Next Carnival: August 2012

From humble beginings, the Leicester Caribbean Carnival has in recent years become a hugely popular multicultural event, celebrating the diverse cultures in Leicester in addition to keeping the cultural traditions of the Caribbean alive. It began in 1985 as an event to keep the cultural traditions of the Caribbean alive has now become a multi-cultural event portraying the varied cultural diversities represented in Leicester.

Leicester Caribbean Carnival celebrates 26 years on 6th August 2011 with the theme "Myths, Folklore and Culture". Unlike previous years there won't be a city centre street parade. Instead all activities including the parade of troupes and Individuals will take place on Victoria Park.

The official opening Ceremony will take place at 12:30pm at the main stage to be followed at 1pm with the parade of local Costumed Groups and individuals.

So far fifteen troupes have registered for this year's procession which will be led by the 2011 Leicester Caribbean Carnival Queen, Kiran Wiltshire. Kiran is also the 1st Runner Up in the EMCCAN Carnival Queen Show which was held at the University of Derby on Saturday 25th June. The first ever EMCCAN (East Midlands Caribbean Carnival Arts Network) Carnival Costume Queen 2011 will also participate in the procession. Visiting Troupes from London, Luton, Bedford, Nottingham, Derby and Leeds will also participate in this year's carnival procession which promises to be just as great as last year even though it is confined to Victoria Park.

The Main Stage will be just as exciting as previous years with performances from artists from throughout the UK including some home grown talent. New features this year will include a Cultural Display Area and a Gospel Fest. The ever popular conscious reggae sound "Abashanti" , stalls selling arts and craft, food from around the world, promotional units as well as giveaways, fun fair and a children's play area when combined will help to make this year's event the best ever.

Leicester Caribbean Carnival is being made possible through funding from the Leicester City Council, Arts Council England through its Grants for the Arts Programme and the unwavering support of our vendors.

Hours: 12:30pm - 8pm