Pubs hope to run 'mini festivals' after Oxford carnival cancelled

The event was called off Friday, June 2 after fundraising efforts failed to raise the £20,000 shortfall in funding.

Cowley Road Carnival is Oxfordshire’s biggest free public event, but it has not taken place for three years.

READ MORE: CANCELLED: Oxford's Cowley Road carnival will no longer go ahead

But James Street Tavern and the Black Swan told the Oxford Mail today that they would try to put something else on in its place.

James Street Tavern landlord Josh Mullett-Sadones said: “When it was cancelled last year, we did our own street party to try and keep emotions up.

“So, to hear that it has been cancelled again this year is a big blow.

“We are going to try to do something in its place but obviously it is quite late notice.

He added: “I have been speaking to the council today to get the licensing sorted but there only is a month to go.”

Cowley Road Carnival has in the past seen up to 50,000 people filling the streets of East Oxford for a colourful procession, live music and DJ performances.

After back-to-back years of Covid lockdowns, it was hoped that the event would make a return this year with the theme ‘Our Nature Our Future.”

Mr Mullett Sadones said: “Cowley Road Carnaval just brings everyone together.

“We do not have many public events in Oxford anymore, but this is one that just everyone gets behind.

“It is created for Oxford people by Oxford people.”

A spokesperson for the Black Swan said: "We're extremely disappointed that Cowley Road Carnival has been cancelled this year due to funding issues. 

We had local bands, DJs, food vendors and face painters booked.

"We have been a major part of the carnival since 2013. 

"The local economy needs days like Carnival to compensate for ever bills. 

"We will use our granted, garden licence to do a mini 'Carnival in the Garden' on July 9, just like we did last year. 

"Hopefully Carnival will return in 2024."