Preston Caribbean Carnival Returns for its Spectacular 51st Year!

Preston is set to come alive with colour, music and culture this May as the Preston Caribbean Carnival marks its incredible 51st anniversary. Over the late May Bank Holiday weekend, thousands are expected to join the celebrations which promise to be bigger, brighter and even more vibrant than ever before.

The festivities began with the King & Queen competition to decide who will lead the parade this year. The King & Queen competition was held on Saturday, 17 May on Preston's Flag Market and featured pieces judged by Rhonda Martin. Rhonda has judged Carnival competitions all over the world including Trinidad & Tobago, and Notting Hill Carnivals. There was live entertainment with DJs from around the world, providing the tunes and good vibes as a backdrop for the show, which included a stunning costume display and performances from three local dance troupes.

The excitement continues with the One Park Living Legends on Saturday, 24 May, a ticket-only event held to raise funds for the Carnival. From 2pm to 8pm, Moor Park will host a packed programme of live music featuring renowned headline artists including: The Queens of Lovers Rock - Janet Kay & Carroll Thompson, plus Winston Reedy, Winsome, J Ray and Adele, alongside Sound Systems Love Unlimited & Friends from London and from Preston, Phoenix Sound and Johnny Rockers. For tickets visit Ticket Tailor - One Park Living Legends Festival - Moor Park Preston May 2025.

The highlight of the weekend is the much-loved Carnival Parade on Sunday, 25 May setting off at 1pm from Moor Park Avenue. The parade route will move through Deepdale Road, Meadow Street, St Paul's Road, Sedgewick Street, North Road, Garstang Road and back to Moor Park, celebrating the rich Caribbean heritage with live music, dance, drummers and dazzling costumes representing more than 50 years of Carnival traditions.

Following the parade, the Carnival Day Family Fun Park event will continue the festivities at Moor Park until 7.30pm, featuring live stage performances showcasing music from the Caribbean, children's rides and creatives, Caribbean and international food stalls, bars, and sound system areas.

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."

Come and celebrate the biggest and most colourful party Preston will see this year! Find out more about city events in Preston at Visit Preston - Preston City Centre events 2025.

Image credit: Preston Photographic Society