Bradford Blooms with Spectacular Flower Carpet
Bradford — Bradford has been transformed into a spectacular display of colour with the arrival of the internationally renowned Flower Carpet, created for the first time in the UK.
Designed by local artist Shiraaz Ali, the impressive floral artwork stretches approximately 29 metres across and has been created using more than 300,000 colourful dahlia flowerheads. The design draws inspiration from Bradford’s rich textile heritage, combining traditional patterns and symbols with the beauty of flowers.
The Flower Carpet was created live in Centenary Square, in the grounds of Bradford City Hall, with a team of volunteers working alongside experienced specialists from Brussels. The project is inspired by the famous Flower Carpet tradition of Belgium, which has been held regularly since the 1970s.
Visitors have been able to admire the intricate patterns and vibrant colours from close by, while evening visitors can enjoy a special sound and light display illuminating the carpet.
The Bradford Flower Carpet is more than a floral display. It brings together art, horticulture, Bradford’s textile history and the local community in one remarkable living artwork. At the end of the event, the dahlias will be composted locally, allowing the flowers to return naturally to the environment.
The event, held from 24 to 27 September 2026, marks an important moment for Bradford and introduces this celebrated international floral art tradition to audiences across the UK.
