Beat's Life is a Carnival is part of the London 2012 Open Weekend, marking a year to the London Olympic Games. Between now and 2012, Games-inspired events will be taking place right around the UK. This year's London 2012 Open Weekend, supported by BP, takes place this weekend. The nationwide programme features art, dance, film, sport events and more.

Please help with research on Beat and the role of Carnival events in the community and the City.

Grupo Bongar from Olinda, Pernambuco, North East Brazil

Seven members of Bongar are visiting Belfast for Beat’s carnival residency, culminating in performances at the Black Box on Friday at 7.30pm and on Sunday afternoon, and of course the big one is the 19 June Carnival programme.

On Friday 18 June, we will be holding an open workshop in Victoria Square 4-6pm for anyone who would like to come along and make a puppet to bring with them to watch the parade and to join in the puppet picnic.

The Beat Carnival are delighted to have our Brazilian Samba Band friends Bongar with us for a two week residency in the lead up to Belfast City Carnival, 19 June 2010.