A carnival which attracts tens of thousands of revellers to Hackney is making a comeback this year after a five-year hiatus.
Hackney Council is inviting local people to take part in the parade on Sunday September 22nd and is appealing for volunteers to help on the day. They also have performance spots for musicians and DJs. The deadline to apply is April 7th.
Artistic director Pax Nindim who will once again be leading the event, said: “Hackney Carnival holds a special place in my heart, and I’m delighted to be at the helm once more. The overwhelming community support is a testament to the Carnival’s significance in our lives.
“2024 promises to be an explosion of colour, culture, and togetherness. Hackney Carnival is for everyone, transcending boundaries of colour, race, and creed, and I’m honoured to be leading the way working with our amazing Carnival groups.”
Spaces in the parade will be limited, with priority given to groups who have taken part in previous years.
The last Hackney Carnival took place in 2019 and was attended by an estimated 100,000 people.
For two years, during the pandemic, the carnival was held virtually and, though the event was due to take place in 2022, it was cancelled at the last minute following the death of the Queen. That decision caused considerable upset, with many saying they’d gone to considerable expense and effort preparing.
In 2023 the Council cancelled the event due to budget pressures and announced they would be running the event every two years instead of annually.
Mayor of Hackney Caroline Woodley, said: “The return of Carnival is a chance for residents to come together to celebrate and showcase the creativity and talent that makes our diverse borough so special.”
The daytime event will showcase eye-catching floats and vibrant colourful costumes. Throughout the summer there will be opportunities for young people and their families to get involved in workshops across the borough.
The parade will start at Mentmore Terrace and head up Mare Street then towards south Dalston before finishing at London Fields. Ridley Road has been excluded from the route amidst safety concerns.
To get involved or for more information, visit www.instagram.com/hackney_carnival
