VOICE Commemorative Supplement
Luton International Carnival 2026:
A Golden Intersection of History, Culture and Community Power
In 2026, Luton will stand at a rare and powerful crossroads of history. Three eras of civic, cultural and community achievement converge as Luton International Carnival 2026 (LIC26) celebrates its 50th Anniversary, against the backdrop of 150 years of Luton Borough Council, 100 years of the HAT Parade, and 20 years of the Ghana Society at Luton Carnival.
Together, these milestones tell a story far bigger than a single event — they reflect the evolution of a town shaped by migration, artistry, activism and collective resilience.
Taking place on Sunday 24 May 2026, from 12 noon to 6pm, Luton International Carnival returns to its spiritual home at Wardown Park, under the theme GOLD — a symbol of value, legacy and endurance.
Carnival as Living History
Luton Carnival was born in the mid1970s, emerging from community organising, youth arts and Caribbean Carnival traditions at a time when Black and migrant communities were asserting visibility and cultural pride in British public life. Fifty years on, Carnival
throughout the UK, remains one of the UK’s most powerful examples of communityled cultural production.
Its 2026 anniversary sits alongside the 150th anniversary of Luton Borough Council, offering a moment to reflect on how formal civic structures and grassroots culture have often intersected — and sometimes collided — in shaping the town’s identity.
Equally significant is the 100th anniversary of the HAT Parade, a uniquely Lutonian tradition rooted in the town’s industrial heritage. Long before Carnival took to the streets, hatmaking workers paraded through Luton to mark both labour and leisure.
In LIC26, this workingclass history finds fresh expression alongside African, Caribbean and global Carnival traditions — a reminder that pageantry has always been an instrument of visibility and voice.
Ghanaian Presence and PanAfrican Continuity
One of LIC26’s defining commemorations is 20 years of the Ghana Society at Luton Carnival. Over the past two decades, the Ghanaian community has become a central pillar of the event, bringing masquerade,
drumming, dance, symbolism and intergenerational knowledge into Carnival space.
In 2026, the African Village Zone will spotlight West African masquerade traditions, honouring West African cultural continuity while firmly situating it within Britain’s Black diaspora story. This is not cultural display for novelty’s sake — it is cultural infrastructure, built and sustained by community ownership.
A Parade that Reflects the Town
The Carnival Parade will depart Market Hill at 1pm, travelling through Luton Town Centre, passing Luton Town Hall, and moving along New Bedford Road into Wardown Park. It will feature local and regional dignitaries, schools, charities, community and cultural groups (all in costume), Luton Scouts, and a symbolic moment of mainstream recognition appearance by BBC Three Counties Radio Breakfast Show (LIC26 Radio Media Partner) presenter Andy Collins.
But the heart of the parade remains its community makers — costume builders, artists, dancers, volunteers and a very small staff team, whose
labour transforms streets into storylines.
Sustainability as Cultural Responsibility
In its golden year, Luton Carnival is also redefining what sustainable celebration looks like.
• Parade transport will be fully electric for the first time
• Sounds mostly sustainable
• Costumes are predominantly made from recycled and reused materials
• The event’s carbon footprint has been reduced by over 70% in three years
This is Carnival that understands environmental justice as inseparable from social justice — a principle long embedded in Black and global majority community thinking.
Zones of Belonging
The LIC26 festival site at Wardown Park will be structured across eight themed Carnival Zones, alongside the Stanley Thurston Family Funfair. Each zone offers free, accessible activities, from the Main Stage with BSLsupported performances, to a Quiet Zone rooted in wellbeing and SENinclusive storytelling, a youthled DJ Zone developing professional pathways and
UNITED BOUNDERS Studio
Bus will be on site, steel pan at the bandstand, food and culture spaces, a Health & Wellbeing Zone, the African Village, and a Medieval Heritage Zone reflecting England’s deeper historical threads.
Together, these zones offer more than entertainment, they create a living map of Luton’s many identities.
Community Power
Behind the Spectacle
LIC26 is proudly supported by Headline Sponsor Luton Rising, alongside a wider sponsor portfolio and dedicated stakeholders. Yet, organisers are clear: without a committed staff team and tireless volunteers, Carnival simply would not happen.
