Celebrate Notting Hill Carnival in style this year, read on to discover our top tips and best bits...
London's much-anticipated, intensly loved and highly attended Notting Hill Carnival is back, ready to paint the city with a riot of colors, music, and cultural revelry. Taking place annually over the August bank holiday weekend, this iconic celebration of Caribbean culture has become one of the largest street festivals in the world. With its pulsating rhythms, dazzling costumes, and irresistible energy, the Notting Hill Carnival promises an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists alike. Here's a glimpse of the upcoming festivities, must-see events, spectacular floats, and some top tips to make the most of this vibrant extravaganza.
The Notting Hill Carnival 2023 will take place on Sunday, August 27th, and Monday, August 28th.
Getting There
The heart of the carnival is located in the streets of Notting Hill, West London, where the neighborhood transforms into a vivacious hub of celebrations, attracting millions of attendees from around the globe.
We recommend getting public transport here as most of the roads will be closed off making it impossible to drive a car in this- unless you park in a neighboring town such as Shepherds Bush and get the tube in. Here are the best tube stations to enter the Carnival at:
- Notting Hill
- Ladbroke Grove
- Westbourne Park
- Royal Oak
- White City
Be aware the tubes get extremely busy and it's always a good idea to carry a bottle of water on you especially in high summer.
Keep An Eye Out For
Grand Parade: The highlight of the Notting Hill Carnival is undoubtedly the Grand Parade. Marvel at the dazzling procession of colorful floats, vibrant costumes, and enthusiastic performers as they wind their way through the streets. Dance to the infectious rhythms of Soca, Calypso, and Reggae music played by the talented sound systems that line the parade route.
Steel Bands Competition: Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of steel pan music at the Steel Bands Competition. Watch as skilled musicians create mesmerizing melodies on their steel drums, competing for top honors and delighting the crowd with their musical prowess.
Sound Systems: Notting Hill Carnival is synonymous with incredible sound systems spread throughout the festival area. These mobile stages host live performances by renowned DJs, MCs, and artists, ensuring a non-stop party atmosphere. Dance to the infectious beats of Caribbean music, spanning genres like Dancehall, Soca, and Reggae.
Children's Day: Kick-start the carnival weekend by attending Children's Day, held on the Sunday. This family-oriented event offers a range of activities, including a colorful parade featuring young performers, face painting, storytelling, and interactive workshops. It's a great opportunity for children to experience the carnival magic in a safe and vibrant environment.
Spectacular Floats: The Notting Hill Carnival floats are a visual feast, adorned with intricate designs, feathers, and sequins. Each float represents a particular theme, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean. From mythical creatures to historical landmarks, the floats bring to life stories that reflect the diverse traditions and identities of the participating communities. Be sure to keep an eye out for the vibrant and elaborate costumes worn by the revelers, who contribute to the kaleidoscope of colors that fill the streets.
Top Tips
Plan Ahead: Given the immense popularity of the Notting Hill Carnival, it's advisable to plan your visit in advance. Check the official website for the latest updates on routes, performance schedules, and road closures to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially if you wish to secure a prime viewing spot for the Grand Parade. The streets become increasingly packed as the day progresses, so getting there early will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the carnival atmosphere.
Stay Hydrated and Sun-Safe: August in London can be warm, so remember to stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle. Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and dress comfortably to stay cool throughout the day.
Take Cash: While contactless payment is now optional at most places the stalls here still predominantely only take cash. If you need a bathroom break and aren't a fan of the portaloo's then there are also residents taking payment to use their bathrooms, in our experience, sometimes it's worth the £2.
Stick Together/ Organise A Meet Point: It's important to note that because of the huge influx of people, mobile phone services tend to go down, meaning you either stick together with your group or arrange a time and a place to meet up because whatsapp and phonecalls definitely won't work.
Embrace the Spirit: The Notting Hill Carnival is all about celebration, inclusivity, and cultural diversity. Embrace the spirit of the carnival,
