Ultimate Guide to Notting Hill Carnival 2025

The exciting Notting Hill Carnival brings London's streets to life every summer. Known for its rich Caribbean heritage, exhilarating music, dazzling costumes and mouth-watering food, it attracts up to 2 million people annually. As in previous years, Notting Hill Carnival 2025 will take place on the August Bank Holiday weekend.

The following content will explore everything related to Notting Hill Carnival 2025, including when, where, exciting events, and how to get there. Besides, as a portable power supply, we highly recommend the Jackery Portable Power Station for powering your electronics and devices outdoors, which has higher capacity and portability.

Do You Know Notting Hill Carnival?

Notting Hill Carnival is a large-scale free street celebration centred on the Caribbean community. It aims to celebrate freedom and Caribbean culture. It is the largest street festival in Europe and the second largest carnival globally. Its grandeur is second only to that of the Rio de Janeiro Carnival in Brazil, which attracts millions of tourists worldwide.

At Notting Hill Carnival, people can enjoy the explosive rhythm, a wide range of street food, dazzling costumes and grand parades. Its iconic parade teams show special performances such as Mas, Soca, Calypso, Steel Drum Band, etc.

The Origin and Development of Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival arose from immigrant culture in the 1960s. At the time, London's Notting Hill District was home to many Caribbean immigrants, particularly from the West Indies. To ease their homesickness, they celebrated their ethnic identity through traditional carnivals.

In 1966, local social worker Rhaune Laslett organised the first Notting Hill Carnival, an outdoor carnival parade. The original Notting Hill Carnival attracted approximately 500 people. By the mid-1970s, the Carnival had attracted over 150,000 people. At the same time, the Carnival garnered support from the British royal family.

For example, King Charles III was excited about the Notting Hill Carnival, even when it was banned due to rioting. The Carnival's events progressively grew, and by the 1980s, it had grown into a magnificent celebration of music, dance, art, and food.

When and Where Is Notting Hill Carnival 2025 Held?

Those interested in attending the Notting Hill Carnival 2025 can read the following to determine when and where it is held.

When Is Notting Hill Carnival 2025 Held?

Notting Hill Carnival is usually held on the August bank holiday weekend. In 2025, it will be held for two days, from Sunday, August 24, to Monday, August 25. The two-day event will allow people to experience dazzling floats, performers dressed as kaleidoscopes, and the sweet aroma of smoky roast chicken.

August 24 is mainly family and children's activities, while August 25 is mainly adult activities. In addition, a Steel Band Competition Day will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, as a warm-up event for Notting Hill Carnival 2025.

Where Is Notting Hill Carnival 2025 Held?

As in previous years, Notting Hill Carnival 2025 will unsurprisingly take place in Notting Hill, mainly covering the W10 area. However, its activities will extend to Ladbroke Grove, Westbourne Grove, Seabourne Park, Seabourne Grove and Bayswater.

For example, the Notting Hill Carnival parade route is more than three miles long, starting near Seabourne Park station, winding to Seabourne Grove and returning to Ladbroke Grove. Due to the high number of people at Notting Hill Carnival, most streets in W10 and W11 will be designated as pedestrian streets.

Which Day Will Be the Most Exciting at Notting Hill Carnival 2025?

Notting Hill Carnival 2025 will run from Sunday, August 24 to Monday, August 25, with a Steel Band Competition Day on Saturday, August 23 as a warm-up event. Which day of the Notting Hill Carnival 2025 is more exciting depends on your desired atmosphere. The following will explain the activities and highlights of each day for your reference:

Saturday, August 23, 2025

Although Notting Hill Carnival 2025 officially opens on Sunday, on Saturday, the UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition will be held at Eslie Horniman's Pleasance Park, W10 3DH, from 16:00 to 23:00 (tentatively). It is the largest and most respected annual steel drum event outside the Caribbean. At that time, five bands will each perform a 10-minute piece of music. No sheet music is allowed.

Sunday, August 24, 2025

On the first day of Notting Hill Carnival 2025, people can see the opening ceremony and the children's parade.

Opening Ceremony: The official opening of Notting Hill Carnival 2025 will be held at MAS Judging Point, Great Western Road, from 10:00 to 10:30. Traditionally, residents and participants, accompanied by their organisers and friends, open Notting Hill Carnival.

Children's Day Parade: The opening ceremony is followed by a children's parade, where children dance through the streets in elaborate costumes and face paint.

