This February hosted the Hartlepool Valentines Fun fair run by Murphy's funfairs. The funfair opened on the 15th of February and remained open until February 25th. The fair set up behind the mecca bingo and boasted amusements such as The Ghost train, Speed Buzz, Project X and turbo jet, and access to the event cost £1. On entry, there was the possibility of receiving £5 off vouchers upon entrance into the fair.

Murphy's funfair has been hosting events in Hartlepool for the better part of 100 years, and also presents the amusements at other carnival events in the town, such as the Hartlepool Headland Carnival which runs in August. This event will have it's 101 year anniversary later in 2024. The official date for the anniversary event is confirmed to be Sunday the 10th of August this year, and funding and sponsorships for the day are currently being chosen. This annual carnival features sandcastle competitions, live music, raft races and a grand parade, and is a beloved summer activity for many families across the town.

 Hartlepool Resident and mother of 2 Linda Pierce has been attending the carnival for years with her says that "the funfair is one of my personal highlights of the year. It's brilliant to see the way the town come together and have some fun when events like these show up. My two boys love the carnival and always ask when it's coming back!"

The arrival of the Valentines Funfair has definitely triggered the beginning of the carnival craze, and anticipation of the next amusement event is already starting.