That reality mirrors the wider story of Black British cultural production — sustained by collective effort, creativity and an unshakeable commitment to community access.
A Golden Future
As Luton International Carnival marks 50 years, LIC26 is not merely looking back, it is asserting Carnival’s place in the future of British culture. At a moment
when public space, cultural funding and community voice remain contested, Luton Carnival stands as proof that grassroots culture endures.
In 2026, the streets will shine GOLD — not just in colour, but in the value of shared history, collective joy and the power of community to shape its own narrative.
The UK Centre for Carnival Arts (UKCCA) is committed to ensure that Luton Carnival continues the proud traditions, inherited from its international and local roots. Our ethos and drive are shaped by addressing challenges (particularly around funding and compliance) and reducing their impact by embracing them as ‘design parameters’, i.e. factors in doing cultural business.
We see barriers as an opportunity to develop collective response and enhance engagement across characteristic communities, culture and generations. Fundamentally dictated by the result of Reflection, Excellence and Legacy.
Carnival is ‘ALL OF US TOGETHER, AS ONE.’ For everybody.
VOICE Commemorative Supplement
These horses don’t run, they
and they’re hundred percent
dance,
sustainable!
THE STORY
These magnificent theatrical costume pieces were rescued from a National Theatre Company’s archives. Rather than letting them gather dust (or worse, end up in landfill), we’ve given them new life as carnival art.
THE PARTNERSHIP
• Penrose Roots – technical repurposing and engineering
• Utopia Mas (David & Judith Brown) – carnival design adaptation
THE IMPACT
• Zero waste – theatrical pieces repurposed, not replaced
• Circular economy – giving professional-quality materials new purpose
• Visual proof – green carnival can be breathtaking
WHY IT MATTERS
Luton International Carnival aims to be one of Britain’s greenest carnival:
• NO carbon-based fuel trucks
• NO carbon-based generators - please check the accuracy of this with Pascal
• Recycled & repurposed costumes
• E-cargo bike sound systems
• Sustainable materials throughout - turning waste into wonder. The Golden Horses aren’t just beautiful, they’re a statement: Sustainability doesn’t mean sacrifice. It means smarter, more creative celebration. See them parade on Sunday 24 May 2026 from Market Hill to Wardown Park as we celebrate 50 GOLDEN years of Luton International Carnival!
The Golden Horses: Luton International Carnival’s commitment to spectacular, sustainable celebration.
VOICE Commemorative Supplement
LUTON AND BEYOND:
BeyondLC50 team, Jade Scott, Gabrielle Smith and Karis Beaumont
Pic caption: Performers take part in Luton International Carnival Performers take part in Luton
Beyond Luton Carnival: Preserving a legacy
Celebrating
50
years, this one is more than just a party. By Joel Campbell
LAST MONTH saw the launch of ‘Beyond Luton Carnival 50’ (BLC50), a heritage project which will be documenting the events history through photography, community memories and archive.
The brainchild of Jade Scott, Gabrielle Smith and Karis Beaumont, the launch event took place at Youthscape in Luton and was hosted by KamArts founder, Linett Kamala.
The evening represented a chance to hear directly from the team, discover what will be happening in the coming months, and learn how you can get involved.
The 50th anniversary of Luton Carnival, once the biggest one-day carnival in Europe and the event that opens the UK carnival season, marks an important cultural milestone.
It offers an opportunity to reframe the narrative around Luton and recognise the generations of Caribbean people whose creativity and labour built one of the country’s most significant cultural celebrations.
Talking with the Voice Newspaper, Scott, a Lutonian writer and producer, who specialises in exploring the textures of contemporary Black life through story, explained how the project shifts the power dynamic for the area by ensuring it’s spoken ‘with’, rather than ‘about’.
“Luton is often depicted in ways that are unrecognisable to the people who live here”” Scott said.
She added: “That’s why, as a Lutonian, it felt really important to widen the cultural conversation and celebrate the communities that have
nurtured and sustained us.
“This is a community project that we’re blessed to be building together. Celebrating the everyday beauty of local Black life is central to this. By inviting the public to share their photo memories and stories, we hope to capture the culture through the eyes of those who know it best.
“Whether memories of a carnival parade, soundsystem, or everyday moments in a barbershop, community centre, or church hall, every contribution helps to make the textures of our lives visible in a way that might not have otherwise.”
