Nottingham Carnival returns to Victoria Embankment on Sunday 17 August 2025.
Thousands of attendees will enjoy international headliners Etana, Stylo G and BBC 1Xtra’s Seani B in the Carnival Village. Dancing, performances, DJs, sound systems, food, drink, fairground rides and good vibes will take place from 1pm-8pm.
Spectators can also experience more than 400 spectacular costumes and fabulous choreography in the colourful Carnival Parade, which starts at 2pm and is free to watch at any point along the route. There will be almost two hours of magnificent hand-made costumes and dancing from East Midlands and nationwide troupes, plus international guests.
As before, the Parade route begins at Victoria Embankment, heads up Wilford Grove, Felton Road and Green Street before making its way back down to the Embankment via Bunbury Street, returning to the Carnival Village via Wilford Grove.
Within the Carnival Village, witness incredible performances and a special stage dedicated to the troupes – unlike any other UK carnival – plus live music from world-famous artists, local acts, sound systems, mouth-watering food, and family-friendly activities to keep every generation entertained.
Nottingham Carnival, originating in 1958, was a cultural event organised by immigrants from St Kitts, promoting their Caribbean identity through colourful costumes and traditional entertainment. Despite sporadic events between 1958 and the early 90s, the event was revived in the early 90s but was cancelled in 1998 due to health, safety, and financing concerns. The community’s outcry led to a large march in the city centre, establishing the modern Nottingham Carnival in 1999.
With funding and support from sponsors Emccan, Arts Council England, Nottingham City Council, UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Tuntum Housing Association, plus invaluable support from the community, Nottingham Carnival continues to make this local celebration possible.
Entry to the Village is free for under 10 year olds. Advance adult tickets are £6, and child tickets (aged 10-15) are £3. A special family discount is available for advance tickets. Booking fees apply.