Eastbourne Carnival 2026 brings colour, creativity and community spirit to the Seafront

Eastbourne Carnival 2026 delivered a spectacular day of celebration on Saturday 23 May, as the town’s seafront came alive with music, costume, dance and community pride. With this year’s theme, “Lights, Camera, Action”, the Carnival welcomed more than 60 groups to the parade route, bringing together charities, schools, community organisations, businesses and visiting performers for an unforgettable afternoon of entertainment.

The main parade travelled from Fisherman’s Green to the Wish Tower Slopes, following an opening ceremony at Victoria Place and accompanied by a lively programme of performances throughout the day. Highlights included the return of friends from Dortmund Carnival, popular Latin American groups, Bhangra Smash Up and the Metronomes Steel Pan Orchestra, alongside a vibrant mix of local Eastbourne and Sussex-based entrants. The day concluded with a street party at Victoria Place, rounding off a fantastic celebration in the sun.

This year’s Carnival once again demonstrated the strength of Eastbourne’s creative and community spirit. The event showcased exceptional effort from entrants, performers, volunteers, partners and supporters, all of whom helped deliver a safe, welcoming and visually stunning celebration for residents and visitors alike.

Our Carnival Winners this year were:

Best Float: Ratton School Academy Trust

Best Costume: Media Attention

Best Performance: Sweet Circus CIC

Best Community Entrant: Printers Playhouse

Best School: Langney Primary Academy

Best Non Sussex Entrant: KAWSAY UK

Through the generosity of the public and direct donations, Eastbourne Carnival raised £3550 – which will go back into next years’ Carnival, and be distributed amongst the Charities and Non-profits that were part of this years event.

Eastbourne Carnival CIC extends sincere thanks to everyone who played a part in making the 2026 event such a success. Special thanks go to the organisers, volunteer team, sponsors, partners, performers and parade entrants whose time, energy and commitment brought this year’s vision to life. The support of the local community, alongside visitors who lined the seafront to cheer on participants, made the atmosphere truly special.

The date for Eastbourne Carnival 2027 is Saturday 29^th May 2027.

For media enquiries, interview requests or further information, please contact Eastbourne Carnival CIC by email: info@eastbournecarnival.com