BLC50 has been developed in partnership with Bedfordshire-based photographer Beaumont of Bumpkin Files, an archive and journal focused on the visibility of Black British identity beyond a monolithic lens.
Beaumont’s work centres Black British life beyond London. Speaking on why she felt it was important to document spaces like Luton, she said: “Black British history beyond London is so culturally rich, yet we don’t hear enough about it mainstream.
“When I think of Bristol, my mind goes straight to their resilience, the Bristol Bus Boycotts, which resulted in Equality Act laws being put in place.
“When I think of Luton, I associate it with being a cultural hub. So many people’s talents and passions were nurtured there. Sound systems thrived and went on to do further amazing things globally.
“The documentation of Luton is essential in filling the puzzle of the
Black British story. The community has contributed so much, but aren’t credited enough.
“There’s something transformative in knowing where you’ve come from, and acknowledging the community histories around you.”
A town often reduced to negative headlines and political shorthand, Luton has long held a deeper story.
Rooted in migration, creativity, and cultural pride, its Afro-Caribbean community has shaped not only the identity of the town but also contributed significantly to Britain’s cultural landscape.
With the BLC50 project bringing together different disciplines, Smith, a visual storyteller and cultural producer, whose work spans creative editorial strategy, art direction and cultural programming across the
media and creative industries, outlined what true collaboration looks like for her when working across storytelling, photography, and cultural production.
“What makes this project feel like a true collaboration is that all of us come from different but connected disciplines.”
Smith added: “Jade and I both have backgrounds in journalism, and Karis brings her experience as a visual storyteller and photographer. Our skills are different, but we share a commitment to amplifying Black stories with care and intention.
“Our combined experience across news and media has shown us how powerful storytelling can be.
“This project gives us the chance to bring those perspectives together and shape something that reflects our values.
“For me, true collaboration is about blending our individual strengths into a shared vision. Working together has helped us clarify the narrative we want to tell and how to present it in a way that feels thoughtful and true to the communities we are drawing from.”
As part of this work, the public is invited to contribute their memories of attending Luton Carnival through scanning socials and open studio photography days.
These sessions will document the people behind Carnival across the decades, creating a collective record that reflects the richness and complexity of Britain’s Caribbean heritage.
Drawing on photography and per-
sonal collections, the initiative will culminate in a public exhibition and contribute to a growing archive that preserves these stories for future generations.
“We see this as continuing a tradition,” the team said in response to how they see their work honouring the labour and creativity of the Caribbean community without reducing it to nostalgia.
They added: “We’re building on the oral traditions that have carried our culture across generations, weaving in photography and archival footage to document the past, and hold the present that is shaping who and what we are becoming.
“By speaking to people across the generations, we hope that this work will not just be an act of recovery but of imagination as well.
“Actively talking and observing the community. It’s important to stay curious and uplift the people who are exercising creativity now.
“It’s a disservice to wait for a Lutonian to have a commercial breakthrough, then boast about it after — it’s insincere.
“Pouring into the people carrying out the labour and creativity whilst they’re on their journey is not only the most important thing, but the most nurturing thing.
“The community needs resources, access and encouragement from their hometown. Seeking elsewhere shouldn’t have to be a primary option to receive those things.”
Follow: @beyondlutoncarnival50 on Instagram
ward, makes
times worse. I am pleading for that person to come forward.”
HELP
She added: “Why should my son’s murderers be walking the streets free? They have taken my son’s life. I’m asking people to look into their hearts and come forward with vital information. What if it was a mem-
STABBED: Jamie Simpson
and I find peace. We cannot rest until his murderers have been caught and brought to justice.”
Since the murder, police have released CCTV
black youths with their faces partly hidden by hooded tops. The case has also featured on BBC’s Crime Watch and Matalan has since offered a £40,000 reward for information leading to his killers’ capture.
Although six people were arrested and questioned, so far his killer remains free.
This has left his mum reeling: “At this moment, I cannot
The
VOICE Commemorative Supplement
PLEA: Mum Lorna Simpson and her daughters
music world and provides forum for leading and DJs to mingle with each and fans.
Festival founder, Anthony Brightly, said: “It is important that we pay homage to neers of the DJ industry Jazzie B has certainly magnificent contribution art and business of DJing enhanced the recognition DJ as a musician and contributor.”
