26/06/2023 - Flamingo Fiesta Takes Flight

At the heart of the event, the UK Centre for Carnival Arts will be hosting a flamboyant Flamingo Mask Making Workshop, between 12 noon and 4pm. Children will have the opportunity to unleash their creativity and design their very own flamingo masks with the free materials provided.

National Children’s Carnival Week is the brain-child of Luton-based UK Centre for Carnival Arts. The initiative encourages communities to engage children in carnival arts and create uplifting experiences, up and down the country.

Cllr James Taylor, portfolio holder for Inclusive Economy at Luton Council, said: “Luton’s internationally renowned carnival means that carnival arts hold a special place in our town and I am thrilled to see them being celebrated in our new pocket park as part of National’s Children’s Carnival Week.”

At 2pm, experts from Whipsnade Zoo will be also in attendance to deliver a fascinating educational talk on their pink feathered friends. Visitors will learn about the natural habitats, behaviours, and insights into the world of these magnificent creatures.

The newly opened Hat Gardens became the proud home of the ‘Arndale’s’ famous pink flamingos and these iconic symbols bring back fond memories for those who used the visit The Mall shopping centre during the 1970s-90s.

Follow this link for more information about events at the Hat Gardens.