Leeds West Indian Carnival 2024: Stunning photos of Europe’s oldest festival of its kind show jaw-dropping costumes and performances as parade took a new route this year

With a mixture of elaborate costumes, irresistible music and delicious food, the Leeds West Indian Carnival celebrates Caribbean culture and entertainment.

It was founded in 1967 by Arthur France MBE, who arrived here from St Kitts-Nevis in 1957 and two of his friends, Frankie Davis, from Trinidad and Tony Lewis, from Jamaica, who were students at the University of Leeds.

This makes it Europe’s oldest carnival of its kind as it enters its 57th year and attracts more than 100,000 people every year.

This year the parade took a different route and was held on Harehills Avenue, Spencer Place, Roundhay Road, Barrack Road and Chapeltown Road. It is funded by the Leeds City Council.

Coun Mohammed Rafique, the executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space at Leeds City Council, said: “We recognise the enormous benefits that this annual event makes to our city’s culture, economy, and communities and we are very proud to host it. It should be a great weekend where everyone can join in.”

Arthur France MBE, founder and chairperson of Leeds West Indian Carnival, said: “We pride ourselves on welcoming EVERYONE to Carnival – ours is an open invitation… we invite you to celebrate.”