Derby Caribbean Carnival Montage 2022 from the University of Derby.
The Derby Caribbean Carnival is a lively annual event that has been bringing the community together since 1975. Planned and organised by the Derby West Indian Community Association (DWICA) in collaboration with other local groups and partners, the carnival has grown from a small fundraising festival at Moorways Sports Centre to a major regional and national attraction.
In its early years, the carnival was a one-day event held on Saturdays. However, in 1998, the organisers adopted a two-day format, with the carnival procession taking place on Saturday and a variety of events, including a stage show featuring internationally acclaimed artists, a fun fair, beer tent, sound systems, arts and craft stalls, and food stalls offering both Caribbean and European cuisine, being held at Osmaston Park on Sunday. This successful format continued for many years.
Funding for the carnival has primarily been provided by DWICA, with significant additional support from Arts Council England and Derby City Council. Over the years, the carnival has also received sponsorship from various organisations, including Derbyshire Building Society, Rolls Royce, Western Union and Midland Mainline.
In 2016, due to cuts in local authority funding, the carnival reverted to a one-day event. The procession begins at the Market Place in the City Centre and travel through the streets of Derby before arriving at Osmaston Park, where a variety of entertainments, stalls take place.
The Derby Caribbean Carnival relies heavily on the dedication and hard work of volunteers. During the carnival period, DWICA can attract up to 150 volunteers who help with various aspects of the event, including carnival organisation, workshops, the Carnival Queen Show, marshalling, and publicity. Without this immense volunteer effort, the carnival would not be possible.
The Derby Caribbean Carnival is held annually on the 3rd Sunday of July.
For further information about the Derby Caribbean Carnival and to find out how you can get involved, please contact the Derby West Indian Community Association by telephone at 01332 371529 or use our contact form.
