After a five-year break, the Cowley Road Carnival® made a spectacular comeback this past weekend, captivating thousands of locals and visitors alike in East Oxford.
The day was a vibrant celebration of culture, entertainment, and community spirit, featuring dazzling performances, lively parades, and diverse activities that highlighted the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
On Sunday, 1st September, East Oxford was abuzz with the rhythm of drummers, the flair of dancers, and the excitement of roller-skaters, as large crowds gathered to enjoy the festivities under the warm sun.
This year’s Carnival was brought to life by the hard work and dedication of the Cowley Road Works Carnival team, spearheaded by its Artistic Director, in collaboration with key partners such as Oxford City Council and Global Carnivalz. The combined efforts ensured a fun, safe, and inclusive experience for everyone involved.
Oxford City Council played a crucial role in the success of the event, offering substantial support in the form of funding, event logistics, organisation, and promotion. This assistance underscores the Council’s commitment to enhancing community engagement and supporting local cultural projects. Other important partners included Thames Valley Police, Oxford Direct Services (ODS), and various businesses along Cowley Road.
“We greatly appreciate the support from the Arts Council, Oxford Brookes, BMW Mini, and Global Carnivalz. However, we especially want to extend our deepest thanks to Oxford City Council for their unwavering support, which was key to the successful planning and smooth execution of the event.”
Roy McEwen, Cowley Road Works Chairperson
“We are thrilled to have supported this year’s Cowley Road Carnival and are delighted to see it return! The energy and joy this event brings to the East Oxford community is truly inspiring to see. We’re proud to support events like this that bring communities together and celebrate the incredible diversity of our city.”
Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture, and an Inclusive Economy
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