Notting Hill Carnival 2012

The streets of West London come alive every August Bank Holiday weekend as London celebrates Europe's biggest street festival – the Notting Hill Carnival.

Notting Hill Carnival Takes Over West London

With a Caribbean theme that sees West London packed with steel bands, Calypso music and tempting food stalls, the Notting Hill Carnival is a huge party. And everyone is invited!

Expect a sea of colour as amazing floats and costumed performers wind their way through the streets of London.

Whether you want to join in the fun or simply watch the crowds go by, don't miss the chance to be part of one of London's biggest and best annual events.

Notting Hill Carnival: Day by Day

The Notting Hill Carnival usually gets under way on the Saturday with a steel band competition. Sunday is Children's Day, with a shorter parade route. It's also the day that the costume prizes are awarded. 

Bank Holiday Monday sees the main parade. In the evening, the floats leave the streets in procession and people continue the festivities at the many Notting Hill Carnival after-parties.

The 2012 Notting Hill Carnival is set to be bigger and better than ever – check back for more information nearer the time.

The History of Notting Hill Carnival in London

First held in 1964 as an offshoot of the Trinidad Carnival, the Notting Hill Carnival has remained true to its Caribbean roots, bringing a spirit of diversity to London.

When the Notting Hill Carnival first started around 500 people attended. Today it attracts hundreds of thousands to London, and continues to grow in popularity.

You can expect to see some 50,000 performers and 40 sound systems. Around 2.5 million people attend over the Carnival weekend.

Notting Hill Carnival Parade Route Through London

The usual route for the Notting Hill Carnival covers a loop around West London. It generally begins on Great Western Road, then winds its way along Chepstow Road, on to Westbourne Grove and then Ladbroke Grove. This may change for 2012.

The Notting Hill Carnival route is lined with steel bands, sound systems and performers providing entertainment at various points.

Travel to Notting Hill Carnival

London public transport is the best way to travel to the Notting Hill Carnival. Allow extra time for your journey as a number of local Tube stations are closed. See the Transport for London website for full details.