The countdown to the Luton International Carnival 2024 continues to be a promising celebration of diversity, creativity, and togetherness for the entire community. Set to take place on Monday 27 May 2024 between 12 and 6pm, the carnival is gearing up to be the epitome of family-friendly, eco-friendly, and sustainable fun with the theme ‘Luton Flying High’.
Spearheaded by a collaborative effort from sponsors, partners, funders, and charities, the carnival aims to showcase the best of what our town, neighbours, and friends from across the UK have to offer. The roll call of support includes: Lead Sponsor Luton Rising, alongside Luton Council, Luton BID, Step Forward Luton, TUI, Lidl, Amazon, PRS PPL, Tesco, BT Events Ltd, Arts Council of England, Bedfordshire Luton Community Foundation, Foyle Foundation, Link Community Centre, Ukraine Association, The Culture Trust, Active Luton, University of Bedfordshire, Skill Lab, Luton Association of Mas, The Mall, ACLT, BBC3 Counties and BBC Radio1. From dazzling performances to interactive activities, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Amongst the highlights of this year’s carnival, Step Forward Luton will present an enchanting Flamingo Storytelling session in Hat Gardens. Children can enjoy an exclusive Luton-themed tale told by Taleshakers storytellers, with shows at 12pm, 1pm and 2pm. Attendees can also witness the unveiling of Step Forward Luton’s new flamingo character in puppet form and participate in naming them through an exciting competition.
Reflecting on the significance of the carnival, Robin Porter, Chief Executive for Luton Council remarked: “Last year’s 47th carnival was a fantastic celebration which showcased Luton’s rich diversity and sense of fun, and it was a joy to see so many different generations, cultures and communities come together on our streets. One of the highlights was a giant cycle squid, as well as roaming dinosaurs, live steel pan performances and interactive dance activities from some amazing talents – and I’m sure this year will be just as spectacular. I’m looking forward to once again taking part in the parade in a different colourful costume, with a large contingent of council staff, councillors and their families and seeing our town come alive, as thousands of people join in with the celebrations and enjoy the delicious food, entertainment and music on offer.
“The carnival means a lot to so many people and gives them the opportunity to express themselves freely and creatively, whilst celebrating togetherness. It truly is an event for everyone, and I’d encourage anyone who enjoys a great community atmosphere to come along and see for yourself later this year just what makes our town, and its people, so special.”
This year the carnival is going green and replacing gas-guzzling vehicles and loud generators with an electric truck, e-cargo bikes and push-and-pull floats powered by electric speakers.
Councillor Javeria Hussain, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for Luton Rising said: “The carnival is a highlight in the town’s calendar and we are delighted to once again be supporting it. The additional green activities that promise to make the event even more eco-friendly this year, show our shared commitment to ensuring Luton is a carbon-neutral town by 2040. The carnival is a real ‘feel good’ event which gives communities the chance to showcase their culture, vibrancy and sense of fun and brings everyone in the town together – it really is a fantastic day out for all the family.”
Claudette Whittingham, Executive Director for the UK Centre for Carnival Arts stated: “The collaboration between all stakeholders is what drives the success of the carnival. We are grateful for the support we have been shown and look forward to making this event a legacy for future generations.”
The Luton International Carnival 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of community spirit, cultural diversity, and shared joy. Save the date and be part of the magic!
For more information, visit: www.carnivalarts.org.uk/lutoninternationalcarnival2024