The Cowley Road Carnival has announced the return of carnival to the city on Sunday, 01 September 2024, with the theme for the year’s event being ‘Our Nature Our Future’.
The recently appointed Carnival Chair, Roy McEwen, stated: “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 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.
Read more: Cowley Road Carnival 2022 cancelled amidst uncertain future
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.”
The organisers are encouraging those interested to get involved in various ways, such as joining the procession, performing, running a stall, volunteering, assisting in social media, joining the Board or becoming a sponsor.
