Luton International Carnival will return to Wardown Park this spring in what organisers and councillors have described as a homecoming for one of the town’s most significant cultural events.
The move marks the first time in over five years the carnival will be staged in the park and comes as the event prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary alongside the 150th anniversary of Luton becoming a borough.
The UK’s largest one-day carnival will take place on Sunday 24 May 2026, with the parade travelling from Luton town centre to Wardown Park, where the main celebrations will be held from midday until 6pm.
Organisers said the decision to return to Wardown Park reflected strong community feeling and a desire to reconnect the carnival with its roots.
Steve Pascal, executive producer at the UK Centre for Carnival Arts, said the announcement marked the beginning of a new phase for the event.
He wrote on Facebook that the announcement, “represents the start of a next stage. Another phase of the ever changing face of Carnival in Luton and Carnival festivals throughout the UK.
“In Luton, UKCCA strives to consolidate an event for the diverse people of Luton and Bedfordshire. Our USP and vision for the event is that it is accessible, sustainable and viable.
“This can only be achieved with the support of Lutonians and essential stakeholders such as Luton Borough Council and our headline sponsor Luton Rising, who have steadfastly supported the event, which is not a trend obvious around the country these days. There is more to come so watch this space.”
The carnival, which was first held in 1976 and inspired by African-Caribbean culture, typically attracts around 25,000 visitors. Prior to the outbreak of the Covid pandemic in 2020, organisers had moved the event into the town centre, but confirmed the return to Wardown Park was in response to the community’s wishes.
Luton councillor Javeria Hussain, portfolio holder for culture and vice chair of Luton Rising, said the location carried deep significance.
“Carnival is returning to its roots,” she told the BBC, adding: “To be able to return to its spiritual home, to celebrate its 50th anniversary, means a lot.”
Luton Rising, the council-owned company that owns London Luton Airport, has been confirmed as headline sponsor, with organisers saying its backing would help deliver a greener and more sustainable event.
A statement from Luton Rising said it was “incredibly proud” to support the carnival in partnership with Luton Council, describing Wardown Park as “the perfect backdrop for a day filled with joy, creativity and community spirit”.
The UK Centre for Carnival Arts said the 2026 event would feature dazzling costumes, live music and performances designed to bring generations together, describing it as a family celebration open to everyone.
The return to Wardown Park will also form part of a wider programme of events marking Luton’s borough 150th anniversary year, with council leaders viewing the carnival as a flagship moment in the celebrations.
Further details about the parade route and full programme are expected to be announced closer to the event.
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