Nottingham Carnival, the city’s largest celebration of Caribbean culture, returns to Victoria Embankment with a spectacular free parade, international headline artists, and a full day of music, culture and community togetherness.
The highlight of the day is the FREE Carnival Parade, the largest in the East Midlands, beginning at 2:00pm, where audiences can experience two hours of breathtaking handmade costumes, vibrant choreography from over 500 performers from Nottingham and other parts of the UK. Spectators can watch from anywhere along the parade route, making this one of the Midlands’ most accessible cultural events.
Alongside the parade, the Carnival Village will come alive with world-class entertainment, featuring reggae icon Duane Stephenson & Band and dancehall legend Tony Matterhorn, alongside outstanding local and national artists, Caribbean sound systems, authentic street food, artisan traders and family-friendly activities such as the fun fair and the free Kids Zone. Children under 12 receive free entry to the Carnival Village.
A Celebration with Deep Roots
First established in 1958 by Windrush immigrants from St Kitts, Nottingham Carnival was created as a joyful expression of Caribbean culture shared with all communities. After periods of interruption throughout the late twentieth century, overwhelming public support led to its revival in 1999. Led by Tuntum Housing Association in partnership with community carnival enthusiasts, the Carnival continues to celebrate diversity, heritage and unity, returning every year except during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nottingham Carnival is made possible through community support, ticket sales and the dedication of a passionate volunteer team who have worked tirelessly to deliver the event for more than 25 years. The organisers are proud to be supported by Arts Council England, Nottingham City Council, Tuntum Housing Association and Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden.
As costs continue to rise, every ticket purchased helps ensure this iconic celebration can thrive for future generations.
Parade Route
The parade begins on Victoria Embankment, travelling along Wilford Grove, Felton Road and Green Street, before returning via Bunbury Street and back into the Carnival Village on the Embankment.
Event Information
- Date: Sunday 16 August 2026
- Time: 1:00–8:00pm
- Location: Victoria Embankment, Nottingham NG2 2JY
- Parade: Free to watch from 2:00pm
- Carnival Village: Adult tickets from £8.80 | Children enter free
Tickets & Information
- Tickets: https://www.gigantic.com/nottingham-carnival-tickets
- Website: https://nottinghamcarnival.co.uk/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NottinghamCarnival
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notts_carnival/
Posted on 12 August 2026
