Woodingdean Carnival was 'bigger and better than ever'

Woodingdean Carnival took place on Saturday, July 5 across two fields at Rudyard Kipling Primary School.

The carnival field was filled with more than 60 stalls providing activities like Punch and Judy and face painting run by local businesses, charities and organisations.

Many of the activities were free of charge thanks to donations from local businesses which were “put to good use keeping costs low and spirits high”.

More than 25 local business donated to bring the event to life creating the “biggest Woodingdean Carnival ever”, according to organisers.

The carnival bar was also a “hit”, even after gusts of winds brought the bar tent down leaving the bar team serving al fresco.

The day began with the arrival of the carnival parade with community and dance groups who marched and danced their way from Central Park to the carnival fields

The winner of the parade was Oak Cottage Nursery with their “cheerful and very yellow” minions entry.

The parade arrived at the field at 11am to be welcomed by the deputy mayor of Brighton and Hove City Council, councillor Ty Galvin, who officially opened the carnival.

Throughout the day, local acts showcased their skills in a performance arena in the centre of the carnival.

Clare Johnson, Woodingdean Carnival Committee, said:  “Woodingdean Carnival is run by volunteers for the community, and it is always a proud moment to see the field fill up on Carnival morning after many months of preparation.”

Rudyard Kipling Primary School headteacher Euan Hanington said: “We were honoured to host this year's Woodingdean Carnival for only the second time in its 58-year history.

“One of the most wonderful aspects of carnival is how truly inclusive it is: the disability dance groups were definite highlights for me as was the amazing food on offer.

“The Woodingdean community is a special one and we are always so proud to be part of it: hats off to the Carnival committee who are all volunteers and roll on 2026.”