Ilkley’s past, present and future is the theme of the 2025 Ilkley Carnival.
Marking the start of Ilkley’s “events season” on Monday 5 May 2025, the carnival will draw on the town’s contribution to culture, history, its strong community and its hopes and dreams for the future as it amplifies Bradford district’s 2025 City of Culture status.
The theme has been unveiled this week at Ilkley’s historic Manor House Museum by pre-school children, primary pupils and children from Ilkley’s Ukrainian community who came to the town and were sponsored by local people as part of the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.
Ilkley Carnival chair Andrew Stacey, said that with Bradford celebrating 2025 as the UK’s City of Culture, it was fitting that Ilkley Carnival, as one of the district’s largest volunteer-organised community events, embraces the theme of culture and its importance to the town.
“Ilkley Carnival has culture and community at its heart with our themes over the years covering everything from myths and legends to movies and tv programmes. Next year’s Bradford City of Culture status is an opportunity for us to be part of a district-wide, national spotlight and regional celebration. As a town with an important history, a strong community and a visionary future, we hope to capture how Ilkley’s past has contributed to today’s community and will equip us for tomorrow.”
Larisa Korol, parent of Eva (9), a pupil of Westville House Primary School, said the Ilkley community has welcomed her and other Ukrainian families, embracing their culture through events such as the Ukrainian Independence Day held each year at the Clarke Foley Centre, craft fairs and Ukrainian services at Christchurch and All Saints Church.
Larisa added: "When we came to Ilkley in the spring of 2022, we had no idea how warmly we would be welcomed. We didn’t know that very soon, despite the differences in language, culture and mentality, we would find our new families, friends and such a huge support from the local community.
“The UK, like Ukraine, is a country with a very ancient history. We know that Ilkley has a very rich historical heritage. Ilkley today is a highly cultural, multicultural town with a tolerant society, and Ilkley tomorrow - I am sure - will be even more beautiful, thanks to the contribution that local communities make today. We are looking forward to Ilkley Carnival 2025, particularly with the theme being so relevant to our experience with the society and culture of this beautiful town.”
Parent volunteer and one of a team of Ilkley Carnival costume makers Angie Chappell whose son Eddy (3) attends Ben Rhydding Pre-School Nursery and daughter Robyn (6) attends Ben Rhydding Primary School, added: “We always look forward to the carnival and the sense of community it creates. Making the costumes is great and it’s fun to be part of a team that pulls it all together. Carnival day is a real joy - the atmosphere is amazing, the kids love it, and we can’t wait to see how all the different schools embrace the 2025 cultural theme!”
Sarah Thomas, Chair of Ilkley Manor House Trust, said the organisation is “delighted” the Carnival team has chosen a topic which links so closely with the group’s mission. She added: “We use the Manor House to tell stories about Ilkley’s past as well as showcasing current visual and musical artists and exhibitions that focus on future issues such as the climate emergency, so it is fantastic that the theme for 2025 embraces our important past, our current times and our ambitions for a positive future.”
Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director, Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture said that next year’s UK City of Culture celebrations are all about showcasing Bradford Disstrict’s rich history, spotlighting its dynamic contemporary culture, and helping shape a new future. She added: “We’re delighted that Ilkley Carnival will celebrate the town’s past, present and future and is demonstrating their pride for the district, embracing the Love Bradford brand.”
Ilkley Carnival 2024 raised £22k for local good causes with £11k going to primary beneficiary, Airedale and Wharfedale Autism Resource. Local organisations are now being encouraged to apply for primary beneficiary status for the 2025 event with the deadline for applications on 31 December.
For details about becoming a sponsor for Ilkley Carnival 2025 which takes place on Monday 5 May, contact carnival committee member Colin Watson on 07885 200640.
To join the carnival’s team of volunteers, or for details on becoming a beneficiary contact Andrew Stacey on 07951 890836.
For more information, visit www.ilkleycarnival.org and to keep updated with all the news follow @IlkleyCarnival on X, Instagram and Facebook.