Carnival Culture
Discover the rhythm, Caribbean colors, and history of Notting Hill Carnival – Europe's largest street festival
In collaboration with
In 2020 and 2021, the carnival was cancelled due to the Covid lockdown, but you can still experience the sights and sounds from home
Watch an introduction...
...from the people who make it so special
The beat goes on
The different ways you can experience Carnival online
The origins
of one of the biggest street celebrations in the world
Get that Carnival feeling
Explore images of West London's favorite weekend from photographer Misan Harriman's collection 'The Last Dance'
The colors of Carnival
A feast for your eyes with the vibrant costumes across the years
Reds, Pinks, and Greens
Explore the rainbow of Carnival history
The faces behind the festival
Learn about the origins of Carnival with the pioneers who help make it happen
"You can be what you want to be in Carnival. It's a time when a beggar can be a king, a prince can dress up as a beggar. You can be whatever you want."- Michael Olton, Soca Massive Founder
How high is your headdress?
Carl Gabriel is the maker behind some of Carnival's most extravagant displays
A spotlight on the music
Playing sound systems, steel pans and mas bands through the street of London
Meet the Mas bands
A key part of Caribbean culture
Meet the Steel Bands
Drumming through history with the sound of the steel pans
Keep on moving
Have you got a favorite memory from the festival?
Experience the festival from home
Follow the parade route online with Street View
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.