Join us for a night of excitement and community spirit as we celebrate the unique tradition of the Ottery St Mary Carnival Tar Barrels. Witness the spectacular sight of flaming barrels being carried through the streets, igniting a sense of wonder and camaraderie among locals and visitors alike. This unforgettable event is not just a celebration; it’s a testament to our rich heritage and the vibrant culture that binds us together. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this extraordinary experience.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES
This event has its dangers but should be a safe enjoyable experience for everyone. Please always adhere to all instructions given by our event stewards and barrel marshals. By choosing to come to our event you have accepted the risks involved and take responsibility for your own actions.
The streets of Ottery St Mary on the 5th become very crowded, you are in close proximity of fire and burning tar barrels.
If you are scared of fire or do not like being in crowded areas then this is not the event for you. The evening tar barrels start from 7pm onwards. These are not suitable for small children, persons with limited mobility, or animals. It is too crowded.
MOBILE PHONE SIGNAL CAN BE INTERMITTENT THROUGHOUT THE TOWN
EVENT STEWARDS AND BARREL MARSHALS
Will be monitoring and assisting with crowd control, they can be easily identified with high visibility vests and jackets.
CHILDREN
No pushchairs at the event please. You are strongly advised not to bring children after 7pm. Should you choose to ignore this advise and a child is separated from a parent during the night, seek help from any of our event stewards or barrel marshals.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO RUN AWAY FROM THE BARREL
As it approaches, take a step back and lean away from it. Attempting to run away can cause crowd surges and could cause injury to fellow participants.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TOUCH THE LIT BARREL AS IT PASSES.
YOU MAY CAUSE INJURY TO YOUR SELF AND OTHERS
FIREWORKS
Never bring fireworks with you. The police will very quickly remove you from the event if you are seen to be letting off fireworks.
TOILETS
There are toilets situated at locations throughout the town, including the car park at Sainsbury’s, which is behind the main street.
THIS IS A GLASS AND PLASTIC FREE EVENT.
DO NOT BRING GLASS BOTTLES WITH YOU – THEY ARE A HAZARD TO EVERYONE.
Please purchase our reusable two pint, pint or half pint cups. (or bring your own) and either take it home with you to use again and again or donate it to any steward or the merchandise shop or any of the designated recycling points. For all other rubbish please use the bins provided. Do not drop your litter where it may become a danger to the barrel rollers or spectators.
Please act responsibly, there is alcohol consumed by some of the public on the night. Stupid acts by the minority could jeopardise the future of our event. Help us on the night by discouraging any act you think could cause harm or injury to anyone attending the event
Complete our short survey below to enter our free draw, and be in with a chance of winning a luxury two-night stay in award-winning accommodation in Devon.