Posted 15 Jul 2011
The Notting Hill Carnival is generally considered to be one of Europe’s largest and most enjoyable festival celebrations. Because of its Caribbean theme, the streets of West London are filled with calypso music, an array of static sound systems, lively steel drum bands and countless food stalls that you will find impossible to resist. In short, it always turns out to be one gigantic celebration where everyone is welcome and everyone has a good time. If you decide you would like to experience the festival and need a hotel then check out the
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What You Can Expect To See: Every year, the twenty-mile parade route for the Notting Hill Carnival becomes a sea of colourful sights as breathtaking floats and performers in custome make their way along London’s streets. More than 40,000 volunteers help to make this event a success, and approximate 1 million revelers are expected to participate as well.
When The Event Takes Place; This year, the Notting Hill Carnival begins with the steel band competition on August 27 (Saturday). Then, the parade route is shortened on Sunday, which is Children’s Day, and prizes are awarded for the best costumes. On Bank Holiday Monday, when the main event takes place, the parade will begin on Great Western Road, continue along Chepstow Road and Westbourne Grove, and conclude at Ladbroke Grove. When evening arrives, the floats will leave the streets in order, and those who attend will continue celebrating at one of the many after-parties that are scheduled to take place.
How This Annual Extravaganza Began: Originally, this event was a local festival organized by the West Indian community in the Notting Hill district for their own enjoyment. Then it evolved into a full-fledged Caribbean carnival that now attracts visitors from around the world. Today, because of all it has to offer those who attend, some people even consider it to be the city’s most entertaining yearly festival.
