Welcome to Carnival
A Spectacular Celebration of our Communities!
STALLHOLDERS WANTED!
Luton International Carnival 2026!
Are you a trader, food vendor, charity, or craft maker looking for your next BIG opportunity? Join us at the Luton International Carnival 2026 – and be part of something truly special!
This year marks our 50th Anniversary, and we're returning to where it all began – the iconic Wardown Park. Thousands of visitors from across the community will be coming together to celebrate culture, diversity, and joy – and they'll be hungry, curious, and ready to shop! 🛍️🍜🎨
Stall options available: 🍦 Ice Cream Van 🛒 Trade Stall (3x3m or 3x6m) ℹ️ Charity/Info Stall (3x3m or 3x6m) 🎨 Craft Stall (3x6m) 🍖 Hot Food (3x4m+) 🍬 Sweets/Soft Drinks (3x3m)
Whether you're a seasoned stallholder or branching out for the first time, the Luton International Carnival is the perfect stage for your business or cause. With a colourful parade, live entertainment, and a massive footfall of families and culture lovers – your stall will be right at the heart of the action!
📅 Don't miss out – BOOKING CLOSES 30TH APRIL 2026
Secure your spot now and be part of Luton's most beloved celebration! 🌍✨
T&C's apply
Click here to register your interest👉https://tinyurl.com/yc6npp4b
Ghana Society Celebrates 20 Years of Partnership with Luton International Carnival as Event Marks Golden 50th Anniversary
Two decades of cultural collaboration honoured as Luton's premier celebration reaches milestone year
As Luton International Carnival prepares to celebrate its 50th Anniversary on Sunday 24 May 2026, one of its longest-standing community partners will also mark a significant milestone: The Ghana Society celebrates 20 years of bringing vibrant Ghanaian heritage to Luton's streets.
Since 2006, The Ghana Society has been an integral part of Luton International Carnival's diverse tapestry, annually showcasing traditional Ghanaian culture, dance, and costume design to audiences of thousands. This year's double anniversary – Luton International Carnival’s golden 50 years and The Ghana Society's 20-year partnership – represents a remarkable story of cultural collaboration and community cohesion in one of Britain's most diverse towns.
A Partnership Born from Pride
The Ghana Society first joined Luton International Carnival in 2006, bringing a 40-strong contingent of performers adorned in traditional Ghanaian dress. What began as a single community group's desire to celebrate their heritage has evolved into one of the carnival's most anticipated annual participants, demonstrating how Luton's African Caribbean-led carnival has become a platform for all of Luton's diverse communities.
"Twenty years ago, we took a chance on carnival," said Councillor Maria Lovell MBE, Founder of The Ghana Society. "We wanted our children to see their African Ghanaian heritage celebrated publicly, proudly, and joyfully. Luton International Carnival gave us that stage, and we've been dancing on it ever since. To celebrate our 20th year as carnival marks its 50th is incredibly special – it shows how our stories are woven together in the fabric of this town."
Claudette Whittingham, Executive Producer of UKCCA (UK Centre for Carnival Arts), which organises Luton International Carnival, explained: "The Ghana Society's 20-year journey with us exemplifies what carnival has become – a space where different cultures don't just coexist, they celebrate together.
St Patrick's Festival – Luton Irish Forum
SATURDAY 14TH MARCH 2026
The UKCCA team was delighted to attend the St Patrick's Festival, joining Luton Irish Forum for a spectacular celebration of Irish culture and community spirit.
The festivities took place at Central Square on Saturday. Highlights included the heartwarming Young@Heart Dementia Choir, the talented dancers of The Walshe Academy of Irish Dancing, the melodic voices of Luton Youth Cantores, and many more fabulous acts throughout the day.
It was a joy to be part of such a vibrant and inclusive community event — a true celebration of culture, creativity, and togetherness.
#StPatricksFestival #StPatricksDay #Luton #CommunitySpirit #LIC50 #GoldCarnival #LutonCarnival50
Honouring the Sound of Steel: Celebrating World Steelpan Day with Steel Pan in Motion
The rhythmic tones of the steelpan have long been at the heart of Caribbean Culture a sound that tells stories of resilience, celebration, and community. In 2023, the United Nations General Assembly officially declared 11 August as World Steelpan Day, marking a global recognition of this unique and powerful instrument.
Here at the UK Centre for Carnival Arts, we are proud to be part of this celebration. Steelpan is not just music it’s a cultural force that unites people of all ages, backgrounds, and communities.
We are especially honoured to collaborate with Steel Pan in Motion, our valued partner who delivers steelpan lessons and workshops throughout the year. The dedication to teaching, performing, and sharing the art of steelpan has brought music, confidence, and connection to countless members of our local community. This ensures we play our part in keeping this legacy alive.
Whether it’s a child discovering rhythm for the first time or an adult reconnecting with Caribbean roots, the impact of this work is deep and lasting.
As we celebrate World Steelpan Day, we reflect on the legacy of this instrument and the many voices who continue to keep its sound alive. A heartfelt thank you to Steel Pan in Motion for their passion, professionalism, and creativity.
Let’s keep the music playing loud and proud. 🥁
For More information head over to World Steelpan Day | United Nations
Environmental Ambition
In 2023 with the support of Luton’s Greener Future Fund, we embarked on our journey in reducing Luton Carnival’s CO2 emissions and upskilling local artists and students in suitable practices.
Steel Pan Classes Every Saturday at UKCCA!
Looking to learn the rhythm of the islands? Join us for Steel Pan Classes every Saturday at UKCCA! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, our expert instructors will guide you through the exciting world of steel pan music.
What’s included?
Hands-on steel pan lessons
Fun & interactive classes for all levels
Learn traditional & modern Caribbean tunes
No prior experience needed
When? Saturdays
Time: 11.15-12.45
Where? UKCCA, St Marys Road, LU1 3JA
Don’t miss out on the rhythm, the culture, and the fun! Secure your spot today!
For more info & to book, call 07712429586 or email info@steelpaninmotion.co
See you there!
JOURNAL OF FESTIVAL CULTURE INQUIRY AND ANALYSIS
Festival Culture & Research Education
The Foyle Foundation Artist Development Programme
The Foyle Foundation Artist Development Programme was launched in September 2023. The programme supports artists to develop their carnival arts and creative knowledge and skills. The programme also provides arts administration and business support so the participants can become established working artists.
BBC 3CR LIVE from the UKCCA!
We were thrilled to welcome BBC Three Counties Radio to the UK Centre for Carnival Arts on Friday 27th June for a special live broadcast from 6am to 10am for the Andy Collinas breakfast show, right here at the heart of our centre!
The morning was filled with live interviews and fantastic energy as members of the public dropped in to experience the show as it happened. A huge thank you to our Executive Director Claudette Whittingham and Executive Producer, Steve Pascal who joined the conversation live, alongside Ruth Reid from our Artistic Development Programme and her son MJ, as well as resident artist Steve Howe who also featured live on air.
It was a brilliant celebration of our community, creativity, and all that UKCCA stands for.
📻 Missed the show? You can catch up now on BBC Sounds!
