Since 2006, The Ghana Society has been an integral part of Luton International Carnival’s diverse tapestry, annually showcasing traditional Ghanaian culture, dance, and costume design to audiences of thousands. This year’s double anniversary – Luton International Carnival’s golden 50 years and The Ghana Society’s 20-year partnership – represents a remarkable story of cultural collaboration and community cohesion in one of Britain‘s most diverse towns.
The Ghana Society first joined Luton International Carnival in 2006, bringing a 40-strong contingent of performers adorned in traditional Ghanaian dress. What began as a single community group’s desire to celebrate their heritage has evolved into one of the carnival’s most anticipated annual participants, demonstrating how Luton’s African Caribbean-led carnival has become a platform for all of Luton’s diverse communities.
“Twenty years ago, we took a chance on carnival,” said Councillor Maria Lovell MBE, Founder of The Ghana Society. “We wanted our children to see their African Ghanaian heritage celebrated publicly, proudly, and joyfully. Luton International Carnival gave us that stage, and we’ve been dancing on it ever since. To celebrate our 20th year as carnival marks its 50th is incredibly special – it shows how our stories are woven together in the fabric of this town.”
Claudette Whittingham, Executive Producer of UKCCA (UK Centre for Carnival Arts), which organises Luton International Carnival, explained: “The Ghana Society’s 20-year journey with us exemplifies what carnival has become – a space where different cultures don’t just coexist, they celebrate together.
This year’s carnival theme is “GOLD” – celebrating 50 years of cultural excellence, community pride, and joyful resistance. The Ghana Society’s 2026 costume design will feature traditional Ghanaian gold kente cloth patterns alongside contemporary carnival aesthetics, symbolising the fusion of heritage and innovation that defines modern Luton.
The 40-person Ghana Society contingent will perform traditional African music and dance along the parade route, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ghana’s diverse regions. Their participation represents one of many international cultural groups now integral to Luton’s carnival, including the Luton Roma Community Association, Luton Keralites Association (South India), Luton Malagalia Samajam (India), History Knights (Ancient British) and Alif New Beginnings (Islamic carnival traditions).
Luton International Carnival 2026 will take place on Sunday 24 May from 12:00pm to 6:00pm in Wardown Park. The parade begins at Market Hill in the Town Centre and proceeds along the route to Wardown Park. The event is free to attend and welcomes audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
This year’s 50th Anniversary celebration will feature:
- Over 800 parade participants representing diverse cultural communities
- Steel pan performances including UFO Steel Orchestra led by Lutonian and LIC26 Carnival Champion, actor Colin Salmon
- Traditional African, Caribbean, South Asian, Roma, and British folk performances
- Accessible performances for SEND audiences
- Ambition to one of Britain’s greenest carnival – non-carbon-based vehicles
- Performance and Acoustic Zones featuring live music throughout the day
The Ghana Society will have a prominent location in the parade, performing African traditional music alongside a live brass band, with their distinctive gold-accented kente-inspired costumes marking both anniversaries in vibrant style.
Join the Celebration
Attend Luton International Carnival on Sunday, May 24, 12pm-6pm, Luton Town Centre.