Join Vehdance and Movement on the road for Nottingham Carnival 2026!
This Summer Vehdance and Movement is calling all movers and shakers to join them in dancing through the streets at this year’s Nottingham Carnival parade.
The annual Carnival event is an honour of music, dance and celebration with big costumes and even bigger sound systems taking over the city.
Vehdance is looking for individuals who love to move, connect with community and engage with Caribbean Carnival culture through shared creative adventure.
Over 5 weeks you and your peers would meet over five Thursday evenings to learn movement phrases, dance into fitness, design your costume and develop performance skills ready for the parade happening Sunday 16 August 2026.
Who is this for?
This opportunity is open to anyone aged 16 and over who enjoys carnival and is interested in joining a carnival troupe.
No previous experience is needed, whether you’re new to carnival or already love to move, this is a chance to connect with the community, groove to Soca rhythms, get fit and be part of Nottingham Carnival 2026.
If you can hold a 2-step and bring good energy, respect and passion, we’d love to welcome you. Carnival is for all levels of movement experience, abilities and ages, so come and be part of the celebration!
No carnival/Soca dance experience needed but basic movement experience is helpful. This movement style is high energy so attendees should be mindful of stamina, and physical capabilities. Enjoyment is priority so please go at your own pace and capacity.
Things to be aware of
The carnival parade follows a route through Nottingham city centre and ends at Victoria Embankment.
There are many dance troupes in attendance who follow a procession of trucks that play loud music from a sound system. The parade takes place over several hours and the troupe will walk and dance the whole journey from start to finish.
Individuals should be mindful of energy levels, the impact of weather, loud music and filming/photography by the public.
Supported by Fabric