Billed as one of the best carnivals on the planet, the gigantic Notting Hill Carnival, which is held annually in the vibrant streets of London, attracted scores of people from across the globe into the UK’s capital to celebrate cultural diversity, music, dance, and unity.
It’s a spectacular event that draws people from all corners of the world, turning the streets of Notting Hill into a colourful and rhythmic mosaic of Caribbean culture.
The carnival which is a well-loved event began at 10 am on Sunday 27 August and 10.30am on bank holiday Monday 28 August.
Over the course of those two days, this carnival transforms the area into a bustling festival ground where thousands come together to enjoy music, dance, food, and a sense of community.
Over the course of two days, this carnival transforms the area into a bustling festival ground where thousands come together to enjoy music, dance, food, and a sense of community.
The Notting Hill Carnival takes place annually on the August Bank Holiday weekend.
The event is primarily cantered around the Notting Hill area in West London. The main parade route covers iconic streets like Westbourne Park Road, Notting Hill Gate, and Ladbroke Grove.
These streets, known for their beautiful Victorian townhouses, provide a stunning backdrop to the vibrant celebrations.
The streets were lined with food stalls offering an array of mouthwatering Caribbean cuisine.
From jerk chicken to patties, roti, and seafood, there’s something for everyone.
These culinary delights provide a delicious window into the diverse Flavours of the Caribbean.
This year, the carnival was organised by thousands of volunteers, attracted about two million attendees with heavy police presence.
The horseback police units were visible particularly in the parade and other streets, keeping law and order. Where at sometimes they try to chase after groups in the crowds.
While the festival was a joyful time for many, isolated incidents of violence have occurred.
The head of the metropolitan Sir Mark Rowley police said that most people have had a “fantastic time”. He also confirmed violent incidents done by small number of very dangerous people.
The organiser of the festival has said they “deplore all acts of violence” as reports show stabbings and knife attacks at the festival.
As a result, the police have made a total of 275 arrests for range acts of violence, including stabbing, possession of offensive weapons, assaults, sexual offenses, and drugs.
Police confirm most of the arrests made during the second day of the festival, Monday, which is mainly an adult’s day.
Videos shared in the social media show group of young people with knives and machetes, carelessly waving and running in the crowds.
“People had a fantastic time”
Sir Mark Rowley
Head of Metropolitan Police
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