Harborne Family Carnival 2025 cancelled following security review

The 28th Harborne Family Carnival, scheduled for 22 June 2025, has been cancelled following an extensive security review. Although no specific threat has been identified, organisers reached this decision due to elevated national threat levels and stringent new security requirements needed to ensure public safety. The decision was made following detailed consultations with Birmingham City Council’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG), West Midlands Police, and Home Office officials.

SAG’s role is to advise event organisers on how to deliver safe public events. At this year’s SAG meeting, organisers were asked to demonstrate how they would mitigate the risk of a major incident. In particular, the number of open side streets along the carnival route was identified as a concern, with recommendations including enhanced security barriers, increased stewarding, and additional access routes for emergency services.

Street festivals worldwide have become increasingly vulnerable targets due to their open layouts, a concern highlighted by recent incidents, including the tragic event in Vancouver earlier this year. After careful evaluation, carnival organisers concluded that it was impractical - both logistically and financially - to implement the necessary safety measures in time for this year’s event, given Harborne’s infrastructure and the nature of the location.

Statement from the Chair

Paul Burgess MBE, Chair of Harborne Carnival, said:

“The Harborne Family Carnival is a highlight for our community, and with preparations already underway, this decision was not taken lightly. We fully understand the disappointment this brings to families, traders, and partners who make the carnival a success each year. Our safety record over the last 27 years has always been strong, and this is an area we’re not willing to compromise on.

Recent global incidents have led to new requirements for enhanced security, such as better protection of the many side streets that connect to the main carnival area. These changes present significant logistical and financial challenges that we simply cannot overcome in time for this year’s event.

Public safety is our top priority, and our attention now turns to 2026. We’re actively exploring new locations and formats that can meet the latest safety guidance while preserving the community spirit that makes the Harborne Carnival so special.”

Refunds and next steps

All stallholders and participants who have already paid fees will be refunded promptly. Organisers will directly contact those affected and request patience while refunds are processed.

Despite these challenges, organisers are committed to ensuring the safe return of the carnival in 2026. Updates will be posted regularly on the Harborne Carnival website.

Contact information

For further information, please contact:

Paul Burgess MBE

Chair – Harborne Carnival paul@harbornecarnival.co.uk