King and queen show
Manchester Carnival | 8th & 9th August 2026
THE SHOW
The King & Queen Show is one of the standout moments of Manchester Caribbean Carnival, a chance to see the creativity, culture and craftsmanship behind carnival up close.
Before the streets fill for the parade, the stage belongs to the Kings and Queens.
Celebration
A celebration of culture and community
The King & Queen Show has deep roots in Caribbean carnival traditions, where bands present their most elaborate costumes in competition. It’s a long-standing part of carnival culture, celebrating freedom, expression, and identity.
In Manchester, the show has become a space where:
- Local talent is celebrated
- Communities come together to support one another
- The spirit of carnival is shared across generations
It’s not just about who takes the crown — it’s about representation, pride, and participation.
The competition
Throughout the show, performers take to the stage to present their costumes and performances. Judges assess creativity, design, and presentation before awarding titles such as King and Queen.
When the winners are announced, it’s a moment of celebration — recognising the time, effort and passion that goes into every detail.
Come and join us
The King & Queen Show offers a different side of carnival.
While the parade brings the streets to life, this is where you can:
- See the detail and craftsmanship up close
- Experience live performances in a focused setting
- Be part of a lively, supportive audience
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to carnival, it’s an experience that captures the heart of what Manchester Caribbean Carnival is all about.
GET INVOLVED
