So by now, we should all have accepted that St Pauls Carnival isn’t happening this year. That being said, we should also be incredibly grateful that organisers have still put in a lot of effort to keep the spirit of carnival alive in Bristol this summer, including a landmark team-up that sees Caribbean creativity head to the Harbourside this July.
Two of Bristol’s most iconic events will unite for the first time on Saturday, July 19. St Pauls Carnival is set to bring the spirit, sound and soul of carnival to the Dance Tent on Queen Square at Bristol Harbour Festival—with the Harbour Festival stage takeover providing a free evening of Caribbean artistry.
“This year’s theme, ‘Roots of Resistance’, is all about honouring where we’ve come from while boldly stepping into the future and what better way to do that than by bringing the vibrant spirit of St Pauls Carnival to the heart of the city through the Harbour Festival,” said Dr Michele Curtis, Chair of St Pauls Carnival.
“This partnership is a powerful moment for Bristol. It shows just how far we’ve come in recognising the value of African Caribbean culture as a vital part of the city’s identity. St Pauls Carnival has always been a celebration of culture, creativity, and community – and now, with this city-wide platform, we’re amplifying those roots louder than ever.”
What’s happening at St Pauls Carnival’s Harbour Festival takeover?
The programme begins at 6.30pm with a Schools Takeover affirming the Carnival’s commitment to nurturing community participation and cultural education from an early age. Then, from 7pm, acclaimed spoken word artists, including lyricist, poet, MC and recording artist Rider Shafique, Shakara, and more, will perform powerful, socially conscious poetic narratives that reflect Carnival culture.
After 7.30pm, the energy shifts with performances from local DJs Khadijah Palmer, Bristol DJ, producer and singer Anything But Becky and high-octane sets from DJ Lexxi. Expect infectious beats and carnival vibes from the next generation of party starters. The stage will also be hosted by a longstanding friend of the carnival, with Bristol community ties and broadcast experience, Bandyt.
It’s far from all that’s happening at this year’s Bristol Harbour Festival. Hundreds of thousands of attendees are expected to celebrate the city’s maritime heritage through live music, dance and performance. Taking place from Friday, July 18 to Sunday, July 20, 2025, you can learn more about Bristol Harbour Festival here.