Police reach out to crooks to help solve Jessie James’ murder
POLICE OFFICERSare offering jailed gangsters less time in prison if they help to solve the murder of schoolboy Jessie James.
Jessie, who had no links to any gang, was shot dead in Broadfield Park in Manchester in 2006.
Greater Manchester police have been visiting prisons across Britain, telling jailed gunmen that co-operation in the case could lead to a
MURDERED: Jessie James
review of their cases and a possible reduction in jail time.
This is apparently made possible by sections 71 to 74 of
the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005, which has a provision for offenders who help with investigations and prosecutions.
Some criminals could get up to ten years taken off their time in this American style initiative, a news report said.
Articles from the Voice archives April 2002
Two men named during an inquest in Jessie’s murder last year have been since been released because they had alibis.
CARNIVAL COMES TO LUTON TOWN
LUTON ISset come alive when carnival hits the town’s streets next week.
On Bank Holiday Monday, May 26, more than 50 different groups, clubs, schools, societies and communities will be taking part in the annual carnival.
Over 1900 participants will put on an eye catching, breath taking procession, demonstrating a diverse mix of arts, music and culture. With masquerade groups, sound trucks, steel bands, DJs, and stilt walkers, this say organ-
isers, ‘will be one of the best parades the town has ever seen’.
This is the 20th anniversary of the leaders of carnival, Rampage Carnival Club, led by Colin Spalding, renowned right across the UK for their flair in costume and sound build quality. Unlike many other clubs, which perform at just one or two events, Rampage parades all over the UK attending up to 15 different carnivals each year.
The parade starts from Wardown Park at 1.30pm on to
New Bedford Road - Hucklesby Way - Old Bedford RoadGuildford Street - Bridge StreetManchester Street – Town HallUpper George Street - Alma Street - New Bedford Road –returning to Wardown Park.
For the first time Luton airport will be participating in this year’s event; organisers have worked alongside the airport, coordinating costume making workshops to depict the airport’s theme of ‘destinations’.
Jacqui Harding, Parade
Coordinator who has organised the procession for the past six years said: “I’m really delighted with the great mix of groups taking part this year with bands from London, Nottingham, Norwich and as far as the Isle of Wight as well as many schools joining in the fun in the carnival parade. The costumes are really set to impress first time and regular carnival goers, and promises to be one of the best parades the town will ever see. I feel proud to be part of such a fantastic event.”
SHOW GIRL: Participant at past Luton carnival
“Although I’m writer I have a large female readers so great place to launch book.”
69 is billed as ‘erotica and tense’ Anton will be signing his novel for both show.
ANTONMarks
VOICE Commemorative Supplement
Luton Employability Day (LED) Bulletin
Welcome to the first edition of the Reach Society Luton Employability Day (LED) Bulletin.
I hope you are well and enjoying a positive start to the summer.
I’m delighted to introduce myself - Judith Jack as the new Project Manager for the Reach Society’s Luton Employability Day (LED), taking over from Dr Trevor Adams.
This bulletin is a shared space for our LED community to connect, collaborate and share ideas. L ED aims to supports young people to build confidence, understand their options and take positive steps toward their future personal and professional development. We want this Bulletin to be a two ‐ way conversation, your voices, experiences and insights are central to shaping what we build together.
The next Reach Society Luton Employability Day is fast approaching — please help us to spread the word and make the 2026 event our biggest yet (see info on the right to register now).
HOT TOPIC: WORK EXPERIENCE
Message of Congratulations – 50th Anniversary of Luton International Carnival
Warmest congratulations to everyone involved in marking the 50th anniversary of Luton International Carnival, a truly historic and inspiring milestone.
For five decades, the Carnival has been far more than an annual celebration. It has been a powerful expression of cultural pride, creativity and solidarity, rooted firmly in the Windrush legacy and the enduring contributions of Caribbean communities to the social, cultural and civic life of Luton and beyond. Through music, mas, costume and dance, the Carnival has told stories of migration, resilience and belonging, bringing communities together across generations.
Luton International Carnival has played a vital role in recognising the struggles, achievements and sacrifices of the Windrush generation and their descendants, while providing a platform for new generations to celebrate identity and creativity with confidence. This success is a testament to the dedication of the organisers, volunteers, artists and supporters who have sustained this remarkable event over fifty years.
