22/04/2026
St Paul's Carnival Legacy
27/4/26
6PM
At St Paul's Learning Centre
A powerful film screening and discussion exploring Black resistance in Bristol.
Easton Cowfolk Radical Film Club presents the final part of a 3-part series on the history, struggle, and resilience of Black communities in the UK, with a specific focus on Bristol.
Part 3 (27/04/26) explores the history, cultural significance, and enduring legacy of St Paul’s Carnival.
Rooted in the traditions of the Windrush generation, St Paul’s Carnival is a community-led, volunteer-run, intergenerational celebration of the heritage, culture, and creativity of Bristol’s Black Afro-Caribbean community. It centres these experiences while remaining open and welcoming to the wider community.
After a three-year pause, the Carnival returns on 4th July 2026, continuing its long-standing tradition of taking place on the first Saturday of July. This year’s theme, New Beginnings, Traditional Values, reflects a commitment to honouring cultural roots while looking ahead.
The day will feature multiple sound systems, a vibrant parade, an elders’ brunch, and dedicated family and children’s spaces – shaped by and for the community. As the carnival approaches its 60th anniversary in 2028, it remains deeply woven into the cultural and political fabric of St Paul’s.
This evening will explore the spirit of Carnival not only as celebration, but as resistance – an expression of joy, identity, and collective strength in the face of ongoing injustice. It reflects the resilience of Black Afro-Caribbean communities who have long fought for equality, dignity, and freedom within systems not built for them.
Communities in St Paul’s and surrounding areas have been resisting fascism for generations. There is strength in collective mobilisation, and by coming together we can cultivate hope and push for change.
This event will be hosted by Julz, Disruptor-In-Chief at Curiosity UnLtd, a think-and-do-tank for racial and social justice.
The evening will include:
- Screening of a documentary film from the Carnival community (2022/2023) – focusing on elder women of St Paul’s and their experiences
- Archival footage capturing the evolution of Carnival over the years
- Panel discussion with Rubba, Cleo & Junior community members closely involved in Carnival
- Audience contributions and Q&A
Caribbean food and snacks from Glen Kitchen (at St Paul's Learning Centre) will also be available to purchase at the event.
This community event is open to everyone whether you’re familiar with this history or discovering it for the first time. No prior knowledge is needed.
After the event, we warmly invite you to join us at a local pub to connect and spend time together in a relaxed setting.
Presented by Easton Cowfolk Radical Film Club, in collaboration with members of the St Paul’s community.
Entry requirements: no age restrictions
St Paul's Carnival Legacy at St pauls learning centre
