Brighton Bash Carnival 2025: A Roaring Success of Culture, Unity and Celebration

Brighton, July 26th, 2025 – St Anns Well Gardens came alive on this weekend as the Brighton Bash Carnival 2025 dazzled the city with a kaleidoscope of colour, music and community spirit.

Now in its 5th year the carnival is fast becoming the most vibrant and diverse offering in the Sussex calendar. The carnival drew record-breaking crowds, showcasing the best of African, Caribbean, South American and Black British culture while uniting people from all walks of life.

Organised by BARCO – The Black Anti-Racism Community Organisation, this year’s carnival was a celebration not only of heritage but of resilience, joy and connection in the face of ongoing social challenges. With a theme of “Crowns”, the 2025 Bash honoured hair, heritage and history while shining a spotlight on the creativity of a new generation.

A Carnival of Vibrance and Voice

The festivities kicked off with a high-energy opening parade, where samba bands, steel pan groups and dancers in dazzling costumes circled the park with infectious rhythms. From reggae and soca to grime and Afrobeats, the sounds of the diaspora echoed through the park, creating an atmosphere of pure celebration.

Art installations, food vendors and cultural workshops filled St Anns Well Gardens, offering everything from Caribbean jerk and vegan soul food to drumming circles and Black history storytelling tents. Families, tourists and locals mingled freely, creating a welcoming space rooted in inclusion and education.

Community at the Heart

This year’s carnival featured the largest number of local organisations, small businesses and partners in its history. Over 60 volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the event ran smoothly. Meanwhile, more than 30 stalls and vendors – mostly from Black-owned enterprises – brought flavour and flair to the festivities.

BARCO’s co-founder, Bud Johnston praised the community’s involvement:

“Brighton Bash 2025 wasn’t just a party – it was a statement of solidarity and self-expression. We’re proud to see how many people showed up to celebrate Black culture, and even more proud of the young people, elders, artists and activists who made it happen.”

Local supporting organisations and thanks go out to Mayo Wynne Baxter, Sussex Bay, Octopus Energy, University of Sussex, Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club, Audio Active and H2 Productions.

Looking Ahead

The overwhelming success of Brighton Bash 2025 sets a new standard for future community-led festivals in Brighton. BARCO has already announced plans for finding a physical home for its other events and offerings building on the momentum and partnerships formed during the carnival.

For those who missed the event, video highlights and photo galleries will be available soon on the BARCO website and social media platforms. And for those who were there — the memories, connections and rhythms will no doubt live on.

Brighton Bash 2025 wasn’t just a carnival. It was a movement, a homecoming and a vision of the inclusive, empowered future we’re all working toward.

www.brighton-barco.org