Hanwell Carnival to Return After Taking a Year Off
A full day of music, culture and community spirit is promised
The community stage at Hanwell Carnival. Picture: Ealing Council
May 21, 2026
Hanwell Carnival, one of London’s longest-running community celebrations, is set to return to Elthorne Park on Saturday 20 June. The much-loved event, which first took place in 1898, has long been a showcase of Hanwell’s creativity and community pride, and organisers say they are delighted to welcome residents back after taking a year’s break to rebuild funds.
This year’s carnival will run from midday until 6pm and remains completely free to attend. Thanks to a £5,000 contribution from Ealing Council through its Your Voice, Your Town initiative, the event has been able to return with a strong programme of activities despite rising costs. The initiative is designed to support community-led projects across the borough, and the funding has played a key role in ensuring the carnival can go ahead.
Although the traditional parade will not take place this year due to financial pressures, the main event remains packed with attractions. Visitors will be able to enjoy a lively programme on the Community Stage, where musicians, dancers and sports groups from across the area will perform throughout the afternoon. Bands including The Hanwell Ukulele Group, The Grim Face Marys and Those Dirty McGuffins are among those scheduled to appear, adding to the carnival’s long tradition of celebrating local talent.
Families will find plenty to enjoy, with an Animal Zone offering a petting zoo and donkey rides, alongside the ever-popular dog show. A funfair and children’s area will provide entertainment for younger visitors, while roving performers will help bring the park to life. Local traders will also be out in force, with a food zone offering a wide range of cuisines and a craft tent showcasing handmade goods from across the community.
Organisers say the carnival remains an important source of cultural exchange, celebration and local pride. Committee member Des McManus said the team has worked hard since the last event to strengthen the carnival and ensure it delivers a memorable day for everyone in Hanwell and beyond. He added that the support from residents, businesses and funders has demonstrated just how much the carnival means to the community.
Council leader Peter Mason said the event represents the best of local community life, noting that gatherings like the carnival help strengthen pride in place and deepen the sense of connection among residents. He said these moments matter because they contribute to making the borough a shared and welcoming home, and he welcomed the opportunity to support the event through Your Voice, Your Town.
Councillor Lauren Wall, cabinet member for thriving communities, said the event is something local people care deeply about because it offers a chance for everyone to come together and celebrate where they live. She noted that this sense of connection also contributes to feelings of safety, which residents have identified as a priority in Hanwell, and she welcomed the support provided through Your Voice, Your Town.
With its blend of live entertainment, family activities and local flavour, Hanwell Carnival’s return marks a welcome moment of celebration for the borough. Further information is available on the Hanwell Carnival website and through its Facebook and Instagram pages.
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