By KLTV Newsdesk –

[Photos by Benjamin Calvert]

The 24th Annual Deighton Carnival was nothing short of spectacular. Under glorious blue skies and amid a palpable sense of excitement, thousands descended on the Deighton Centre Sports Grounds for what has become one of Kirklees’ most cherished cultural celebrations.

With a theme centred on Deighton’s Cultural Diversity, this year’s event offered a vibrant showcase of community spirit, artistic expression, and shared heritage.

From the moment the carnival procession set off at 1 pm, weaving its colourful route around the Ashbrow ward before returning to the Deighton Centre, the day was alive with rhythm, movement and celebration.

Local performers and visiting troupes brought dazzling costumes and infectious energy, turning the streets of Deighton into a moving festival of sound and spectacle.

One attendee said of the event: “I’ve been coming to the Deighton Carnival for years, and this one was one of the best.

“The music, the food, the atmosphere – it’s what community should feel like.”

Another attendee added: “Honestly, events like this remind you what’s special about Kirklees.

“There’s so much talent, joy and diversity. We’ll definitely be back next year for the big 25th!”

A Day of Fun, Family and Festivities

By midday, the Deighton Centre grounds had transformed into a buzzing hub of activity.

Families were spoilt for choice with a rich programme of events running into the early evening.

Kids bounced between the giant slide, bouncy castles and the lively Kids Arena, while adults browsed a wide variety of stalls, enjoyed international cuisine, or relaxed with a drink in the beer tent.

The field activities proved hugely popular, with long queues for free face painting, glitter, henna art, hair braiding and Scotty’s Circus Workshop.

For the more energetic, sports activities ran throughout the day, including the ever-popular Five-a-Side Football Tournament hosted by A.Y.D. Academy, alongside basketball, netball, and table tennis competitions.

On the stage, an impressive lineup of performers delivered a non-stop programme of entertainment throughout the afternoon.

Highlights included appearances from the dance and performance from White Rose Gymnastic School, Kane Irish Dance, Shell It Down Mas, Pure Elegance, Reach Performing Arts, Rhythm Carnival Troupe from Preston, Dance Emporium and more.

Alongside this, a host of talented musicians and artists took the stage including, Eazzy P, Serenity, Shante, Sir Grafta, international recording artist M4GYVER, and many more.

MC’s Farda Fox and DJ Sway alongside DJ Hughlin, DJ Bung, and a host of others kept the energy high throughout the day with a mixture of live sets and community shout-outs.

“A Truly Memorable Day” – A Message from the CEO

Carnival CEO Howard Belafonte shared a heartfelt message following the event: “The Deighton Carnival Strategy Committee would like to send a heartfelt thank you to all those who attended this year’s Deighton Carnival.

“We’d also like to thank those unable to attend, and everyone who has supported us from the beginning of our journey 24 years ago, we truly appreciate it.

“Last Saturday’s Carnival was a truly memorable event, the day was fantastic, the weather was beautiful and the atmosphere was truly amazing.

“Thank you to all our funders and sponsors. Without your continued support the Carnival would not be possible. May your support long continue.”

Looking Ahead: A Milestone Year on the Horizon

As the sun sets on another successful year, plans are already underway for 2026, the landmark 25th Anniversary of the Deighton Carnival.

Scheduled for Saturday 27th June 2026, next year promises to be the biggest celebration yet.

In his closing statement, Mr Belafonte extended an open invitation to the community:

“Next year is the Milestone 25th Anniversary Deighton Carnival. The work starts now.

“If you want to be part of our Strategy Committee, please do contact us. Our monthly committee meetings start this August.

“Come and be part of Kirklees’ annual showcase event, seen as a model of good practice in the UK arts scene. Your input is vital.”

A Carnival Like No Other

Look ahead to the next year, The Deighton Carnival has firmly cemented its status as a pillar of the local cultural calendar, a celebration not only of Deighton’s diverse communities, but of the joy and resilience that unites them.

With music in the air, flavours from around the world, and the laughter of children echoing across the Deighton Centre, it was a day to remember, and a promise of even greater things to come.