About Notting Hill Carnival

 Held each August Bank Holiday since 1966, Notting Hill Carnival is the largest celebration of its kind in Europe.

This carnival attracts millions of visitors from around the world. This is probably London´s most exciting annual event.

The Music

The music played is varied, from static sound systems playing anything from Reggae to R&B, Funk, House, Dub and much more. Live stages also feature local bands, top international artists and sounds from around the world.

The Parade

Bright and outlandish costumes, imaginative floats and dances are on the streets. The Carnival parade winds through three miles of Notting Hill´s major streets. A parade takes place on each day of Carnival- on Sunday the Children's Day parade is less spectacular but also less crowded while Monday is traditionally main parade day - with groups from as far afield as South America, Africa and, of course, the Caribbean bringing music, dance and costume to the area in spectacular style.

The Costumes

For months in advance groups taking part in this year's event will have been working on intricate costumes; designing, making patterns, sewing, gluing and painting.  Some of these groups will be professional costume makers, others community projects with little or no experience but plenty of enthusiasm. 

The Food
 Food is varied as well. , Notting Hill Carnival provides the perfect introduction to jerk chicken, rice and peas and rum punch as well as the odd taste of other exotic cuisines.

1 When does the Carnival take place?
2 What can you see in this festival?
3 What kind of music can you listen to?
4 What is the meaning of "Parade"?
5 When does a parade take place?
6 When is the main parade?
7 Who makes the costumes?
8 What typical food do people eat at Carnival?