Dutty/Fun Mas Parade: Adults can also participate in the Dutty Mas during the children's parade. At that time, people will throw colourful paint and powder at the audience to the sound of music.

Sound Systems: From noon, the street sound systems will play various music, from rare grooves to house to sas and MBAS.

Monday, August 25, 2025

The last day is usually regarded as the climax of Notting Hill Carnival, combining music, parades, and multicultural experiences.

Adult's Parade: The Adult's Parade will be about 3.5 miles long and occupy most of W10. Although the exact route for 2025 has not yet been determined, the parade usually starts near Westbourne Grove tube station at 9:30 a.m., winding through Great Western Road, slowly arriving at Westbourne Park, and then up to Ladbroke Grove. People usually wear their brightest and most colourful costumes to participate in the parade.

Sound Systems: From 12:00 to 19:00, about 40 sound systems play rare rhythms throughout the Notting Hill Carnival activity area, including reggae, house, and samba music.

In conclusion, the final day of Notting Hill Carnival is typically regarded as the most thrilling day since the procession is the largest, the music performances are the most intense, and the carnival mood reaches its climax. Sunday's Notting Hill Carnival is more appropriate for parent-child participation, as it is safer and more enjoyable. The UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition, held on Saturday as a prelude to Notting Hill Carnival, draws local Caribbean immigrants and music fans.

Do You Need a Ticket for Notting Hill Carnival 2025?

Almost all Notting Hill Carnival events, including the main parade and all other live street entertainment, are free to attend. Anyone can attend the Notting Hill Carnival 2025 parade and street celebrations without a ticket.

For example, arriving early for the Notting Hill Carnival parade on Main Street can give people the best viewing position and allow them to enjoy the fun. However, if you want to participate officially in the Notting Hill Carnival 2025 parade, you must join an organised, qualified participating group or pay to enter.

The UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition, held at Emsley Horniman Fun Park on August 23, 2025, usually requires a ticket to enter. Ticket prices for the UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition have not yet been announced, but are expected to go on sale in late July. Tickets are limited, so you should check the official website in advance to ensure you can attend these popular events. Please note that tickets must be booked through the official event website or a reliable platform.

How Do You Get to Notting Hill Carnival 2025?

As one of London's most famous summer festivals, Notting Hill Carnival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Its central event locations are London W10 and W11 Streets, Notting Hill, Ladbroke Grove, Westbourne Grove, Westbourne Park and Kensal Road.

To ensure you can arrive smoothly and enjoy this carnival feast, the following provides a detailed guide to transportation methods and practical suggestions for getting to the scene.

Subway

The subway stations closer to the main event venues include Notting Hill Gate Station, Seabourne Park Station and Royal Oak Station, but they may be swamped during the carnival. Ladbroke Grove and Holland Park will be closed on the days of the Notting Hill Carnival 2025. The subway stations closer to Notting Hill Carnival 2025 are less likely to be significantly disturbed, including Bayswater Station, Paddington Station, Latimer Road Station, Shepherd's Bush Station, White City Station and Wood Lane Station.

Some subway stations may suddenly close or adjust their opening and closing times; for example, some will only be open to exits on weekends. To avoid being unable to enter or exit the station after arriving, it is recommended that you check the Transport for London website for the latest situation.

Bus

Notting Hill Carnival 2025 is mainly held on the streets of Notting Hill and Seabourne Park, and many bus routes exist in the area. However, many road closures on weekends mean that many buses will be diverted or even stopped.

For example, the roads around the Notting Hill Carnival area will be converted into pedestrian paths. After arriving, you should take the outer bus routes and walk to the area. Use convenient applications such as Citymapper to determine the best and latest routes.

Walking

During Notting Hill Carnival 2025, all public rental bicycle or motorcycle services within the event area have been suspended and will not operate. Therefore, walking is the fastest and most convenient option if you live in the surrounding area. Combining the subway or bus and walking to the nearest open station after getting off is best.

In short, during Notting Hill Carnival 2025, the surrounding roads will be closed from 7 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, to the morning of Tuesday, August 27. Priority should be given to public transportation, especially the subway. Watch the Transport for London website (https://tfl.gov.uk/) for the latest developments and real-time route adjustments.

Notting Hill Carnival 2025 Packing List

If you want a perfect Notting Hill Carnival experience, please pack the essentials. Here is a detailed packing list for Notting Hill Carnival 2025.

