Notting Hill Carnival

The Notting Hill Carnival is a spectacular celebration of Caribbean culture held each year in the multicultural Notting Hill neighborhood of Kensington, West London. This vibrant and energetic festival takes place annually on the last Sunday and Monday of August, coinciding with the UK’s summer bank holiday.

History

The Carnival began in the late 1960s, started by Caribbean immigrants living in the area. Today, it is embraced by Latin American communities and people from all over the world who travel to London to take part. From one to two million people fill the streets of Notting Hill every year—many dressed in colorful Afro-Caribbean costumes, playing traditional instruments, and dancing rumba, samba, calypso, and other Latin and Caribbean dances. Large floats with performers and dancers make their way along the parade route, while Caribbean and Latin American snacks are sold throughout the festivities. British families visit the Notting Hill Carnival to watch the spectacle from rooftops and balconies or join the dancing in the streets, enjoying Jamaican, Brazilian, and Barbadian dishes.

Interesting Facts

Learn more about the Notting Hill Carnival celebration:

1. The first Notting Hill Carnival was actually held on January 30, 1959, at St. Pancras Town Hall, which later became part of the Camden district.
2. The inaugural event was organized by Claudia Jones, editor of the West Indian Gazette, and Edric Connor from Trinidad and Tobago, a renowned calypso singer and performer.
3. The very first Carnival featured a beauty contest called the Carnival Queen.

How to Take Part

The best way to appreciate the Notting Hill Carnival is to visit London and experience it in person. If you can’t make it to London, you can watch live broadcasts of the festivities and enjoy Caribbean cuisine at home!

When is Notting Hill Carnival in 2024?

Notting Hill Carnival is observed on the last Sunday and Monday of August each year.

Observations