2. What is Carnival? Carnival typically involves a public celebration or parade combining some elements of a circus, mask and public street party Carnival began in Catholic countries as a festive period before Lent, usually held in February. In Lent Catholics give up pleasure foods: eg cakes, chocolates for forty days until Easter. The biggest Carnival in the world is in Rio De Janeiro Carnival has now spread across the world and many countries hold a Carnival at different times of year. Carnivals celebrate the different Cultures which exist in every society.

4. LUTON CARNIVAL Luton holds the biggest Carnival in Europe. It began in 1976 as a small festival and now holds over 1000 participants. This year the date has been changed to coincide with the Olympic Flame coming to Luton. Luton International Carnival showcases the spectacular diversity of carnival in all its glory giving all traditions a place and space to tell their carnival story.

5. Luton Carnival, 2006 Photographer: Peter Ryan

6. Luton Coronation Procession

7. Northampton Carnival, 1940-1960

10. Designing for Carnival

18. Tasks: