Govanhill International Festival - Parade and Carnival

Start: Saturday, August 2, 2025 1:00PM
End: Saturday, August 2, 2025 4:00PM

Running from Friday 1 - Sunday 10 August, GIFC is a gathering of people - artists, activists, neighbours and visitors - coming together in the spirit of anti-racism, connection and protest. The first festival in 2015 originated as a way for the neighbourhood to fight racism following attacks in the local area and, almost a decade on, its anti-racist stance remains vital to the festival and its community. The opening weekend will see a defiant, joyful procession through the streets of Govanhill, as the annual parade brings together samba, lion dancers, street drumming, banners, costumes and a unicorn. This year, the parade starts at Queen’s Park and winds its way into the heart of Govanhill, arriving in Govanhill Park where the celebration continues with free workshops, live music and a community meal prepared by Govanhill Pantry and partners. A wide range of music, dance, art, talks, workshops and performance also feature in the eclectic programme, as well as highlights Govanhill Book Festival (Friday 8 - Saturday 9 August) and the Govanhill Street Music Festival (Sunday 10 August).