Cowley Road Carnival 2024 is back!

After a five-year break, the Cowley Road Carnival made a spectacular comeback this past weekend, captivating thousands of locals and visitors alike in East Oxford. The day was a vibrant celebration of culture, entertainment, and community spirit, featuring dazzling performances, lively parades, and diverse activities that highlighted the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

On Sunday, 1st September, East Oxford was abuzz with the rhythm of drummers, the flair of dancers, and the excitement of roller-skaters, as large crowds gathered to enjoy the festivities under the warm sun. This year’s Carnival was brought to life by the hard work and dedication of the Cowley Road Works Carnival team, spearheaded by its Artistic Director, in collaboration with key partners such as Oxford City Council and Global Carnivalz. The combined efforts ensured a fun, safe, and inclusive experience for everyone involved.

Cowley Road Works Chairperson Roy McEwen commneted: “We greatly appreciate the support from the Arts Council, Oxford Brookes, BMW Mini, and Global Carnivalz. However, we especially want to extend our deepest thanks to Oxford City Council for their unwavering support, which was key to the successful planning and smooth execution of the event.”

Oxford City Council played a crucial role in the success of the event, offering substantial support in the form of funding, event logistics, organisation, and promotion. This assistance underscores the Council’s commitment to enhancing community engagement and supporting local cultural projects. Other important partners included Thames Valley Police, Oxford Direct Services (ODS), and various businesses along Cowley Road.

Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture, and an Inclusive Economy, expressed: “We are overjoyed to have supported this year’s Cowley Road Carnival and thrilled to see it return! The energy and joy this event brings to the East Oxford community are truly inspiring. We’re proud to back events like this that unite communities and celebrate the incredible diversity of our city.” ( photo credit Ian Hanham & Reuben Worledge )

 

Our Nature Our Future

September 1st 2024

The Cowley Road Carnival team are thrilled to announce Carnival is back on the road so get ready to party on Sunday 1st September 2024.

The recently appointed Carnival Chair, Roy McEwen stated that “The Cowley Road Carnival is one of the most anticipated events that puts the people of Oxfordshire front and centre. Carnival provides a platform for artistic expression and a spectacular parade, embodying the true essence of masquerade. Our stakeholders are keen to see the sustainable success of the carnival on the Cowley Road. I am encouraged that 2024 provides an opportunity to return Cowley Road Carnival to the summer calendar and its contribution to the economic vitality of the Cowley Road community.”

This uniquely colourful and vibrant community event will be back on the streets with plans that include the iconic Cowley Road procession, Eco Floats, Street Parties and House Floats introduced in 2021 (first of their kind). There will also be workshops for individuals and community groups to make their own Carnival costumes and the opportunity to take part in the procession.

Zaheer Qureshi who has been a Board member for many years commented: “Since its inception, working with its stakeholders, this Carnival has always been a key catalyst for building bridges between community, schools, youth services, cultural and disability groups.”  Board member Sarah Conor added “To locals, the 3-year absence left a social, celebratory and creative hole in Oxford which can’t wait to fill next year.”

( James Nimmo photo credit)

Get Involved

The management is encouraging those interested to get involved in various ways such as join the procession, perform, run a stall, volunteer, assist in social media, join the Board or become a sponsor.

For volunteer opportunities for 2025 please email volunteers@cowleyroadworks.org