Mousehole Carnival

Sunshine, Smiles, and Surprises at the Mousehole Carnival

Mousehole came alive as crowds gathered for the annual Mousehole Carnival, filling the harbour with colour, music, and laughter. The day’s festivities brought together locals, visitors, and community groups - including the ever‑enthusiastic Penzance Rotarians, who were spotted having great fun in the sunshine manning their Human Fruit Machine and a tombola stand with soft toy prizes.

Highlights from the Day

The carnival began with a lively procession from The Old Coastguard Hotel to South Quay Beach, followed by the official opening and address at the South Quay Arena.

From there, it was non-stop entertainment: live music filled the air. Street performances featured a roving juggler and a traditional Punch and Judy show that had both kids and adults chuckling.

The Artists’ Challenge on The Terrace, North Quay, inspired painters of all ages, while the Kids’ Creative Corner buzzed with glitter, crafts, and “mini masterpieces”.

The aromas of sizzling BBQ, candy floss, and fresh coffee filled the air, complemented by the licensed bar for those in need of a cool drink in the summer heat. It was a day of togetherness, creativity, and generosity.

Rotary’s End Polio Now Success

Across the Mousehole Carnival and Morvah Pasty Fair, Rotary’s Human Fruit Machine and Tombola raised £368.82, boosted to £1,106.46 thanks to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s 2‑to‑1 match. 

All funds go directly to End Polio Now, supporting the global effort to eradicate wild poliovirus. Polio cases have fallen dramatically: just 596 cases worldwide over the last ten years, compared with 350,000 cases every year before vaccination campaigns began. 

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative has prevented more than 20 million people from being paralysed since 1988 but the job isn’t finished, and continued support remains vital.