2026 MARKS a major milestone for Stalybridge Carnival as it celebrates 50 incredible years of colour, creativity and community spirit.
Global Grooves, Tameside’s internationally renowned carnival arts organisation, is creating an exciting new processional piece for the anniversary parade, taking place on Sunday, June 28.
And they are inviting you to be part of it.
Whether joining as an individual or with a group, everyone is welcome.
Friends, families, and schools are all encouraged to take part. You can sign up by clicking https://www.globalgrooves.org/be-a-part-of-stalybridge-carnival-50/.
Since beginning in 1976, Stalybridge Carnival has grown into a beloved annual tradition, transforming the town’s streets into a vibrant, magical stage filled with music, movement and spectacle.
Ahead of this year’s celebrations, Global Grooves hosted a giant puppeteering workshop at Stalybridge Civic Hall on March 22, where volunteers learned skills needed to bring large-scale carnival puppets to life for the parade.
Participants were guided through every step of the process, including how to safely and comfortably wear and operate the puppets; with a focus on posture and supportive gear.
The experience is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, allowing performers to move with ease and fluidity.
The anniversary parade will feature a stunning selection of puppets – many of which are created by volunteers at The Vale in Mossley alongside Global Grooves – in collaboration with international artists.
Leon Patel, chief executive of Global Grooves, said: “Some of the puppets we might see in the parade are still to be confirmed, but in total we have nearly 50.”
Meet some of the puppets you might see:
The Spice Girls (The Elephants)
Rimen (The Blue Water Goddess)
Sophia (a Ukrainian teenage girl)
Nandi (a cow)
Roma Bird – Catobaren (inspired by India’s national bird)
Be part of something special this summer and help bring the 50th Stalybridge Carnival to life.
@ggc_media 50 Years of Stalybridge Carnival Global Grooves is creating a brand-new processional piece for the 50th anniversary parade on Sunday, June 28 and YOU can get involved. Whether you’re joining solo or with friends, family, or school, everyone’s welcome. No experience needed! Since 1976, Stalybridge Carnival has transformed the streets into a magical parade of creativity. This year will be bigger than ever. Get involved: https://www.globalgrooves.org/be-a-part-of-stalybridge-carnival-50/ #fyp #explore #stalybridge #carnival