Cash: Most food stalls may not accept mobile payments and only accept cash. It is recommended that you bring small amounts of pounds. It is best to get a valid credit card as a backup.

Sun Protection Products: Outdoor activities last all day, so it is necessary to bring high-factor sunscreen (SPF50+), sun hats, sunglasses, and other UV protection products.

Waterproof Jacket or Raincoat: London's weather is changeable, and portable rain gear is necessary.

Portable water bottle: Refill water anytime to avoid heatstroke and queues.

Hand Sanitiser and Wet Wipes: Clean your hands before dining at food stalls.

Mosquito Repellent: There are more mosquitoes in the open air at night.

Earplugs: Sensible people can prepare earplugs to prevent bands or high-decibel noise.

Medical Supplies: A portable first aid kit should include band-aids, painkillers, gastrointestinal medicines and anti-allergy drugs.

Decorations: Colourful headbands, headdresses, masks, feather ornaments, stickers and other decorations can help you blend into the atmosphere of Notting Hill Carnival.

Small Backpack or Waist Bag: A portable backpack or waist bag can not only store essential items close to your body, but also prevent theft and pickpocketing, and will not hinder your movement.

Backup Mobile Power Bank: Functions such as taking photos, navigating, and contacting will continue to drain your mobile phone's battery. Push forward the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus or 240 v2 portable power station to replenish power for your mobile phone.

Child Protection Equipment: If you bring your child to Notting Hill Carnival 2025, please prepare an anti-lost bracelet.

The above packing list is for reference only. Please adjust according to the weather and your needs. Try to travel light and avoid too many items that hinder your movement.

Jackery Portable Power Station for Festivals

Notting Hill Carnival is one of the largest street festivals in the world, renowned for its vibrant energy, sound systems, elaborate costumes, and numerous food stalls. Powering such a massive, dispersed event presents significant logistical challenges. Traditional grid access is often limited or non-existent for temporary setups, making portable power solutions essential.

This is where Jackery Portable Power Stations, particularly the larger models, become incredibly valuable. A key factor at Notting Hill Carnival is that the council generally does not provide electricity for street traders. Vendors are explicitly required to bring their power supply; diesel generators have been historically recommended. This makes portable power stations a necessity, not just a convenience.

Every food stall and merchandise vendor needs reliable power for card readers, cash registers, and lighting, especially as the carnival stretches into the evening. Jackery units can easily handle these essentials.

Jackery Explorer 300 Plus

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus is a compelling choice for Notting Hill Carnival 2025, especially for individual vendors, smaller stalls, and staff support. It hits a sweet spot, balancing portability with significant improvements in battery technology (LiFePO4) and output (288Wh capacity, 300W output), making it highly suitable for the unique demands of a large, decentralised street festival.

Crucial for Payment Systems: The Carnival's street traders must provide their own power. The 300W AC output (with 600W surge) is enough to power multiple card readers, tablets for POS systems, and small cash registers simultaneously. This ensures vendors can process transactions smoothly, vital for revenue at a bustling event.

Lighting: The 288Wh capacity allows for extended use of LED string lights or small display lighting for food and merchandise stalls, essential for visibility, atmosphere, and continued trading as dusk falls (trading is typically until 8 p.m.).

Phone and Laptop Charging: This is crucial for vendors and staff to stay connected, manage inventory, and handle communications throughout the long carnival days. The 300 Plus can charge a typical smartphone and a laptop for several hours.

Small Appliances: While not for heavy-duty cooking, the 300 Plus can handle small blenders for drinks, small fans for cooling, or even a low-wattage commercial coffee machine for a limited time, expanding a vendor's offerings.

Safety in Crowds: Notting Hill Carnival is incredibly densely packed. The LiFePO4 battery chemistry in the 300 Plus is inherently more stable and less prone to thermal runaway (overheating). This significantly reduces fire risk, a significant safety concern in such a crowded urban environment. This aligns with the London Fire Brigade's focus on generator safety.

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

Jackery Explorer 240 v2

The Jackery Explorer 240 v2, with its 256Wh capacity and 300W (600W surge) AC output, has a particular niche at an enormous and logistically complex event like Notting Hill Carnival. While it won't power a central sound system or a large cooking setup, it offers significant advantages for individual users, small vendors, and support staff.

