CARNIVAL CODE

The Notting Hill Carnival has a simple code – enjoy yourself, stay safe and respect others.

Enjoy...

Jump, sashay and shimmy

Carnival is all about enjoying yourself – prepare to join Europe's largest street party! The sound systems are everywhere – from organised stages to speakers out the front window old school style. Jump to the sounds, sashay to the mas and shimmy at the stages.

First time?

If this is your first time at Carnival then why not come on Children's Day? Children's Day is held on Sunday – there will be less crowds and more room to move.

Plan your travel

Another tip is to keep in mind that performances for Carnival start early – from 10am, so you can arrive and leave early – giving you more time to beat the rush to get home. Plan your travel arrangements, but be flexible.

Stay Safe...

Tell the police if you see an incident

There is a high police presence at the Carnival weekend; you won't miss them if you need to report anything.

Stay with your friends

Unless you want to party by yourself, arrange to meet up with your mates before travelling to the Carnival. The sheer volume of people in Notting Hill means that it will be tricky to meet anywhere along the Carnival route; and remember that some tube stations, bus lines and roads will be closed.

Take care - go with the flow

Try to keep walking in the same direction as the crowd, not against it. The carnival routes are very well managed and there is crowd control in place to keep things smooth, so don't cause waves by trying to force yourself down a one-way street, so to speak.

Look out for your kids

Keep hold of your children and avoid the busiest areas, especially if you have a pushchair. Plan where you will be and where the toilets are on your route!

Give the bands space

Don't get too close to the Carnival floats or run in front of them - they might not be able to stop in time.

Keep your feet on the ground

Don't jump on and off sound systems or live stages and please don't use residents' walls or buildings as vantage points. Not only is the latter very disrespectful, they are also not safe to be used in this way.

Respect...

Stay away if you plan to cause trouble

Carnival is for everyone and should be trouble-free. If you are intent on causing trouble, you will be arrested. Respect others: don't be one of the 1% that ruins Carnival for others.

Respect Carnival

Carnival is the social and artistic expression of freedom, equality and inclusivity, and joining in means we have a responsibility to each other. Share the values of Carnival and show respect towards others.

Respect your hosts - Notting Hill's residents and businesses

Carnival is in the area for just 48 hours, but for thousands of people this is home all year round. Help keep the neighbourhood clean: use the facilities provided and don't turn front gardens into public toilets.

TOP TIPS

  • If you see an unattended bag or package please report it to the nearest Police Officer or member of LNHC's Public Safety team immediately.
  • Arrange to meet friends and family before entering the Carnival area.
  • Have a set meeting place in case you loose family or friends.
  • Ensure arrangements for your return journey before leaving for the Carnival.
  • If you move around the area you may find your return journey easier from another station or bus stop.
  • If you are travelling a short distance it may be easier to walk.
  • Go with the flow of the crowd – don't try to walk against it.
    • Keep aware, pickpockets will be attracted to the large crowds
  • Don't bring your valuables or wear expensive jewellery.
  • Keep your belongings with you at all times.
  • Don't carry too much cash or credit cards.
  • To avoid congestion, arrive and leave early.