Around 150,000 people are thought to have attended the 30th Luton International Carnival on Bank Holiday Monday with up to 1,800 people actually taking part on more than 60 floats.  | | If you want to get ahead, get a costume! |
Once again the centre of Luton came to a standstill for the biggest free one day celebration in Europe, although those in the procession were anything but still as they danced the full length of the route. The streets were awash with colour and music as many different groups, including clubs, schools, societies and communities got involved, bringing a diverse mix of arts, music and culture to the streets of the town. From masquerade groups and sound trucks to steel bands and stilt walkers - there was something in the parade to entertain everyone. Something more!The weather was glorious and held out all afternoon so that revelers could thoroughly enjoy the extravaganza with an impressive line-up of music and entertainment for the day. With three stages and six sound sites across the town, the selection of live musical entertainment taking place for free on just one day was quite astonishing. As well as a chance for first-rate international bands and local musicians to showcase their talent, there were some well-known faces lined up for stage performances in Wardown Park.  | | Fun on the streets |
This year, the urban stage featured high profile MCs including Simon from the boy band Blue, Kano and Crazy Titch. Also appearing were The Popes who provided raucous and energetic entertainment from one of the best Irish live bands around. Harare Dread also made a special appearance. The Zimbabwean born and Malawian bred Pax Nindi’s brand of live roots music and thought-provoking lyrics have made him the master of African Reggae music since the 80s. See our carnival photo galleries of the people and the processions using the links on the right hand side >> | 