As this golden anniversary is celebrated, I wish the Carnival continued success, growth and recognition for generations to come.
With heartfelt congratulations and best wishes, Professor Patrick Vernon OBE
Love it or hate it, we all have to do it at some point, so what are your thoughts, experiences, challenges, wins, when that one or two week period is finally over? Here are some questions to get your thoughts flowing.
Before it started:
How did you feel going into your work experience — excited, nervous, not bothered?
How did you choose where to go (or how was it chosen for you)?
What did you expect it to be like?
During the experience:
What surprised you most once you got started?
Was there anything you found challenging or uncomfortable?
Did you feel supported and included while you were there?
What skills did you realise you already had, or needed to work on?
Wins and moments that stood out:
Was there a moment you felt proud of yourself?
Did you learn something that school doesn’t really teach?
Did you meet anyone who inspired you or changed your thinking?
The tricky bits:
What was harder than you expected?
If something didn’t go well, what do you think would have helped?
What advice would you give to an employer hosting young people?
Looking back:
Love it or hate it, do you think work experience is worthwhile?
Did it change how you see work, careers, or your future?
Would you go back to that workplace if you could?
We can’t wait to hear about your experiences and thoughts at the LED.
UPDATES
Jobs If your employer or your business have a job(s), work experience placements or apprenticeships to offer young people, why not contact us to advertise here. It’s Free!
Next Issue we want to know and share more about what’s happening in our Luton Employability Day Community. We know there is “a heap” of activity going on, to support young people and parents/carers, e.g. events that are happening, interesting projects you are working on, good news stories or challenges that you have navigated.
We are open to exploring topics that will help us raise aspirations for all our young people and spotlight pathways to success. Let us know at: Judith.Jack@thebosspartner.com
Volunteers: If you are interested in learning more about Event Management and would like to support the next Luton Employability Day on 26 May 2026 as a volunteer. We would love to hear from you. You must be 16yrs or above. th For more info contact: Judith Jack, Project Manager for the Luton
Day 2026 - Judith.Jack@thebosspartner.com
A
major new exhibition celebrating Luton’s rich automotive heritage will open at Stockwood Discovery Centre this May. Luton Made: Vauxhall launches on Saturday 2 May and runs until Sunday 28 June.
Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the exhibition explores over 120 years of Vauxhall’s history in Luton and its lasting impact on the town. Thanks to National Lottery players, previously unseen photographs, film footage, objects, memorabilia and personal stories, will shine a light on the people, skills and community that powered the factory for generations.
Developed in collaboration with former Vauxhall employees, the exhibition offers an immersive look at life on the production line and beyond. Visitors will discover how the company shaped Luton’s workforce, identity and culture, while reflecting on its legacy following the plant’s closure in 2025.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
rare archival material and first-hand accounts from former workers five heritage vehicles on loan from the British Motor Museum, including the first and last cars built in Lutona programme of talks, workshops and community events a virtual reality experience launching in late May Opening weekend events include a family fun day on Saturday 2 May and a classic car show on Sunday 3 May, showcasing a range of Vauxhall and Bedford vehicles.
Councillor Hazel Simmons MBE, Leader of Luton Council, said:
“We are extremely proud to launch this exhibition as part of our celebrations of 150 years of Luton’s borough status. Following the plant’s closure in 2025, this is a poignant moment to recognise and celebrate the enormous contribution Vauxhall has made to our town.”
“This exhibition brings those stories to life in innovative ways, celebrating the people, skills and community at the heart of Luton’s identity. It offers something for everyone, from former employees and car enthusiasts to young people inspired by design and engineering.”
EVENT DETAILS:
Location: Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Rd, Luton LU1 4LX
Dates: Saturday 2 May to Sunday 28 June
Opening Hours: 11am–5pm, Wednesday–Sunday (including Mondays and Tuesdays during school holidays)
Admission: Free
LUTON CARNIVAL AT 50: Celebrating Diversity, Driving Growth, and Shaping the Town’s Future
1. On Legacy and Evolution: “With the Luton International Carnival celebrating its 50th year, how do you believe the carnival has shaped or reflected the evolution of Luton’s identity over the last half-century?”
