Colorful costumes adorned the streets as the Woodingdean Carnival parade kicked off in Woodingdean Central Park, winding its way to the primary school for a lively afternoon of festivities on Saturday.
Local schools, nurseries, and community groups, cheered on by the Woodingdean Neighbourhood Watch and police, paraded and danced along the route. The highlight came as they gathered at the school field just before 11am, welcomed by Brighton and Hove’s Mayor, Councillor Mohammed Asaduzzaman, who officially inaugurated Carnival 2024.
Rudyard Kipling Primary School clinched the carnival parade’s top spot with their vibrant mythical “merbird” entry. The school grounds buzzed with over 50 stalls offering fun activities run by local businesses, charities, and organizations.
The carnival bar proved popular, alongside attractions like a teacup carousel, traditional Punch and Judy shows, and face painting that delighted children throughout the day.
Alix Macfarlane, chair of Woodingdean Carnival, expressed gratitude: “Thank you to everyone who supported this community event in so many ways. The carnival is a labor of love by volunteers and seeing the field bustling with activity on carnival morning after months of preparation is always a proud moment.”
“All stallholders and activity providers handled the weather admirably; we experienced three seasons in a day before the sun finally emerged. The generous support from our local businesses was invaluable. It was a day enjoyed by all, and we are already planning for next year.”
Stalls offered a variety of treats from cakes to curry dishes, complemented by a community center café adjacent to the field.
Entertainment continued throughout the day in a central performance arena, showcasing local talents in dance, music, singing, and fitness demonstrations from groups such as the Brighton School of Singing.
Despite initial challenges with heavy rain and winds, which gave way to sunny skies later on, the carnival atmosphere remained vibrant. Firefighters from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Roedean Community Fire Station added to the festivities, engaging with visitors and offering tours of their fire engine.
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