Manchester’s Official Caribbean Carnival is going online for first time ever

For the first time in almost 50 years, the Official Manchester Caribbean Carnival will this year be going online for the very first time.

The event in the park has been cancelled, but the yearly Carnival celebration will be replicated online this weekend with a mix of live and pre-recorded displays of culture, heritage and performance.

There’ll be performances from Reggae artist I-Octane, dance hall king Stylo G, Soca queen Patrice Roberts, soul sensation Omar and more.

The weekend will also include a youth stage, DJ performances, vibrant dance and steel band displays, food demonstrations, community talks and, most importantly, the island sounds of Soca, Reggae, Calypso and more.

“As a new team we are excited to be delivering what will be an amazing and vibrant Manchester Caribbean Carnival with new invigorated flair,” says Manchester Carnival Together Consortium’s Julia Burke.

“We treasure the carnival and its heritage and it was unthinkable that we would not have a carnival this year. 

“We want people to enjoy the carnival safely and watch on online as the entertainment we have in store will be a true celebration of the essence of carnival, taking the online experience of Manchester carnival to the next level.”

“It is wonderful to see so many different ways people can get involved in this year’s carnival, all while staying safe at home,” says Councillor Lutfhur Rahman.

“That is why I am confident that this year’s online carnival will not leave anyone wanting or feeling too disappointed. The amount of time and effort organisers have put into it guarantees that it will be a brilliant day for all.

“It would have been wonderful to see the streets lined with all the flair and carnival celebration the annual event brings. Unfortunately we have known for a while in advance that this would not be possible.

“It is vitally important that everyone plays their part in ensuring that the entire community remains safe against the ongoing threat of Covid-19, this can only be ensured by not attending any mass gatherings.

“If you know of any planned gatherings or see any anti-social activity you can report it confidentiality.”

Join the vibe online at themanchestercarnival.com between 12pm – 8pm on 8th and 9th August for two channels of free livestreamed events and performances.