Coventry Carnivals / Godiva Processions

The only named Godiva that I can't find a single picture for is the 1887 version, but there is a description - Lady Godiva was ably impersonated by Madam Smith, of Skegness. Her robes were of rich material, designed after a sketch dated 1050. The dress was of cream satin, confined at the waist by a richly-jewelled girdle. The sleeves were of exceedingly fine linen, fitting the upper part of the arms closely, and trimmed with broad bands of gold. The outer robe, or cloak, was of lovely rich rose velvet, its shades varying in the light to pink. This was brocaded with gold and lace and the lady's fine flowing hair fell gracefully over her shoulder. She wore a coronet, a jewelled star resplendent with gems, and jewelled bracelets. Godiva was mounted on a magnificent charger of dapple grey over 17 hands in height. She's also one of the few who haven't had their first name documented either. Most of the early Godivas were from out of town, middle aged and actresses. Probably due to the unsuitable nature of the role. Some could ride and others had never been on a horse in their life. The first to be photographed was Madame Letitia 1862, although she wasn't in costume at the time. There are at least 3 sketches of her ride. One of which is shown below. Look for the prominent banner - To The Pure All Things Are Pure. Next to be photographed was Miss Annie Panton in 1866.

I've been scanning this site for a mention of the carnival I took part in, must have been the mid 1950s which started from the Memorial Park. I, along with other Coventry Gauge & Tool apprentices, fitted out a works truck as a Disney Skiffle Band stage. One member of our group was very clever making life size heads out of paper. I don't know if anyone remembers us that day but I was the one dressed as Goofy playing the piano. I remember the shouts of 'Here they are' from family or friends? as we passed going up Queen Victoria Road.

Doesn't show much detail of Bull Yard but as we don't have a dedicated thread for there -

As it's been mentioned on here previously, I've just heard the 2026 Godiva Festival has been cancelled.

That is a shame - and strange in some ways, because years ago they managed to run a free festival, and considering that for the last few years we've had to pay to attend, I assumed the Council would have at least broken even, if not making a profit. Very sad.

The early festivals were little more than floats and marchers. They would have been provided by sponsoring businesses and clubs. Costs at every level have skyrocketed and elf and safety make it a nightmare.

As I understand it, the insurance costs for that sort of event are now prohibitive

Helen, yes, I think life is all about money. You have it or you don't. Not enough or too much. I used to love the carnivals when I was a kid. Now it's all demos (mainly political).

The free festivals were very much more than just a few floats. There were three or four stages and many big names. For example I remember the 2018 event included Hazel O'Connor, Gabrielle and Ronan Keating. All free. How much this cost the ratepayers is another matter.