of the highlights of Norwich’s year – a vibrant, welcoming and completely free celebration for everyone in our city.
“We’re incredibly proud of the creativity, community spirit and joy the Lord Mayor’s Procession brings to our streets, and I would encourage groups of all kinds to apply and be part of this year’s event.
Key dates
- Application deadline: Friday 1 May
- Lord Mayor’s Procession: Saturday 11 July
Awards and prizes
Entries will be judged on creativity, interpretation of the theme, and enthusiasm, with prizes including:
- 1st prize: £300
- 2nd prize: £200
- 3rd prize: £150
- Lord Mayor’s Special Award: £150 – recognising an outstanding individual contribution
- People’s Choice Award: £150 – new for 2026, voted for by spectators during the procession
How to apply
Participation is free, but all groups must submit an application form detailing their plans. It doesn’t matter if ideas are in an early stage, the sooner you’re on the list the more the city council’s events team and creative contacts can support entries.
Groups of all sizes are welcome, but entries must be safe, robust, family-friendly, and pushed, pulled, wheeled, carried, or worn - no motorised vehicles. Sustainability is strongly encouraged, and support is available for groups needing advice.
A celebration for the whole city
Starting from Norwich Cathedral and winding through the city centre before finishing in Chapelfield Gardens, this year’s parade promises colour, music, movement, and a joyful celebration of Norwich’s wild side. This year’s route also incorporates a shorter, more accessible option to make participation possible for as many people as possible. This section of the route will avoid narrower roads to reduce the impact on those with sensory sensitivities, and it also avoids the more cobbles for those with mobility aids.
More details of plans for the weekend’s festivities will be published soon. Watch this space!
