Janine
In a vibrant display of unity and culture, thousands of individuals took to the streets of Leeds, igniting the heart of the city with exuberant dance and music over the bank holiday. This remarkable spectacle marked the grandeur of the Leeds West Indian Carnival, a time-honoured tradition that stands as Europe’s longest-standing annual homage to Caribbean heritage.
Chapeltown and Harehills in Leeds buzzed with excitement as locals and visitors took part in this cherished Yorkshire event. With a captivating build-up, the carnival cast a spotlight on the rich tapestry of culture and the closely-knit community in the region.
Potternewton Park was transformed into a bustling marketplace of flavours and sounds. The air was fragrant with the enticing aromas of jerk chicken, plantain, dumplings, and rice as street stalls and barbecues vied for attention.
Daniel Tidmarsh, a co-founder of LDC Radio, offered his perspective from aboard a float in the company of West Yorkshire Fire Service. “This is one of the biggest and best events in the country. The atmosphere is electric,” Tidmarsh proclaimed, encapsulating the infectious energy that permeated the scene.
Beyond the revelries within the park and the lively parade, this year’s edition of Leeds Carnival introduced a novel addition: the Royalty Carnival Show. A regal spectacle featuring kings, queens, princes, princesses, and Soca monarchs unfolded at the esteemed Leeds Playhouse, adding a layer of majesty to the festivities.
Among the participants, a shining star emerged in the form of 10-year-old Danni-Bree, who was crowned the carnival princess. Following in the illustrious footsteps of her Carnival Queen mother, Danni-Bree’s victory was met with resounding pride and tradition in her family’s legacy.
Sabrina Collins, a former Carnival Princess of 1991 and subsequent Carnival Queen of 1996, now at the helm of Expressions UK Performing Arts, beamed with satisfaction. “I am so proud of her,” she said, adding: “It’s become a tradition in our family; she has done so well.”
Leeds West Indian Carnival traces its roots back to the indomitable spirit of Arthur France, who migrated from the Caribbean to Leeds in the 1950s. Leaving behind his homeland, kin, and a treasury of culture, music, and art, Arthur helped to kickstart the Leeds West Indian Carnival in 1967. The carnival not only brought a taste of Caribbean culture to the UK but also commemorated the emancipation of his ancestors from the shackles of slavery.
More than 26 carnival troupes processed through the streets of Chapeltown on the day, some with highly charged political messages, while others used costumes that were more symbolic in nature.
The carnival has grown every year and is now in its 56th year (with the exception of 2020 and 2021).
