Notting Hill Carnival will be back on west London’s streets this month as it celebrates its 60th anniversary.
The world’s second largest festival will see some two million people come together for parades, parties, dancing and food in W10.
Rooted in British Caribbean culture, the festival was born out of a response to widespread racial tensions in the 1950s and has since been the ultimate symbol of togetherness and unity in the capital.
For three days a year, west London is entirely transformed for this one-of-a-kind party. Think jerk chicken, mas bands, and calypso, going from early morning all the way to the early hours.
So, as Notting Hill Carnival looms, here is everything you need to know:
Notting Hill Carnival 2026: Routes, dates, sound systems and afterparties
When is Notting Hill Carnival?
As per tradition, Notting Hill Carnival will take place over the August bank holiday weekend, which this year falls between August 29-31.
The main days are Sunday and Monday, with the former dedicated to families and the latter dubbed ‘adults day’.
Saturday is usually quieter and marks the official opening of the weekend-long celebrations. This year, as is customary, the schedule includes the UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition - the only event you’ll need tickets for.
Family day on Sunday starts from 6am with J’ouvert - the official opening of the day, derived from the French phrase “jour ouvert”. Later on, you can expect to see the Children’s Day Parade in full force with plenty of music, floats, and the Dutty Mas parade.
Monday is when the real party gets underway with the Adult’s Parade starting from 10:30am. Sound systems and live stages will keep the party going from midday until 7pm on both days, before those wanting to continue will have to seek out various afterparties across the capital.
At 3pm on both Sunday and Monday, there will be a 72 second silence to remember the 72 lives lost in the Grenfell Tower fire, as well as those who have lost their life at Notting Hill Carnival.
Where is the parade route?
The parade will travel more than three miles from Westbourne Park station, down Westbourne Grove, and back up towards Ladbroke Grove.
The official Notting Hill Carnival map will be available here closer to the weekend.
Do you need a ticket for Notting Hill Carnival?
Attending the carnival is entirely free. All you’ll have to do is bring enough money to ply yourself with rum punch and doubles.
Like at London Pride, there are VIP tickets available in the Grandstand, where you can watch the parade go by from a reserved seat for £30. The ticket also includes on-site toilet access.
How to travel to Notting Hill Carnival
Londoners will know that getting to and from Notting Hill Carnival is no easy feat. Several stations become exit-only, while others close entirely due to the risk of overcrowding.
The closest stations are Notting Hill Gate, Queensway, and Holland Park on the Central line, or Westbourne Park, Ladbroke Grove and Latimer Road on the Circle and Hammersmith & City lines. But, be warned that these stations get extremely busy as thousands make their way into W10.
One of the worst kept secrets is to travel to a station slightly further away and make the walk in. Paddington, Maida Vale, or Kensal Rise are all good options.
Buses often terminate early or reroute to make way for the parade, so it’s worth checking before travelling.
Best food and drink at Notting Hill Carnival
Carnival-goers will be spoilt for choice across all three days. There are more than 300 stalls selling all sorts of Caribbean fare.
Jay Dees Catering has long been a favourite for its jerk chicken and salt fish, while Curtis Caribbean is famed for its fried fish.
You won’t have to look far to find something to eat from curry goat to oxtail stew and some of the most delicious doubles in London. But keep your eyes peeled for must-try items like Trinidadian roti and Guyanese pepper pot.
Best sound systems
The sound of carnival echoes through W1 and beyond, courtesy of the talented creatives behind the decks.
There is music everywhere from mas bands to steel bands, soca and calypso. But for the best sound systems, look no further than the Standard’s guide here.
Otherwise, King Tubby’s, Killerwat, Gladdy Wax, and Aba Shanti-I are all safe bets to groove.
The first ever female DJ at Notting Hill Carnival Linett Kamala will also be playing at the Trojan 7 x LIN KAM ART stage - a must-visit for dubstep lovers.
Notting Hill Carnival turns 60
In celebration of Notting Hill Carnival’s 60th birthday, heritage and community leaders have clubbed together to kick the party off.
Notting Hill Carnival 60 is offering a host of talks and panels with carnival leaders. The Notting Hill Walks traipse through routes across west London, giving attendees the chance to learn about what the carnival really means. There’s also an opportunity to visit the carnival’s steel pan yards and even a sunset cruise on the Thames.
Meanwhile, there are also rum tastings and pub meets on offer, as well as opportunities to hear from the former CEO of Notting Hill Carnival Dr Claire Holder OBE.
Tickets are available via nottinghillcarnival60.co.uk.
