What To Do At Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival is an event we look forward to all year round, as this huge street party has the entire city dancing and celebrating together. Whether you’ve never been before or you never miss it each year, here’s a quick guide to what you should do on the day.

Dance To Afro Caribbean Music

Notting Hill Carnival is not Europe’s biggest street party for nothing. During the days that it lasts the streets are full of music, with parties in every pub and floats with bands and musicians parading down the street, making the entire area a huge party vanue. Whether you want to follow the parade or you have a favourite spot, dancing is pretty much a given for the entire day. Wear comfy shoes and as little clothes as possible so you are free to move.

Eat Caribbean Specialties

You are going to be hungry with all the dancing, but fear not. You will find street vendors around every corner selling jerk chicken, curry goat, fried plantain and corn on the cob. They are all delicious but some can be quite spicy so make sure you ask before you buy.

Drink In The Street

If you think drinking in the middle if the road is fun you’re in luck. Since this is all a huge party you can drink wherever you want, so think of the streets like a huge beer garden. Speaking about beer, try the Guinness punch if you get the chance. Alternatively, stop by the supermarket before you go and stock up on pints. The local supermarkets will be selling out of their alcohol pretty quickly so keep that in mind and get yours early.

Dress To Impress

Since this is a carnival, it’s a great opportunity to go all out. To fit more with the theme think less animal onesies and more bright colours, shorts and big statement jewellery. Neon face paints are also a good addition and colourful hair spray will complete your look and help you stand out. Just make sure everything is sweat proof because you will be dancing all day.

Take Lots Of Photos

With all these amazing things to see and do at the carnival you’ll want to take lots of photos to remember it later. Make sure you do that early on so you can put the camera away when people start getting drunk and things get a bit more wild. And, as always, be aware of your possessions and avoid putting them down on the ground, so that you don’t lose anything on the day.

Feel like joining in the fun? Citysocializer always has people going to the carnival so join in to meet some new people, make friends and have a big group with you on the day.