The Derby Caribbean Carnival celebrated its Golden Jubilee marking its 50th anniversary on 20 July 2025.
The event was organised by the Derby West Indian Community Association (DWICA), with support from a volunteer-led Carnival Planning Committee.
Since its inception in 1975, the carnival has grown from a small community gathering into one of Derby’s most vibrant and inclusive cultural celebrations, showcasing Caribbean heritage through music, dance, costume, and community spirit.
The event drew carnival troupes from across the UK including London, Leeds, Birmingham, Nottingham, and Derby itself for a spectacular procession that brought colour and music to the city centre.
The festivities culminated at Osmaston Park with a headline performance from international reggae star Maxi Priest, alongside a full line-up of local and national artists, sound systems, Caribbean food stalls, family funfair rides, arts and crafts, and hands-on workshops.
According to the BBC, the celebrations carried on with full energy despite the drizzle. Azaliah Kydd, 31, who was crowned Derby Carnival Queen and dazzled in a vibrant, multi-coloured floral outfit during the procession, summed up the spirit of the day: “We’re not in the Caribbean, we’re in Derby. This is the closest we can get to our roots. The rain won’t stop us!”
