Being the largest and longest-running cultural event in Preston, running for almost 50 years, the carnival attracts thousands of visitors to Preston each year as the community celebrates freedom, the end of slavery and the affirmation of survival. Bringing the city to life with an array of flamboyance and creativity portrayed through the amazing colourful, vibrant and dynamic costumes, live music and dancing this wonderfully diverse event is embraced by all cultures. As such, Preston Caribbean Carnival is a platform for anyone, irrespective of age or ethnicity, who wishes to be included as the communities join together and demonstrate the positivity associated with carnival.
Founded in 1974 by local Prestonians with origins in St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica and other Caribbean islands, Preston Carnival gained momentum as an annual event from participants in the 1972 Preston Guild Community procession with a desire to create an annual cultural celebration featuring both a processional and park based cultural event for both Preston residents and for visitors to the city
The annual event, hosted in May, begins with the crowning of the Carnival King and Queen. A theme is chosen each year and after months of preparation and costume design, participants showcase their amazing costumes at the crowning competition, which takes place at Preston Flag Market. Intent on impressing the crowds and judges, the potential Kings and Queens display their costumes through the expression of music and dance, resulting in the most impressive contestants winning the King and Queens crowns for a year, with a similar option for younger contestants as they battle for the Prince and Princess crowns.
As Carnival day arrives, the focus is on the procession. Led by the Carnival King and Queen, the procession, consisting of various troupes, trucks and steel bands makes its way through Preston city centre, attracting thousands of spectators as the procession weaves through the streets. As the procession draws to a close participants make their way to Moor Park, accompanied by spectators who have followed the procession, as the celebrations continue into the evening where mouth-watering authentic food, drinks, music and family entertainment awaits