Carnival is much more than a party

When we celebrate carnival, we celebrate history, resilience and wellbeing .Across the world, each carnival carries its own story:

Barking & Dagenham Carnival began as a small children’s community celebration – a way of bringing families together and bridging the gap between cultures right here in our borough.

Today, carnival remains as a platform for connection, creativity & community strength. It’s about uplifting one another, showcasing our diverse and unique cultures, and making sure that no one is left behind. 

It’s important to never forget the roots & foundation of these celebrations: justice, joy, inclusion & love. Carnival is … community. culture. creativity. connection.

Diverse moments from Barking & Dagenham Carnival 2025 beautifully captured by @trinisinlondon