Luton’s International Carnival, celebrating its 50th year despite austerity and the cost-ofliving crises, continues to take place annually. The representation of Luton’s diverse community has evolved and grown as the town has changed over time. Luton securing the UK Centre for Carnival Arts was a major achievement, linking it to carnivals across the UK and internationally, including Africa, the Caribbean, and Europe.
2. On Community Cohesion: “The carnival is known for bringing diverse groups together. How is the council leveraging this 50th-anniversary event to further strengthen social cohesion and foster a sense of belonging among residents from all backgrounds?”
The Council has enabled diverse groups to come together by supporting the Carnival’s return to its original route, from the town centre to Wardown Park, for its 50th anniversary enabling a greater participation from our diverse community, as it will be touching parts of the town that have changed significantly over the last 50 years, linking them together with music, art, and food.
Bedfordshire is one of five areas in the country that did not experience any disturbance following the Southport riots riots in 2024. This is due to the massive amount of work the council has carried out over the past 20 years with its statutory partners, faith and community leaders, and businesses.
3. On Youth Engagement: “With many local schools participating in this year’s parade, what long-term strategies are in place to ensure the carnival arts and this cultural tradition continue to inspire and engage the next generation of Lutonians?”
UKCCA and other cultural providers within Luton are part of the Luton Cultural Education Partnership which holds Artsmark and Arts Award. https://www.beds.ac.uk/ culture-and-community-engagement/culture-sector-engagement/local-cultural-education-partnerships/luton-cultural-education-partnership/
Dave Bradshaw, Headteacher of Hillborough Junior School, an Artsmark Platinum Award School accredited by the Arts Council England - co-chairs the Luton Creative Network. He connects and leads across the education sector in Luton, working with primary and secondary school leaders.
UKCCA has, for several years delivered carnival arts workshops, which I am sure will continue. We have the generations who are now in their 30s and 40s, stepping forward such as “Beyond Luton Carnival 50” by Jade Scott (ITV,
The Voice sat down with Councillor Jacqueline Burnett, of Luton to look at the significance of the 50th anniversary of the Luton International Carnival.”
Sony) and Gabrielle Smith (The Nubian, CNN, Adobe) who are Bedfordshire based creatives.
4. On Economic and Cultural Impact: “As we celebrate 150 years of borough status alongside this golden carnival anniversary, what do you see as the primary economic and cultural benefits of hosting such largescale events for our local businesses and the town’s regional profile?”
The primary economic and cultural benefits of hosting such large events for our local businesses and the town’s regional profile are that they bring increased numbers of people into the town, allowing them to partake in different cultural cuisine, experiences, and create lasting, positive memories of connection.
In 2024, the weekend we hosted Radio 1’s Big Weekend at Stockwood Park, along with the Luton International Carnival, contributed approximately £7 million to the local economy. This clearly demonstrates the impact on our
local businesses and the town’s regional profile.
As Bedfordshire is one of the fastest growing counties in the UK with Universal Theme Park opening in September 2031 to the north of the county, the East–West Rail project connecting Cambridge, Bedford, Bletchley/Milton Keynes and Oxford, with a station that will serve the Universal Theme park, and the expansion of London Luton Airport from 19 million to 32 million passengers by 2043. The £170 million refurbishment of the Luton Hoo Hotel by the Arora Group over the next 2–5 years (aimed at transforming the estate into a world-class venue and hosting the 2035 Ryder Cup) all point to significant growth.
The infrastructure and creative skills development is now being built to repeat the success of 2024 in the future.
5. On Sustainability: “It has been noted that the 2026 Carnival aims to be ‘greener than ever.’ How does the council plan to
balance the tradition of elaborate, largescale costume and float production with the town’s broader environmental and sustainability goals?”
The council plan to balance the tradition of elaborate, large-scale costume and float production with the town’s broader environmental and sustainability goals by working with UKCCA in its delivery of the event. Diesel vehicles have not been used for a few years now during the procession.
6. On Future-Proofing: “Looking ahead, how does the council intend to ensure that the pride and momentum generated by these 150th and 50th-anniversary celebrations are sustained to support the town’s developmentc and spirit in the years to come?”
