St Paul’s Carnival is back this summer but organisers have announced a scaled-down programme.
They say the decision has been taken because of “ongoing challenges in the events sector.”
Executive director LaToyah McAllister-Jones has assured fans that the biennial July event will still bring “epic Carnival energy” to the streets of St Paul’s.
She said: “Like many cultural organisations, we’re facing financial pressures, and we have to make responsible choices to ensure we’re here for the long haul. That means doing things a little differently this year, but we’re still committed to celebrating and and sharing our culture with you. We are really excited about our plans for 2025, which will bring Carnival arts and culture to the city and continue to celebrate the roots of Caribbean heritage.”
This year’s programme includes the schools programme, the elders’ brunch and music food and performance events.
Dr Michele Curtis, the new chair of St Paul’s Carnival, said: “We are focused on ensuring we can continue to protect the legacy of Caribbean culture and the St Paul’s Carnival. Sustainability is our focus, which means careful financial planning and developing ways to generate income throughout the year.
“What’s equally important is that our communities, both locally and across the city, understand the huge social and economic impact of Carnival. If we want to protect its legacy, everyone has a role to play – whether through volunteering, donating, or sponsorship.”
“We know this isn’t the full-scale Carnival many of us were looking forward to, but we want to assure you that we’re doing everything we can to keep the spirit of Carnival alive.
Since its beginnings in 1968, St Paul’s Carnival has grown into an internationally recognised cultural asset, attracting over 120,000 people at its peak and contributing over £9.2 million to the regional economy. We are determined to see it continue for generations to come.”
The last full Carnival was in 2023. Organisers say it cost £450,000 to stage, with 50 per cent coming from funding sources and the rest from fundraising. Last year saw the Back A Yard programme that happens in the intervening years.
Donations are welcome at https://www.stpaulscarnival.net/donate