Then and now: Exhibition celebrates St Denys events ahead of carnival revival

st denys carnival expo 600px 20250519 110142Photographs capturing the joy of past St Denys carnivals - along with other community events - go on show from today (May 19), in the run-up to the neighbourhood’s carnival revival on bank holiday Monday.

 

 

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The exhibition, at St Denys Church (until May 26), invites visitors to look back at previous festivities, and look forward to the return of the St Denys Carnival on spring bank holiday Monday after almost 30 years.

Imaginatively displayed across Heras fencing within the church, the photographs and memories have been contributed by St Denizens past and present.

They include scenes from the Art of Heritage event in 2016, the VE Day celebrations in 1945, and the Queen’s Jubilee in 1977.

Other highlights range from carnivals past and a raft race, to appearances by Spanish dance company Deus Ex Machina, the St Denys Jamboree, All Aboard festivals, international dance day and church events through the years.

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One comment displayed about a previous carnival said: “I loved the carnival. It brought everyone together. We all knew each other back then, and we just had one big party in the streets.”

A launch event kicks off the exhibition from 7pm today (May 19) with live music from the Skylarks billed from 8pm.

The exhibition itself is open daily from Monday - Sunday 9am - 5pm. Entry is free.

St Denys Carnival takes place on Monday, May 26, also from 11am - 3pm. More information here

Previously
Parade, cakes and tug of war: St Denys gears up for carnival revival, 30 years on

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