The council intends to continue this momentum following our year of celebration in 2026. Many events as part of our Luton 150 programme, including Luton International Carnival will continue to be sponsored by our airport company Luton Rising, with commitments for the next three years. We are also continuing to trial more events this year in the town, including live music events, working with local cultural leaders such as UKCCA and other live music venues in the town.
7. On Public Participation: “The ‘Participate, not spectate’ approach has been highlighted for this year’s carnival. How can the council better support residents who may want to get more actively involved in the town’s cultural governance or community arts projects beyond the one-day event?”
The council can better support residents who may want to become more actively involved in the town’s cultural governance or community arts projects by engaging with large employers in the town, such as London Luton Airport, the airlines and other companies at the airport, the NHS, and small and medium-sized businesses through local business chambers and the Federation of Small Businesses, as there is a significant body of academic research demonstrating the benefits of being involved in a community to one’s overall health and wellbeing.
8. On Reflecting the Past: “In acknowledging 150 years of borough status, how are you ensuring that the voices and contributions of all communities that have helped build the Luton we know today are represented and celebrated in these official commemorations?”
I have always, and will continue to speak about the great diversity of Luton and serve as one of its ambassadors. It has more languages spoken than Hackney where I grew up; the two areas are also both connected by the River Lea. Luton has around 150 different languages and dialects spoken whereas Hackney has around 89.
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
This year’s 50th Anniversary celebration will feature:
• Over 800 parade participants representing diverse cultural communities
• Steel pan performances including UFO Steel Orchestra led by Lutonian and LIC26 Carnival Champion, actor Colin Salmon
• Traditional African, Caribbean, South Asian, Roma, and British folk performances
• Accessible performances for SEND audiences
Congratulations to Luton International Carnival on 50 Years
A half-century of Carnival is no small feat. As someone who has had the immense privilege of serving as both Artistic Director and CEO of Luton International Carnival, I have seen firsthand the incredible resilience and dedication required to keep the music playing for five decades. Like any great movement, Luton has had its ups and downs, but its endurance is a powerful testament to the unbreakable spirit of its people.
What has always set Luton apart for me is its extraordinary multicultural tapestry. It is a unique, vibrant space where diverse heritages don’t just walk side-by-side— they dance together in harmony. It is a brilliant, living example of how Carnival can bridge divides and turn a town’s streets into a massive stage for global unity and celebration.
While the sector faces mounting financial and legislative pressures, the milestone of a 50th anniversary reminds us exactly why we must fight for these spaces. Carnival is the soul of the community. I want to see Luton International Carnival not just survive, but truly succeed, flourish, and thrive for the next fifty years.
Congratulations to the organisers, the Mas players, the hard-working volunteers, and the people of Luton. You have kept the flame alive. Keep dancing!
Pax Nindi, Global Carnival Centre
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.
Gold for Ghana, Gold for Luton
This year’s carnival theme is “GOLD” – celebrating 50 years of cultural excellence, community pride, and joyful resistance.
The Ghana Society’s 2026 costume design will feature traditional Ghanaian gold kente cloth patterns alongside contemporary carnival aesthetics, symbolising the fusion of heritage and innovation that defines modern Luton.
The 40-person Ghana Society contingent will perform traditional African music and dance along the parade route, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ghana’s diverse regions. Their participation represents one of many international cultural groups now integral to Luton’s carnival, including the Luton Roma Community Association,
Luton Keralites Association (South India), Luton Malagalia Samajam (India), History Knights (Ancient British), and Alif New Beginnings (Islamic carnival traditions).
50 Years of Carnival, Endless Stories Luton International Carnival 2026 will take place on Sunday 24 May from 12:00pm to 6:00pm in Wardown Park. The parade begins at Market Hill in the Town Centre and proceeds along the route to Wardown Park. The event is free to attend and welcomes audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
• Ambition to one of Britain’s greenest carnivals – non-carbon-based vehicles
• Performance and Acoustic Zones featuring live music throughout the day
The Ghana Society will have a prominent location in the parade, performing African traditional music alongside a live brass band, with their distinctive gold-accented kente-inspired costumes marking both anniversaries in vibrant style. Join the Celebration Attend Luton International Carnival on Sunday 24 May 2026, 12:00pm-6:00pm, Luton Town Centre.
Pax Nindi
