News

Windrush 77 to bring colour and culture to Ipswich this month

Ipswich will mark 77 years since the arrival of the Windrush Generation with a two-day festival celebrating Caribbean heritage, culture and community.

Elouise Lavington

Elouise Lavington

— 2 min read
Community members of all ages wave Caribbean flags from a vintage yellow bus during Windrush festival parade through Ipswich streets
The vintage bus parade has become a highlight of Ipswich's annual Windrush celebration, bringing the community together in joyful tribute

Why it matters: The Windrush Generation transformed British society after arriving from the Caribbean between 1948 and 1971, with many settling in towns like Ipswich. This annual festival celebrates their lasting contribution to our community while bringing together residents of all backgrounds for one of Suffolk’s biggest cultural celebrations.

Organisers say the event has grown significantly since launching, describing it as “about coming together to celebrate identity, legacy and resilience.”

Max Thomas addresses crowd from stage wearing Windrush t-shirt and holding microphone at outdoor festival
Community voices take center stage during Windrush festival programming celebrating Caribbean heritage and culture Photo: David E Loney (David E Loney )

The details: Windrush 77 will be celebrated over two days:

  • Landseer Park on Saturday, 21 June from 12:00-18:00: Day one kicks off with a parade led by steel band and stilt walkers, joined by a vintage Ipswich bus. Main stage acts include Olu, Cherise Phillips, Gemini Don and Dennis Lloyd. There’ll also be Caribbean food stalls, a wellbeing zone, face painting and storytelling for families.
  • Sailmakers Shopping Centre on Sunday, 22 June from 11:00-16:00: shifts the focus to reflection, with spoken word, panel talks and creative workshops. A community market will showcase Black-owned businesses, and the Reflection Room micro museum will host live storytelling and pop-up performances. A 1950s bus will be parked outside as part of the tribute.
  • A special Ipswich Buses service from Whitton will run as part of Saturday’s parade at 11:00
  • Both days are free to attend and all are welcome
Three Windrush festival organisers pose together wearing event t-shirts with festival banners and stage visible in background
Festival organisers preparing for another successful Windrush celebration at Landseer Park (Ipswich Windrush Society)

The bottom line: The festival is supported by Arts Council England, Near Neighbours, Sainsbury’s and Sailmakers Shopping Centre. Posters are already appearing around town. Make sure you head over and enjoy the festivities.

Follow @ipswichwindrush for updates or contact Max Thomas on 07876 112437.

This article cost us ~£10 to produce

It's free for you to read thanks to the generous support of our partners.

Below the line