The countdown to the Luton International Carnival 2024 continues to be a promising celebration of diversity, creativity, and togetherness for the entire community, with the council chief looking forward to “seeing our town come alive”.
Set to take place on Monday May 27 between 12 and 6pm, the carnival will cap off an incredible Bank Holiday weekend after the three-day Radio 1 Big Weekend, which is expected to see 100,000 people flock to Luton to see some of the biggest pop starts in the world perform at Stockwood Park.
This year’s carnival theme is ‘Luton Flying High’ and will bring a day of dazzling performances to interactive activities. Amongst the highlights of this year’s carnival, will be 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 said: “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, Luton Rising Board member responsible for community engagement, 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.”
For more information, visit: www.carnivalarts.org.uk/lutoninternationalcarnival2024
