Govanhill Carnival: a powerful anti-racist celebration – in pictures

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Aug 6

On August 3, hundreds gathered for the annual Govanhill International Carnival Parade, celebrating diversity and unity in one of Scotland’s most multicultural neighbourhoods. The parade’s colourful displays, from handcrafted art to anti-racist banners, provided a powerful counterpoint to the rise of far-right activity across the UK.

By Samar Jamal | Photo by Iain McLellan

On Saturday, 3 August, hundreds gathered in Glasgow’s Southside for the vibrant annual Govanhill Carnival and Parade. Organised by Govanhill Baths Community Trust (GBCT) as part of Govanhill International, an Anti-Racist Festival of Creativity, Solidarity, and Liberation, the colourful parade featured over 50 community organisations, including Romano Lav, Unity Sister, The Feel Good Women’s Group, Stand Up to Racism and hundreds of residents.

The parade passed through one of Scotland’s most diverse neighbourhoods, with the sounds of drums, bagpipes, and even a unicorn. Attendees proudly showcased handcrafted art, marched to the rhythmic drumming, displayed bright anti-racist banners, waved rainbow LGBT flags, and passionately chanted, “No hate, no fear, refugees are welcome here.”

For many, the parade and carnival come at a crucial time, as anti-immigration hate crimes and violence have surged recently in England, led by far-right groups. Additional visits by these groups have been planned in cities across the country, including one in Glasgow.

Reflecting on the day, GBCT’s Art and Heritage Manager, Simone said:

“This year’s festival was not just a celebration; it was a powerful statement against the backdrop of recent riots across the UK and the troubling rise of far-right groups. In these challenging times, our event stood as a beacon of anti-racism, solidarity, and creativity not only in Glasgow’s most diverse neighbourhood but throughout Scotland and further afield.”

After winding its way from Govanhill Park, the parade dispersed at Queen’s Park where celebrations continued with community stalls and live performances of Capoeira, Brass Aye and more before ending the night with Glasgow’s Love Music Hate Racism’s 20th-anniversary gig.

Festival celebrations continue until 11 August with events and exhibitions throughout the area. For more information on tickets and times visit Govanhill Bath’s website.