24/04/2025 - Embracing diversity and togetherness in celebration at Luton International Carnival 2025

The carnival’s enduring success is backed by a collaborative effort from an array of sponsors, partners and community organisations. They include: Headline sponsor Luton Rising along with Luton Council, Step Forward Luton, PRS PPL, BT Events Ltd, Arts Council of England, Bedfordshire Luton Community Foundation, The Steel Charitable Trust, Youth Music, Penrose Roots, Hatters, Steel Pan in Motion, Pop Up Finder, Ukraine Association, The Point, Tesco, Amazon, and Luton Association of Mas.

There is something for everyone this year, from fantastically colourful performances to plenty of interactive activities. Among the highlights of this year’s carnival, Step Forward Luton’s popular ‘Chill Out Zone’ will return for its second year, inviting families to relax on free deck chairs and bean bags from 11am to 3pm at Hat Gardens, Luton’s beloved pocket park on Bute Street. It’s the perfect spot to relax by the River Lea and soak up the sunshine while waiting for the parade to arrive between the day’s exciting festival activities.

There will also be a Carnival Workshop taking place in Central Square at The Point from 12pm to 5pm which is free to any and all who’d like to participate. Guided by experienced carnival artists, you’ll have the opportunity to create your own carnival artwork. Don’t forget the immersive family experience led by the extremely talented Aaron Spendelow taking place at Luton Central Library, with three free shows available on the day, starting at 11am and running till 2pm. 

Mark Fowler, Interim CEO at Luton Council, stated “The Luton International Carnival is not just an event; it represents the heart and soul of our community. It’s just one of over 40 free family events that happen all year round in Luton, bringing communities to our town centre in a safe, family-friendly atmosphere.  As we celebrate its 49th year we reflect on how it unites different generations and cultures and showcases what makes our town so unique. 

"This year the incoming Mayor of Luton will be taking part in the carnival parade for the first time ever, wearing the mayoral robes and chain of office. I’m also looking forward to taking part 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, music and entertainment on offer.”

Following the tremendous success of last year, the Luton International Carnival is once again at the forefront of creating eco-friendly, fun family events, and this year’s parade will be no exception. From costumes hand-crafted using recycled materials to bikes and push-and-pull floats and music powered by innovative electric speakers, the carnival is committed to delivering events that are not only entertaining but also kinder to the planet.

 This year, we will showcase some of the council e-cargo bikes in the parade procession to highlight their versatility and effectiveness for everyday use. This initiative aligns with our and the UK Centre of Carnival Arts commitment to the pledge of ensuring that Luton becomes a carbon-neutral town by 2040. 

Councillor Javeria Hussain, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors of Luton Rising, said “The carnival is a fantastic family event with a great community atmosphere, and we are delighted to once again be supporting it. Events such as these would not be possible without the success of our airport, which generates funds that are reinvested into the community. I’d encourage anyone who enjoys a great community atmosphere to come along to it - you will be amazed by the display of rich diversity, culture, and sense of fun through a parade of spectacular costumes, music and dance.  

"The additional green activities promise to make the event eco-friendly again this year and show our shared commitment to ensuring Luton is a carbon-neutral town by 2040. We hope you will join us and see what makes our town, and its people, so special.”

 Claudette Whittingham, Executive Director of the UK Centre for Carnival Arts, noted, “The carnival thrives thanks to the teamwork of all stakeholders involved. We are beyond grateful for the continued support and excited to create a memorable experience for everyone at this year’s event.”

 Mark your calendars for the 49th edition of Luton International Carnival - a fantastic opportunity to come out and celebrate diversity, inclusion, and community spirit. Join us on the day and let’s create some unforgettable memories!

For more information, visit the Carnival's web page.