Bermondsey Carnival 2024
Bermondsey Carnival is making a triumphant return! A dedicated team has come together to honor the late Carnival founder and beloved Bermondsey Legend, Russell Dryden, ensuring that this event continues in his memory.
The carnival will be held on the bank holiday Monday, the 26th of August, at Southwark Park. Admission is free, and we have lined up a fantastic selection of performances, activities, stalls, and more for a day filled with excitement.
The goal is to provide entertainment for every generation, from grandchildren to grandparents. Join us for a day of fun and celebration!
Food and drinks stalls will be on-site to buy. Guests are permitted to bring their own food, but no alcohol is allowed to be brought in.
Southwark Park | Saturday 26th August 2024 from 1pm to 8pm
Two stages
This year’s carnival features two stages. The main stage proudly presents RnB/Garage legend Shola Ama as the headliner, making it a real privilege to have such an incredible artist close out our festivities. Joining Shola on the main stage are the dynamic duo G-Smallz & 2Ton, known for their engaging performances across various locations in London and beyond. Additionally, the lively disco group The Wild Violets will be spreading joy, followed by a No Fixed Address bringing reggae vibes, and Tajabones will enchant the audience with his mesmerizing world music to kick off the event.
Moreover, a special tribute set is planned in memory of Russell, by The Bermondsey Collective & Paradise On Purple. Russell’s profound love for the arts, particularly music, and his talent as a musician are remembered through this dedicated performance. Former band members, dear friends, and associates of Russell have come together to honour his legacy with a set that includes his original songs and some lively covers to energize the crowd.
The Russell Dryden Stage (main stage) Programme
| Performance | Time |
|---|---|
| Mayor of Southwark opens the Carnival | 13:15 |
| Paradise On Purple | 13:20 |
| Tajabones | 14:20 |
| Ten Tonne Ska | 5:20 |
| The Wild Violets | 16:20 |
| Bermondsey Collective | 17:20 |
| DJ G Smallz & 2 Ton | 18:15 |
| Shola Ama | 19:15 |
New stage: Bermondsey Social Club
For 2024 we’ve included a new stage with a capacity of around 300 in a tent, the Bermondsey Social Club stage. The legendary Noel from Bermondsey Radio will kick off the show with a mix of Soul, Motown, and more. Next, the electronic music vibe will take over with the iconic Nancy Noise taking the reigns on the second stage. Joining her will be the beloved outlaws Jessie James, and the up-and-coming DJ star Izzi then local legend Rafe and friends will close proceedings.
| Performance | Time |
|---|---|
| Noel From Bermondsey Radio | 13:00 |
| Nancy Noise | 15:00 |
| Jesse James | 16:00 |
| DJ Izzi | 17:00 |
| Rafe and Friends | 18:00 |
Activities Area
| Performance | Time |
|---|---|
| Ballers Academy 5 A-Side | 13:00 – 16:00 |
| Roosters Gym | 16:00 – 16:45 |
| HIIT Pilates with Sydnie | 16:45 – 18:00 |
| Local Community Stalls and sweet shop | 13:00 – 17:30 |
Access information
Disabled badge parking and a drop-off/pick-up point for disabled people is available on site via the entrance on Southwark Park Road.
The events site is a combination of large expanses of grass and tarmac paths. There are sheltered areas (marquees) and non-sheltered areas. Weather and ground conditions may be variable.
Accessible toilets will be available on site, all of which will be signposted.
There will be signposted information and first aid points located at the event.
Admission policy
Please note that to keep the carnival as family friendly and safe as possible we enforce a strict admissions policy, including:
- No alcohol, there are plenty of vendors on site selling drinks.
- No controlled & psychoactive substances.
- No glass / BBQs / sharp objects and nothing that may cause injury or a nuisance.
- No drones.
- Dogs on leads are permitted
- Bikes / skateboards / scooters are permitted but must not be ridden irresponsibly
Getting there
Bermondsey Carnival takes place in the north of Southwark Park around the bandstand. Entrances via Jamaica Road. We encourage visitors to arrive at the carnival on foot, by bike or via public transport.
Cycle parking will be available in the events site near the bandstand.