Brighton Carnival History
"Brighton is the only place in England where a Carnival will ever become an annual institution."
The significance of the Brighton Carnival of 1923 was that emphasis was placed on the promotion of Brighton as a resort town, in an extension of the popular promenade sideshows and tourist attractions already available.
During the interwar period Brighton was redeveloped as a town with greater tourist appeal, and was looking for a way to attract more visitors to an already bustling coastal resort. A carnival seemed the perfect solution, and in 1922 the first Brighton Carnival was held. More information on the 1922 carnival can be found using the menu links.
The photographic and anecdotal evidence shows that the 1923 Brighton Carnival was a well-organised event with central administration, featuring motorised floats and widespread community involvement. The event brought together a mix of classes and ages, provided a platform for local businesses and charities, and fostered international relations through music and dance. Popular entertainment such as fancy dress and beauty competitions were well recieved by all. There were big crowds, and the procession covered large areas of Brighton from the seafront promenade to the town centre (especially Madeira Drive and Pavillion Gardens).
Additional information of the Carnival and its legacy could be found on this website.