The Notting Hill Carnival returns this bank holiday weekend, with more than two million people set to pour into west London for the free festival fun.
Billed as the greatest community-led activity on the planet, it boasts a mix of sound stages, food stalls and activities running from Saturday 24 to Monday 26 Augus.
In H&F the fun starts tonight, on Friday 23 August, with a spillover event not seen for years.
Second only in size to Brazil's Carnival in Rio, Notting Hill is a vibrant celebration of rich Caribbean culture, diversity in the capital, heritage and music. It is also the only full-scale carnival in the world with multiple static sound systems, dotted along the parade route.
Get ready to be dazzled with a burst of colours and excitement, featuring the annual steelband competition, open-air music, a feast of global flavours from 300+ pop-up kitchens and stands. And more!
Your guide to the Bank Holiday Weekend
Friday 23 August
The partying starts on Friday 23 August in Shepherds Bush when local DJs Daddy Long Legs (aka W12 resident Dan Green) and Charlie B host a free Notting Hill Carnival reggae and soul advance party at the all-vinyl Love & Unity house party. Join from 8pm to 1am (free entry before 10pm) at O'Donoghue's, 174 Goldhawk Road, W12.
Saturday 24 August
Starting the weekend's fun, the Carnival again plays host to the annual UK National Steelband Competition. Five bands go head-to-head for the title of Panorama Champions 2024, playing 10-minute sets.
Join from 4pm at Emslie Horniman's Pleasance Park, W10.
Sunday 25 August
Sunday is children and family day, with the official opening ceremony and children's parade, and the Dutty Fun Mas – where you're likely to end up covered in brightly coloured powder and paint – starting from 10am.
Plan your route with the official Notting Hill Carnival map.
Grove to the Carnival's iconic sound systems playing reggae to house and samba throughout the day.
Or catch live music at two live stages from 12pm to 7pm at Powis Square, W11, and Emslie Horniman's Pleasance Park, W10.
Monday 26 August
The peak of festivities sees the main parade through the streets, and the most intense party vibe. Grab a horn, grab a whistle and find a place to watch the parade samba past.
Plan your journey
Travel and public transport will be affected, with road closures and bus diversions from Saturday 24 until Tuesday 27 August.
Visit TfL's August Bank Holiday travel advice page to plan your journey.
