The Notting Hill Carnival London 2016

What is the Notting Hill Carnival?

London’s Notting Hill Carnival began in 1964 as a celebration of the Trinidad Carnival by the Caribbean communities in London. And since that year, the festival began to grow and attract a lot of tourists to become the second biggest carnival in the world after Rio Carnival. It’s a huge cultural and entertainment open-air event.

When?

This year, the Carnival will take place on Sunday August 28 and Monday August 29, 2016. The event starts from 6 am but the parade starts from 10am to 8.30pm.

Where?

The Carnival celebrations will be held on the streets of W10, west London.

What are the ticket fees?

Notting Hill Carnival is free but you will need money to buy food or drinks.

What can you expect?

A lot of fun! There will be Djs, Steel bands and Caribbean bands doing live music shows of different types: Reggae, soca, calypso, house, funk, dancehall and more. Spectacular dance performances and costumes, colorful street parades, tasty food and drinks, activities and games.. It’s a festival of colors, music, playfulness and creativity.

Sunday 30 August: Sunday is the Family Day. The partying is less intense and the activities are more kids-oriented. There will be a colorful parade for children and electric sounds.

Monday 31 August: It’s the main parade day with 60 bands and 38 sound systems, numerous performers and dancers and a lot of other parties organized by nearby clubs and restaurants.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/

Photo credit: www.dailymail.co.uk

There are any safety precautions that I should keep in mind?

Notting Hill carnival is a big event attracting over two millions people each year, it will certainly attract pickpockets. Also, some people may consume drugs or drink too much to enjoy the party more. But nothing is dangerous, as the police is covering the streets and controlling the party. However you should  keep those considerations in mind.

  • You should stay vigilant in crowded places. Don’t take a lot of cash or wear jewelry, keep your eyes on your camera, phone and belongings and don’t wear a backpack.
  • If you see high people or someone getting crazy, keep away from them.
  • It’s probable that you won’t get an internet network or phone signal, so always stay with friends or family.
  • If you want to take your kids, please go on the Family day. But note that even on Sunday, it’s very crowded and noisy.
  • Some tube and bus stations can close for the carnival days, so check before you go.
  • It’s recommend to arrive as early as possible to get a good spot and avoid transportation problems.
  • Take with you bottled water, packed sandwich or snacks, you many need them. Also, don’t forget the hand sanitizer, the sunscreen and the hydration cream.
  • Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

Photo credit: www.london-hotels.co.uk

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