Notting Hill Carnival 2026 Guide: map, sound systems and routes

Notting Hill Carnival is back on west London ’s streets this weekend 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 is finally here, here is everything you need to know:

Notting Hill Carnival brings 2 million people together Getty 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 included the UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition - the only event you 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.

Check the latest weather as you plan your day, as forecasts predict thunderstorms could hit proceedings .

The parade will travel more than three miles from Westbourne Park station, down Westbourne Grove, and back up towards Ladbroke Grove.

Notting Hill Carnival 2026: Revellers to party on 60th anniversary - live updates