Date: Sunday 24 May 2026
Time: 12pm – 6pm
Venue: Wardown Park, Luton, LU2 7HL.
Luton International Carnival celebrates 50 years of colour and culture returning to Wardown Park with Luton Rising as headline sponsor..
Luton’s landmark cultural celebration is marking a major milestone this year as the Luton International Carnival celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Organised by the UK Centre for Carnival Arts (UKCCA) with support from Luton Borough Council, and proudly headline sponsored by Luton Rising, this year’s golden jubilee event promises to be the most inclusive and vibrant yet.
Taking place on Sunday 24 May 2026 from 12pm to 6pm, the UK’s largest one-day carnival will make a special return to its traditional home at Wardown Park, bringing together families, communities, and visitors from across the region for a spectacular celebration of music, dance, and creativity. The milestone event will honour five decades of culture, unity, and carnival spirit.
This year’s event will also see 13 local schools and one nursery take part in the main parade, highlighting the event’s role in inspiring young people and ensuring the carnival tradition continues for future generations.
Alongside its vibrant artistry, the 2026 Carnival is set to be greener than ever, with performers and float designers embracing more sustainable materials and eco-friendly practices. This year’s float will invite participants to showcase their creativity through the GOLD theme, celebrating bold, vibrant and imaginative designs inspired by gold.
This year’s Carnival event will also form part of a special year of celebrations, to mark 150 years of Luton Borough Status. Later this month, Luton Council will be launching the programme for the year, featuring over 150 events and activities to celebrate the town’s milestone, including some new events taking place in 2026.
