Celebrating half a century of culture as Preston Caribbean Carnival gears up for 50th anniversary

Preston Caribbean Carnival procession 2023 Pic: Mark McLoughlin

Preston Caribbean Carnival organisers are gearing up for a spectacular celebration of Caribbean culture like never before as the 50th anniversary event approaches.

Taking place on spring bank holiday weekend, the 2024 Carnival promises to be an exciting and memorable experience for all attendees.

The highlight of the event is set to be the lively procession through Preston, which will start from Moor Park at 12pm on Sunday 26 May.

Participants adorned in extravagant costumes representing the last 50 years of Carnival history will dance, drum, and revel along the route, showcasing the flamboyant spirit of Caribbean culture.

An amazing costume from Preston Caribbean Carnival in 2015

Councillor Peter Kelly, Cabinet member for Arts and Culture at Preston City Council, said: “This year’s carnival is a milestone celebration of the vibrant Caribbean culture that has enriched our city for half a century.

“The Caribbean Carnival is an opportunity to participate in the rich culture of the Caribbean right here in Preston.”

Following the procession, Moor Park will come alive with the sounds, tastes, and colours of the Caribbean during the family fun day. Attendees can expect live performances, sound systems, and a wide array of Caribbean and international cuisine. The park will also host various activities for children, including face painting, creative workshops, and inflatable rides.

Tracey Harris, Chairperson at Preston Caribbean Carnival said: “We will be showcasing some iconic carnival costume pieces from over the 50 years as part of our special anniversary celebrations.

“Local carnival dance troupes have practised all year in preparation for the event and we are all excited and looking forward to the day we can take them on the road through Preston city centre.”

Anticipating over 25,000 visitors, the Preston Caribbean Carnival is expected to draw attendees from across Lancashire and beyond, solidifying its place as a must-attend event on the Preston calendar.

Organisers ask that attendees aged 12 years and over kindly make a donation of £2 to help cover health and safety costs.

Kicking off the festivities is the One Park Event on Saturday 25 May.

This ticketed event will feature live stage performances from 12pm to 9pm by the best reggae artists, including headliner The Twinkle Brothers.

Attendees can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with food and drink available throughout the day.

Tickets for the One Park Event are available from Skiddle.

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This story was made possible by support from you, our readers, and a host of organisations in the city, through our Crowdfund Lancashire appeal, which unlocked support from the Lancashire Culture and Sport Fund provided by Lancashire County Council. You can see all our coverage and, if you know of an arts project or event in the city we should be covering, send details to contactus@blogpreston.co.uk.