Children set to enjoy 'magic' of Luton Carnival despite cancelled parade

Working with carnival groups up and down the country, the UK Centre for Carnival Arts (UKCCA) in Luton is bringing the party home to every child and young person this summer with the new National Children’s Carnival Week.

The programme, running from July 12 to 18, will provide free learning resources and Covid-safe activities for schools and youth groups, after a challenging year.

UKCCA has received funding for the project from Arts Council England’s Cultural Recovery Fund, as well as some local funding from London Luton Airport.

Clary Salandy, artistic director of UKCCA, said: "We recognise that teachers have been under enormous pressure to keep children learning during the pandemic, so we are offering a range of carnival activity that can link to the summer curriculum.

"Our dream is to have all children in the UK celebrate carnival together in their schools."

UKCCA will be kicking off Luton’s programme this Thursday with workshops and special carnival moments at The Meads Primary School and Mini Stars Nursery at the UKCCA centre.

If your school or youth group would like more information, visit www.carnivalarts.org.uk/learning-resourcesTo sign up this summer, contact Clary Salandy at [email protected] or phone 07824774123.