Notting Hill Carnival 2019: Dates, Route & Everything You Should Know

16 August 2019, 13:45 | Updated: 16 August 2019, 15:16

Notting Hill Carnival 2019, the biggest street festival in Europe, is taking over August Bank Holiday. Picture: Getty

It's that time of year again! Notting Hill Carnival, the largest street festival in Europe, returns to London over bank holiday weekend 2019 and we've got you covered with all the info.

Notting Hill Carnival, the largest street festival in Europe, is taking over London once again for 2019.

Every year over August bank holiday weekend, the streets of West London turn all the way up as the city's Caribbean communities come together to celebrate the culture and vibrance of the capital.

>>> Your Ultimate Notting Hill Carnival Playlist

The event marks the end of summer for many as the streets flood with colourful outfits, incredible dancers, delicious Caribbean food, drinks aplenty and good vibes all round.

And, of course, the music! Expect non-stop bangers - we're talking bashment, soca, afro beats and more - blasting from sound systems as revellers party the day away.

You ready? Here’s everything you need to know about Notting Hill Carnival 2019.

The main parade at Notting Hill Carnival is a colourful array of dancers, music and good vibes. Picture: Getty

When is it?

Notting Hill Carnival 2019 is scheduled to take place on Sunday 25th August and Bank Holiday Monday 26th August.
The Sunday is also known as 'Children's Day' and is recommended for families due to the smaller crowds and child-friendly floats.
The Grand Finale takes place on Monday as the festival comes to a close with dancing, street performances, steel drum music groups, and the iconic Notting Hill Grand Finale Parade.
The festival is open from 6:00am on Sunday and ends at 10:00pm on Monday.
Where is it?

The Notting Hill Carnival parade is scheduled to pass through Notting Hill, North Kensington and Westbourne Green, and Ladbroke Grove.
The parade will also pass through Westbourne Green and North Kensington the parade as it goes along the river by Kensal Road.
There's be loads of food and drink stalls serving tasty food and delicious drinks across the weekend, so you won't go hungry at the carnival!
How do I get there?

The nearest tube stations to Notting Hill Carnival are:
- Holland Park (Central line)
- Notting Hill Gate (Central, Circle and District lines)
- Royal Oak (Circle and Hammersmith & City lines)
- Westbourne Park (Circle and Hammersmith & City lines)
- Ladbroke Grove (Circle and Hammersmith & City lines)
Bus diversions are to be expected, and Santander bike stations will be suspended.
When is the Grenfell tribute?

For the second year in a row, there will be a scheduled 72-second silence at 3:00pm on both days in memory of each of the victims of Grenfell.
Is it free?

Yes, entry to Notting Hill Carnival is free - no tickets required. Just show up and turn up!