Carnival Parade

01 Jou'vert

The early, messy, morning parade that kickstarts the weekend's Carnival.

02 King & Queen

A showcase of extravagant traditional Carnival costumes and Caribbean artistry.

03 Main parade

An explosion of colour and sound that gets the party started through the streets of Hulme and Moss Side.

Now in its 54th year, Manchester Carnival returns to Alexandra Park as the largest celebration of Caribbean Carnival culture in the North of England.

Join thousands of visitors for an unforgettable weekend of spectacular masquerade, live entertainment, steel pan, sound systems, delicious food, community stalls, funfair attractions and family entertainment as we celebrate the vibrant traditions, creativity and spirit of Caribbean Carnival.

The carnival kicks off with Family Day, filled with fun activities for all ages. Early birds can indulge in the vibrant and exhilarating J’ouvert at 7 am, setting the tone for a day filled with energy and excitement. The main parade, featuring captivating dance troupes, takes place from midday, making its way through the streets before returning to the park at 2pm to showcase the creative costumes made in community workshops prior to the event. The parade is an array of music, colour, and dance and all are welcome to join the procession that begins its eclectic journey from the park.

We’ll ensure a blaze of colour is waiting for you and ready to dance at the carnival’s cultural home of Alexandra Park. Registration for this 2026 is now closed but will open early in 2027. Contact us for more information.

Take part in the Carnival

Manchester Carnival  |  8th & 9th August 2026

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Jou'vert & grand Parade - Sat 8th Aug 2027

The celebrations begin with the vibrant J'Ouvert Morning Procession, bringing the streets of Moss Side alive with music, rhythm and Caribbean tradition before leading into the spectacular Manchester Carnival Parade.

Experience the energy, creativity and colour of our incredible mas bands, including We R 1, Claremont Exclusive, United Movement, Yin Yang, Skate with Joy, Lipa & Lemon Twist, Level Up, Jet Black, Spectrum Association, Church of God, JayOne Mas & Extreme Invasion, and Labnation, United Kreyol & 441 Bermuda, alongside live performances from Resonance Steel Orchestra and Panatonic Steel Band.

From breathtaking costumes and pulsating music to the unmistakable rhythm of steel pan, the Manchester Carnival Parade is the highlight of the weekend and a celebration of Caribbean culture, creativity and community.

The J’vouert parade kickstarts the weekend with the most creative of messes!!!! From 7am the streets are filled with revellers for the ‘Morning Jam” – think powder, water, colour, flags and vybz!! Time to get messy!!!!

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View Route

J'Ouvert Information

Date: Saturday 8 August

Assembly: 6.30
Procession Starts: 7.00

Parade

Date: Saturday 8 August

Assemble: 11.30
Processions: 12:00

King & Queen

The King and Queen Show is a showcase of intricate costumes. Each "King" and "Queen" performs a routine with the most majestic displays becoming the official ambassadors for festivities.

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Main Parade

The Main Parade is an explosion of colour, rhythm, and pride featuring masquerade troupes, floats, and sound systems that wind their way through Moss Side into Alexandra Park for the main event.

Get involved • Celebrate •