Notting Hill Carnival 2026

The Notting Hill Carnival 2026 celebrates its Diamond Jubilee, marking 60 years since its inception as a symbol of unity and Caribbean heritage in London. The three-day event takes place across the August Bank Holiday weekend, transforming West London into a massive celebration with a three-mile parade route. The official schedule begins on Saturday, August 29, with the ticketed UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition at Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance Park.

Sunday, August 30, is dedicated to families, starting at 6:00 AM with the J’ouvert opening followed by the Children’s Day Parade and Dutty Mas. The carnival reaches its peak on Bank Holiday Monday, August 31, with the Adults' Parade featuring elaborate mas bands and mobile floats. Throughout Sunday and Monday, more than 30 static sound systems play diverse genres including reggae, soca, and calypso from midday until 7:00 PM.

Attendees can experience authentic Caribbean cuisine from over 300 stalls offering traditional dishes like jerk chicken, curry goat, and Trinidadian roti. A significant tradition continues at 3:00 PM on both parade days with a 72-second silence to honor victims of the Grenfell Tower fire. Most of the carnival remains free to the public, though specific areas like the Grandstand offer reserved seating for a fee.