Barking and Dagenham Carnival 2025: A Decade of Celebration, Culture, and Community

Mark Your Calendar!

The Barking and Dagenham Carnival 2025 will take place on Saturday, 12 July 2025, at Barking Town Square (IG11 7LU) from 1:00 PM – 6:30 PM. This special edition marks the 10th anniversary of a festival that has grown from a small children’s celebration into a vibrant, intergenerational event, welcoming people of all ages and abilities.

This Year’s Theme: “Together We Grow – A Greener Future”

More than just a celebration, this year’s carnival is a movement for sustainability and unity. Inspired by the Barking and Dagenham Borough Manifesto: “One Borough, One Community. No-one left behind,” the theme highlights how music, movement, and creativity can strengthen connections between people, communities, and the environment.

What’s in Store?

Attendees can expect a dynamic lineup of performances, hands-on workshops, and immersive experiences, including:

• International carnival artists delivering thrilling performances
• Street dancers and local school groups showcasing energy and passion
• Creative workshops at The Carnival Village, featuring costume-making, Steel Pan, Tamboo Bamboo, and African drumming sessions
• Family-friendly activities, including face painting, local business stalls, and interactive experiences for all ages

10 Years of Impact

Since its inception, the Barking and Dagenham Carnival has:

• Developed and promoted carnival arts, nurturing talents from hobbyists to professionals
• Encouraged intergenerational engagement, connecting seniors, young people, and adults with disabilities through hands-on workshops
• Created career development opportunities, equipping volunteers and performers with essential skills in leadership, teamwork, and event management
• Showcased the cultural significance of carnival arts, bringing together local and international talent to open new career pathways
• Demonstrated the power of carnival arts in driving social change, promoting mental and physical well-being, and supporting education, curriculum development, and training

Community Voices

Participants reflect on the impact of the festival:

Seyi Afolabi, Volunteer: “At its core, the Barking and Dagenham Carnival fosters unity and understanding. It’s a space where everyone belongs.”
Vanesha Jordan, Volunteer: “This event is a true celebration of culture and diversity. It brings people together in the best way possible.”
Cleon Lord, Volunteer: “Carnival is magical—it unites people through music, food, and colourful costumes.”
Tia Robertson, UKON’s Young Apprentice: “Carnival is a world of creativity and joy. It’s about community and self-expression.”
James Hunt, Volunteer: “This event showcases the borough’s diversity and inclusivity. It’s more than a festival; it’s a statement of unity.”

Join the Celebration!

Be part of the 10th anniversary of the Barking and Dagenham Carnival and experience a day filled with culture, creativity, and community spirit!

About UKON Careers

UKON Careers is dedicated to empowering communities and fostering social cohesion through inclusive initiatives. By promoting carnival arts, UKON Careers supports career development, volunteering, and employability skills, proving that creativity can inspire education and drive social impact.

Get Involved!

We are looking for volunteers to help make this year’s carnival a success. If you’d like to participate, contact us at info@ukoncareers.com.

For event updates, visit https://ukoncareers.com/ or follow us on social media.

Instagram: @UKONCareers
Facebook: @UKON Careers
X: @UKONcareers
LinkedIn: @UKONCareers

 

Picture/Image Credits – Trinis In London