By Udai Gurung MBE – Colchester
The Colchester Diverse Communities Network (CDCN) once again demonstrated the power of collaboration, inclusion, and tireless community spirit by delivering a vibrant and uplifting Colchester City Carnival and Funfair 2025, despite the odds, including unpredictable weather. Under the steadfast leadership of Major Udaibahadur Gurung MBE, the event, held on Saturday, 19 July, was a resounding success, uniting people from all walks of life in celebration of culture, diversity, and shared identity.
Planning a Carnival with Purpose
Planning began as early as October 2024, with initial sponsor commitments of £6,000, which later rose to nearly £10,000 thanks to the generosity of local partners. Having already organised two successful carnivals in 2023 and 2024, CDCN approached this year’s event with confidence and experience, holding a series of strategic meetings between October and June, including public briefings, trustee sessions, and coordination calls. The final event was meticulously prepared to ensure every detail reflected CDCN’s mission: bringing communities together to celebrate cultural richness and inclusivity. From early application submissions to Amphora Ltd, to a robust plan addressing noise levels for residents near Lower Castle Park, every element was carefully considered with professionalism.
Carnival Day: A Community in Celebration
Despite initial weather concerns, the skies cleared, and the festivities unfolded with joy and colour. The procession, led by Major Udai himself, was a spectacle, featuring Brazilian Samba dancers, the Town Crier, the Town watch, Carnival Queen, Prince, and Princesses, organised by Pam Waller, a spectacular performance by Drumafrique Drummers and Dancers, including fire-eating acts and a spirited march through Colchester’s historic heart.
The Lower Castle Park came alive with:
16 international food stalls
Funfair rides
Cultural performance
Merchandise traders
Community outreach stalls, including St Helena Hospice, Essex Search and Rescue, Cancer Awareness (NHS), and more.
A Spectacular Stage Celebration!
From 2:30 pm to nearly 7:00 pm, the stage came alive with 27 incredible communities showcasing their rich cultures through stunning costumes, vibrant international dances, and captivating performances, a true celebration of Colchester’s diversity! A huge thank you to our amazing MC team, Rodney, Irene, Liz, Sami, and DJ Ross, who expertly managed the nonstop show, keeping the energy flowing and ensuring every group had their moment to shine. Your dedication made it all possible!
To Our Wonderful Sponsors, I extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous support. Without your kindness and belief in this vision, the Colchester City Carnival and Funfair could never have reached the vibrant scale it has today. Your sponsorship has helped bring colour, joy, and a true celebration of diversity to our city.
As Sir Bob Russell, former MP for Colchester, shared in his kind message: “Congratulations on today’s Colchester Carnival, it was most enjoyable! A lot of organisations had clearly been put into the proceedings. Even the arrival of the rain did not spoil the occasion! I greatly appreciate what you achieved.”
With your continued support from our sponsors, Sir Bob and Pam Cox MP, and the Mayor, I hope we can sustain this spirit for years to come, bringing communities together, celebrating our differences, and creating lasting memories.
Local and regional media were engaged, including BBC Essex, Anglia TV, BFBS Colchester, and Radio Colne, ensuring widespread coverage and community engagement, as well as the constantly updated Colchester Diverse Communities Network (CDCN) at cdcn.org.uk.
Voices of the Community
The heartwarming flood of praise from across the community painted a clear picture: the Carnival was not just an event, it was a shared moment of joy, unity, and expression.
“Despite the challenging weather, you pulled off a fantastic event with great spirit and energy.”
“You made us all feel welcomed and part of the team.”
“Truly inspiring and nothing short of remarkable… Your dedication and commitment made all the difference.”
“Thank you for allowing us to do something truly meaningful.”
“The vibrant parade, lively dances, and sense of unity showcased the strength of our communal bond.”
These testimonials came from performers, stallholders, volunteers, and visitors alike, all of whom were moved by the care, inclusivity, and excellence shown by the organising team.
A Sincere Thank You to Security Teams
We extend our deepest thanks to Gordon Evans from Zed Security Ltd and his staff, Essex Police and Rotary Clubs of Colchester, Colchester Forum and Colchester Club for providing the dedicated safety stewards who helped make this year’s Carnival procession safe, smooth, and successful.
Your commitment and professionalism were vital; without your support, we simply would not have been able to stage the procession at the scale we did. Your hard work behind the scenes ensured that everyone could enjoy the vibrant celebration in a secure and well-managed environment.
Heartfelt Appreciation to All Who Made It Possible
I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of the Colchester City Carnival and Funfair. A special thank you to Naina and Masina Gurung, who worked tirelessly by my side throughout the entire day. Your dedication means the world.
To all those who supported the organisers both directly and behind the scenes, to the traders, funfair providers, community promoters, and merchandise stallholders, your presence brought energy and colour to the event. Gratitude also goes to organisations such as Essex Search and Rescue, the Army Benevolent Fund, and the many other charities that took part with purpose and heart. And most importantly, a huge thank you to the public, who came out in their thousands. Your enthusiasm, joy, and support are the true lifeblood of this Carnival. Without you, none of this would be possible.
Looking Ahead
This year’s success reaffirms CDCN’s role as a pillar of community cohesion in Colchester. With Major Udai already expected to begin planning for an even bigger and brighter 2026 Carnival on Saturday, 18 July 2026, the future of community celebration in Colchester is in passionate and capable hands.
About CDCN
The Colchester Diverse Communities Network (CDCN) is a grassroots community-led initiative dedicated to promoting inclusivity, cultural awareness, and social cohesion. Through large-scale public events, targeted outreach, and partnerships with civic institutions, CDCN works tirelessly to build bridges across communities, celebrate differences, and foster shared understanding.
For more information about CDCN, to get involved, or to support future events, please contact: admin@cdcn.org.uk. Or visit cdcn.org.uk, our website.
