One of the proudest things about being a Londoner? Playing host to the second-biggest street festival in the world, Notting Hill Carnival, now in its sixth decade and with a million revellers…
As for us QPers and Risers, we get one better, we get to say it’s down the road from us. Unite on the streets for the two greatest things in life: music and food. Let’s show that we can take to the tarmac to do something other than riot.
Find music for every taste, samba to soca, reggae to drum ‘n’ bass, with 40 sound systems to choose from (though Norman Jay and Good Times will be sorely missed) and feast on authentic, lip-smacking jerk chicken and curry goat.
I spoke to a friend recently who’s a true carnival veteran, having been every year of life: “even in the womb!” and asked what tips she could give any first time carnivalees (Not a word? Should be.). “Wear the right footwear!” was the immediate response. I won’t name and shame but I have seen a carnival attempt in UGGs. Along with “Hold onto your friends. Tight.” – we’ve perfected the weaving line through crowds damn well over the years. Plus make sure you agree on a meeting point, just in case.
Need the dummy’s guide details?
– Carnival this year is Sunday 28 August and Bank Holiday Monday 29 August.
– Sunday is Kids’ Day and the main parade takes place on the Monday
– The parade begins at 9am, both days
– The parade starts on Great Western Road, winds its way along Chepstow Road, onto Westbourne Grove, and then to Ladbroke Grove
– The costumes are freakin’ fab
This year, many of our local joints are throwing after parties. You’re a little spoilt for choice…
Join Ms Dynamite at The Paradise Sunday night, the Alice House* is throwing a three-day party weekend from Friday till Sunday, with late licences and DJs.
Plus popcorn-sharing The Regent are throwing after parties, which you can find out about here. And The Garden Party Presents: The Snowbombing 2 Day Carnival Party at the Masons both days. Booyakasha.
Here’s a handy map of both the parade route and soundsystems courtesy of Time Out.
Be assured I’ll be digging out my whistle and digging into some plantain…
*For group bookings of six people or more, bagsy a free teapot cocktail punch when booking at qp@alicehouse.co.uk and quoting the reference ‘Alice Goes Carnival’.
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