The ''Journeys of Discovery'' carnival theme would feature stilt-walkers in wearable lanterns and giant lanterns, including a sailing ship, a double-hulled waka and a hot air balloon, artistic director Juliet Novena Sorrel said yesterday.
''We have developed some great new costumes and we have some wonderful new performance groups involved this year.''
Despite a week of rain and snow, the carnival was likely to proceed today, event manager Paul Smith said.
''We've been in constant contact with MetService and they've confirmed that Saturday is the best available day, so it's very likely we'll be going ahead,'' he said.
''There will be the occasional light shower, so people should dress up warmly. But the wind will be light, which is the major factor for us. Fireworks and stilt-walkers don't go very well in the wind.''
Up to 10,000 people usually attend the annual event, which this year will also feature a fireworks display, fire performances, food stalls and live music by Tahu and the Takahes. The Octagon will be closed to traffic from 2pm-8pm. The carnival opens at 5.30pm in the Octagon and the procession starts at 6pm.
The fireworks display starts at 6.25pm, followed by a fire performance at 6.30pm and live music from Tahu and The Takahes until 7.30pm.
Concerts by Cat Ruka, Dudley, Jess and Edward Benson and Piupiu-Maya Turei and Fauxhound will follow the carnival, in the Dunedin Public Art Gallery at 8pm.
MetService predicts rain and sleet will clear early this afternoon with a forecast high of 5degC and northwesterlies developing in the evening.
Any cancellation will be announced by noon today on the carnival website, Facebook page and on radio. Tomorrow is the reserve day.
