Reading Carnival 2022 cancelled

The Reading Caribbean Cultural Group recently announced that Reading Carnival has been cancelled this year.

The Reading Caribbean Cultural Group (RCCG), the organisers of the annual event, announced that their event was off on 29 March due to lack of funding. 

The group also stated they have been working closely with Reading Borough Council to ensure the return of the carnival in 2023.

In order to increase their chances of launching the event next year, the RCCG said they are planning to host a number of fundraising events and community projects.

They said: "In the lead-up to the May bank holiday 2023, we are planning to host a number of community events and fundraisers, details of which will be available when completed.

The Carnival is regarded as a celebration of Caribbean cultural heritage and the local community heritage. The event has taken place in Reading as a street festival since 1977. 

In 2020, the Carnival was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, which led to the RCCG having to launch a virtual event for the Reading Carnival 2021.

In their recent notice, the group described the cancellation of their 2022 event as "regrettable but necessary", and thanked locals for their support, as well as artists, stall holders, councillors, and all those who had helped the carnival.

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The RCCG commented: "We acknowledge that Reading Carnival is an important and very much valued annual event for the Caribbean diaspora and the wider Reading community. 

“Therefore, it is important that we all do what we can to ensure that the carnival continues in years to come and remain safe for all to attend. We say thank you all and we wish for your continued support."