It's carnival time: world of sound, colour and taste set for Northampton this weekend

The annual event will see thousands descend on the Racecourse this year for a bevvy of world foods, live music and dancing between noon and 7.30pm.

And onlookers can enjoy a see a parade of more than 30 colourful floats as it snakes from Kettering Road and around the town centre.

Chair of the organising committee Morcea Walker MBE, said: “Everyone is really excited now. This year will see the most amount of visiting troupes we have ever had.

“We hope people will come out to give them a rousing welcome, which Northampton is so good at.”

The theme of this year’s parade will be “five continents, one carnival” representing the five Olympic rings.

Northampton reggae act Mystic Crew, will close out the evening at the Racecourse with a performance on the main stage.

Other attractions will include food from across the world, arts and crafts, jewellery stalls and a full bar. A panel of judges will also be selecting a yearly carnival queen.

A rolling road closure will be in place and the exact timings are set to be published on the carnival website tomorrow (Thursday).

Starting at the Racecourse, the parade floats will head along Kettering Road, Abington Street, Derngate, St Giles Street, York Road, Wellingborough Road, Roseholm Road, Roe Road, Abington Avenue and Abington Grove before returning to the Racecourse.

Mrs Walker said: “What we would say to you is find a good spot to see the parade, enjoy it, then find another one.

“Why not see it more than once?”

This year’s carnival cost around £32,000 to stage and is funded by a number of bodies including Arts Council England.