Join in the Carnival celebrations

Last year’s parade and carnival drew more than 1200 people with a large number of community groups and organisations taking part.

Throughout the 11-day festival there will be events exploring the Jewish and Roma communities in Govanhill, the area’s Irish links, a concert of peace songs, film screenings, concerts, kite festival and much more.

The official launch event today (Thursday) kicks off the proceedings.

From 4-6pm, at the Daisy Street Halls, The Lord Provost Eva Bolander will do the honours, with entertainment provided by local choirs and singing groups.

Organiser Ruby Hirsch said: “In 2017, our first ever Govanhill Carnival took place. It was launched by Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister for Scotland, and featured a weekend of music, with a parade and carnival.

“Our aim was to pilot a creative approach to combating division and racism while celebrating our uniqueness and all that makes Govanhill great.

“It was a fantastic success, and this year has grown into an 11-day extravaganza of events.”

On Saturday, August 18, from 1-2pm, the streets will come alive as the parade leads the crowd from Govanhill Park to Queen’s Park

A colourful celebration of the unique diversity of Govanhill, the parade brings together community groups, drummers, dancers, jugglers, roller skaters, brass bands and more to weave through the streets of Govanhill, ending up in Queen’s Park, where the carnival will begin.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will address the Carnival’s Concert in Queen’s Park as a spectacular showcase of talent and culture gets under way from 2-5pm,

Featuring performances from Brass, Aye, E Karika Djal, Afghan dancers, a Kurdish oud player, Syrian dancers, Taiko drummers and more.

Elsewhere in the park you will be able to show off your singing talents with karaoke and find community information stalls, food stalls and lots of children’s activities.

Bailie Soryia Siddique said: “As one of the councillors for Southside Central I welcome the Govanhill Carnival. Govanhill is the most diverse area in Scotland where over 50 languages are spoken.

“I look forward to celebrating the diversity of our wonderful city and history of the area.”

For further information on the carnival and to view the full programme, visit Govanhill Baths