A carnival with a ‘mission to bring joy and happiness’ will be returning to St Denys on spring bank holiday (Monday, May 26) after a break of nearly 30 years.
Photo: courtesy Jacqui Bassi

 

A group of local residents, known as the St Denys Crew, has come together to organise the carnival which will be free to attend, and which they say promises “a whole host of entertainment and a kaleidoscope of colour and joy”.

A nature-themed parade, which kicks off Southampton Park City’s Urban Wild Festival, is set to include eco-powered floats, cyclists, and performers on foot departing from 11.30 am.

Leaving St Denys Community Centre it will wind through the streets of south St Denys, taking in a music stop at the South Western Arms, and ending back at the community centre.

James Foster, of the St Denys Crew Carnival organising team, said: “We are delighted to be bringing back this iconic event, which really celebrates the community of St Denys and highlights what is great about Southampton as a whole.

“From local stall holders showcasing crafts and handmade gifts, amateur bakers, to musicians, tug of war teams and parade attendees, this event is set to really bring people together at a time where things are tough for a lot of us. It is our mission to spread joy and happiness to this incredible part of our city.”

An image from the forthcoming exhibition - children taking part in a past St Denys Carnival. Photo: courtesy Jacqui Bassi

As well as the parade, there will be events across various venues, including live music, a craft market, a ‘cake off’ competition, and tug of war contest at the St Denys Community Centre.

The New Testament Church of God in Priory Road will offer performances from a Gospel DJ, ‘have a go’ craft activities, and a Caribbean barbecue.

There will also be live music at The Dolphin pub on Osbourne Road South and The South Western Arms on Adelaide Road as part of the carnival celebrations, and an after party at Woodies at The Junction on Priory Road.

The St Denys Carnival crew said they were also excited to announce a photography exhibition at St Denys Church running from May 19 – 26, celebrating memories of St Denys celebrations and past carnivals. Organisers are also keen to hear from former St Denys Carnival Queens and Princesses, as they are invited to launch and walk the parade.

Interested local traders, parade enthusiasts, tug of war hopefuls and cake chefs are encouraged to check out the carnival website and sign up to be part of this historic carnival.

• St Denys Carnival is on bank holiday Monday, May 26 from 11am – 3pm: visit www.stdenyscarnival.uk for more information.