Carnival

What is Carnival?

• Carnival typically involves a public celebration or parade combining some elements of a circus,

mask and public street party• Carnival began in Catholic countries as a festive

period before Lent, usually held in February.• In Lent Catholics give up pleasure foods: eg cakes,

chocolates for forty days until Easter. • The biggest Carnival in the world is in Rio De Janeiro • Carnival has now spread across the world and many

countries hold a Carnival at different times of year.• Carnivals celebrate the different Cultures which exist

in every society.

LUTON CARNIVAL

• Luton holds the biggest Carnival in Europe.• It began in 1976 as a small festival and now holds

over 1000 participants. • This year the date has been changed to coincide

with the Olympic Flame coming to Luton.• Luton International Carnival showcases the

spectacular diversity of carnival in all its glory giving all traditions a place and space to tell

their carnival story.

Luton Carnival, 2006Photographer: Peter Ryan

Luton Coronation Procession

Northampton Carnival, 1940-1960

Designing for Carnival

Tasks: