Preston is preparing to explode with colour, rhythm and celebration as the Preston Caribbean Carnival returns for its 51st anniversary over the late May Bank Holiday weekend. With thousands of people expected to join the festivities, this year’s carnival promises to be bigger, brighter and more vibrant than ever before — a true celebration of Caribbean culture, community and creativity.
🎠King & Queen Set the Tone
The excitement kicked off on Saturday 17 May, as the Flag Market hosted the hotly anticipated King & Queen competition, where the leaders of this year’s parade were crowned. Judging the spectacular costumes and choreography was Rhonda Martin, an internationally acclaimed Carnival judge who has lent her expertise to the likes of Trinidad & Tobago and Notting Hill Carnivals.
Crowds were treated to a vibrant showcase of dazzling costumes, local dance troupes and international DJs spinning feel-good Carnival beats — a strong indication of the high-energy celebrations still to come.
🎶 One Park Living Legends — Music for a Cause
On Saturday 24 May, the Carnival weekend continues with the One Park Living Legends Festival — a ticketed fundraising event at Moor Park from 2pm to 8pm. The line-up reads like a who’s who of reggae and Lovers Rock, featuring:
- Janet Kay & Carroll Thompson – The Queens of Lovers Rock
- Winston Reedy, Winsome, J Ray and Adele
- Sound systems from Love Unlimited & Friends (London) and Phoenix Sound & Johnny Rockers (Preston)
The festival combines live music, Caribbean vibes and community fundraising in a setting ideal for families and music fans alike. Tickets are available via Ticket Tailor — search One Park Living Legends Festival.
🎉 Carnival Parade – Sunday’s Main Event
The heart of the Carnival weekend is the Sunday parade on 25 May, setting off at 1pm from Moor Park Avenue. The route snakes through Deepdale Road, Meadow Street, St Paul’s Road, Sedgewick Street, North Road, Garstang Road and back to Moor Park.
Expect a cultural explosion of live music, dancers, drummers and eye-catching costumes as the parade pays tribute to more than 50 years of Caribbean tradition. The streets will be alive with sound and colour — a visual spectacle for all ages to enjoy.
🌞 Family Fun at Moor Park
Following the parade, the celebrations continue at the Carnival Day Family Fun Park in Moor Park until 7.30pm. This family-friendly event features:
- Live stage performances showcasing Caribbean music
- Children’s rides and creative zones
- A variety of Caribbean and international food stalls
- Bars and sound system areas for dancing the evening away
🗣️ A Message from the Council
Councillor Anna Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council, said:
“The Preston Caribbean Carnival is a treasured part of our city’s cultural calendar, bringing together communities to celebrate diversity, creativity and heritage. As we mark the 51st anniversary, we look forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to enjoy this joyful, family-friendly event. It’s a wonderful way to showcase the vibrant spirit of Preston and the Caribbean community’s incredible contribution to our city’s identity.”
đź“Ť What You Need to Know
- Dates: 24–25 May 2025 (Late May Bank Holiday)
- Location: Moor Park and Preston city streets
- Tickets: Free for the Sunday parade and Fun Park. Saturday’s One Park Living Legends event is ticketed.
- Travel Tips: Consider using public transport or park-and-ride schemes, as road closures will be in effect along the parade route.
🎊 Don’t Miss the North West’s Most Colourful Celebration
From its humble beginnings to its current status as one of the UK’s longest-running Caribbean Carnivals, the Preston Caribbean Carnival continues to be a vital cultural cornerstone in Lancashire. It’s more than a party — it’s a powerful expression of heritage, identity and unity.
So dust off your dancing shoes, grab your flags, and bring the whole family to enjoy the most colourful event Preston will see this year.
🔗 For more information on events in Preston, visit: Visit Preston – What’s On