Brighton Carnival says the show will go on and is looking for sponsorship after losing its Arts Council funding.
The carnival, which will be held on Sunday, July 25 this year, was first held in 1922, but has been holding July parades in its current form since 2007 – during which time the Arts Council has been its main source of funding.
Now, it has a tough target of £60,000 to raise to make sure it can continue to raise more money in turn for the various community groups it supports.
Caroline Fletcher, Chair of the Brighton Carnival Association Board said “we are determined to find the money to ensure that the 800 people – many from community groups across the city – who look forward to and spend hours preparing for Parade Day won’t be disappointed, not to mention the 40,000 people who come to watch.
“We have received support from many local businesses and generous individuals in the past and once again we are asking them to dig deep and support Brighton Carnival.”
A meeting will be held for potential sponsors at a later date.
The Arts Council England, while praising Brighton Carnival for the high level of artistic standard, said it could not offer financial support as there was a higher than usual competition for funds.
Brighton & Hove City Council, who have funded Brighton Carnival over the last three years, have showed their support. A council spokesman said: “We are working closely with the Carnival board to provide advice and support and have encouraged them to apply for our community grants to help make up some of the shortfall.”
Brighton Carnival Association is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company and the money raised supports community groups to learn the skills to make a spectacular and colourful parade entry, as well as the production of the event itself.
To make a donation or to show your support, please contact info@brightoncarnival.co.uk or visit www.brightoncarnival.co.uk.
