Notting Hill Carnival 2025 What you need to know

The Notting Hill Carnival will celebrate its 57th anniversary from August 23 to 25, 2025, in West London, drawing over two million attendees to experience Europe's largest street party. The parade will showcase a mix of masquerade dancing, soca, calypso, and vibrant sound systems. A significant moment this year will be a 72-second silence to honor the 72 lives lost in the Grenfell Tower fire. In response to safety issues, the police will introduce facial recognition technology to enhance crowd control. The carnival remains free for all, but restrictions may occur in certain areas due to crowd management.

Attendees should arrive early to navigate potential transport closures, particularly at local Tube stations. The weekend will feature various events, including children's activities and live music performances. Planning ahead is crucial for a smooth experience, with advice to avoid driving and to establish meeting points in case of separation.