The rain may have fallen all day, but it couldn't dampen the Carnival spirit as Peterborough came together yesterday to celebrate Caribbean culture, heritage and community.

Despite persistent heavy rain throughout the day, residents, families, performers, volunteers and visitors turned out in force for Peterborough’s Culture Community Carnival 2026 on Saturday, filling the city centre with colour, music, dancing and celebration.

The event marked the second consecutive year that Carnival has returned to Peterborough after the city's Carnival tradition was revived in 2025 for the first time since the 1980s.

From spectacular feathered costumes and colourful flags to music, dancing and the Carnival parade, the weather did little to dampen the enthusiasm of those taking part.

placeholder image — Peterborough Carnival

Children danced in the streets, performers continued despite the conditions and members of the public came out to support the celebration – demonstrating the strength of feeling behind the return of Carnival to the city.

For organisers, volunteers and performers, the response from the public was one of the highlights of the day.

Precious Da Silva at Culture Community CIC, said: “We honestly couldn't have asked for a more incredible response from the people of Peterborough. Yes, it rained – and it really rained! – but people still came out, they danced, they celebrated and they showed us just how much Carnival means to everyone.

“There was such a positive atmosphere throughout the day. Seeing families, young people, performers, volunteers and people from so many different backgrounds coming together was incredibly special.

“Carnival is about joy, culture, heritage and community. Saturday proved that you don't need perfect weather to create something special when people are determined to celebrate together.”