Ultra-Lightweight: At just 7.94 lbs (3.6 kg), the Explorer 240 v2 is incredibly easy to carry. Navigating the dense crowds and tight spaces of Notting Hill Carnival with heavy equipment is a significant challenge. Its lightweight makes it manageable for anyone to transport to their stall, set up, and move if needed.

No Noise Pollution: Unlike traditional diesel generators, the 240 v2 operates silently. This is a massive benefit for a music-focused event like Carnival, ensuring that the vibrant sounds of steelpans and sound systems are not drowned out by generator hum.

Clean Air: Notting Hill Carnival occurs in a dense urban residential area. Traditional generators produce harmful exhaust fumes. The 240 v2 emits no pollutants, improving air quality for the millions of attendees, performers, and residents. This aligns with any "green" or sustainability initiatives the Carnival aims for.

Safety: It eliminates the fire risk associated with storing and refuelling petrol/diesel and the health risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in confined spaces, a crucial factor in the crowded Carnival environment, where safety is paramount.

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

Tips for First-Timers at Notting Hill Carnival 2025

Preparing for Notting Hill Carnival is difficult for most first-timers. Here are some practical tips to help first-timers enjoy this world-renowned street art feast.

Tip 1: Arrive Early and Grab a Good Spot

Notting Hill Carnival is very popular and crowded. You should arrive 2-3 hours early, which not only allows enough time for transportation but also secures a good spot along the parade route to avoid congestion and miss the exciting opening. Check the transportation routes in advance and pay attention to any temporary adjustments or closures on the day.

Tip 2: Wear Comfortable Shoes

Notting Hill Carnival requires long hours of walking and standing, and the road may be uneven, so please wear supportive and well-fitting sports shoes or walking shoes. Consider bringing a pair of spare socks if your boots get wet or your feet are uncomfortable.

Tip 3: Keep Hydrated

Drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. London's summer heat is unpredictable, and crowded places can quickly lead to dehydration. Bring a reusable water bottle instead of a glass one. There are four free drinking water points around the Notting Hill Carnival 2025 event area, located at the end of Alderson Street, at the junction of Kensington Park Road and Arundel Gardens 6, outside Kensington Temple Church, and at the intersection of Shrewsbury Road and St. Stephen's Gardens 62.

Tip 4: Try the Specialities

There are more than 300 food stalls in and around the Notting Hill Carnival 2025 event area, mainly serving Caribbean cuisine, including Jamaican roast chicken, curry lamb, roasted corn, tropical fruit smoothies, coconut bread, and more. Don't worry—there are many vegetarian options, too.

Tip 5: Don't Force Your Way into a Crowded Crowd

Don't force your way into a crowded area; follow the flow of people. Moving slowly with the crowd is usually safer than standing still in incredibly congested places. If you feel unwell, immediately move to the crowd's edge or an open area.

FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the Notting Hill Carnival 2025.

1. When is Notting Hill Carnival 2025? What time does it start?

Notting Hill Carnival 2025 will take place on the Sunday (August 24) and Monday (August 25) of the August Bank Holiday weekend, with the pre-show (UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition) taking place on the afternoon of Saturday (August 23).

2. When is the best time to arrive at the Notting Hill Carnival 2025?

Most events at Notting Hill Carnival 2025 start around 10 a.m. If you want a good spot to watch the parade, arriving earlier, such as 9 a.m., is best. However, arriving between 10 and 11 a.m. will help you avoid the crowds. So, decide when to arrive based on your schedule, traffic, and preferences.

3. Can I drive to Notting Hill Carnival 2025?

During Notting Hill Carnival 2025, surrounding roads will be closed. If you drive to the Notting Hill Carnival 2025 event area, you will probably need to park your car in the outer area and walk in. It is recommended that you take public transportation, such as the subway.

4. What to look forward to at Notting Hill Carnival 2025?

What to look forward to at Notting Hill Carnival 2025, which will be held from August 24 to 25, includes parades, music, food and more. Colourful float performers and steel drum bands will travel the streets. Music lovers can also enjoy soca, reggae, calypso and dancehall music. Delicious Caribbean food stalls will offer Jamaican roast chicken, curried lamb and fresh tropical fruits.

Final Thoughts

Notting Hill Carnival is an iconic annual event in London's vibrant Notting Hill community. Here, no matter what colour, what you do, or what age you are, you can dance freely to the music and enjoy the purest joy. Due to the massive scale of the event, crowds are inevitable. So please be patient and positive and focus on enjoying the music, colours, food, and unique atmosphere.