London’s biggest street party is back! The last two years saw the world famous Notting Hill Carnival forced to cancel due to the pandemic. But this year it’s back and set to be bigger and better than ever.
The first ever Notting Hill carnival was known to have only had around 500 attendees. It began in 1966 by local resident, Rhaune Laslett, who organised a street fayre for the local children. Fast forward nearly 40 years and over 2million people from all backgrounds and cultures come to party in Europe's largest, most diverse street party to celebrate Caribbean culture. The carnival is second in size only to the Rio Carnival, held each year in Rio De Janeiro. That's pretty impressive!
The west of the capital comes to life with art, floats, music, vibrant costumes and colour, and wonderful food from a huge variety of street food vendors. Whatever’s your flavour, you’re truly spoilt for choice. Music plays a huge part of the celebrations, with 36 different sound stages in all areas of W10. Expect to find an eclectic range of music from old school reggae, hip hop, bashment, disco and house, spanning all the way to Latin samba! Whatever your vibe, there’s something to get your feet moving!
The carnival is free to attend and runs over two days. Sunday, typically known as “family day” runs from 10.30 to 5pm (with the children's parade starting at 10.30) and returns on Monday as “adults day”. You can find the full program here:
Notting Hill Carnival Programme 2022 – MyCarnival • Notting Hill (mynottinghillcarnival.com)
And all information on the 2 day event on the official Notting Hill Website:
Notting Hill Carnival (nhcarnival.org)
Be sure to check your travel routes as many stations in the local area are either closed or exit only for the event.
If you haven’t been to Notting Hill Carnival, it is something you should experience at least once in your life! It really is a feast for the senses and the soul. Immerse yourself in the celebration of culture and soak up everything it has to offer!
If you are nervous of large crowds, check out one of our previous blogs here on how to manage.
