The Notting Hill Carnival returns to Notting Hill for 2009 with another massive street festival, bringing music, costumes, dancing, floats and festivities to the streets of West London this summer. Notting Hill and surrounding areas will be transformed into the ultimate street party, promising a lively day out for Londoners of all ages.

A splash of colour
Held annually in August, this truly colourful event features streams of costumed dancers, sound systems, floats and live performances in an ongoing two day parade which sees Londoners and visitors to the capital flocking to Notting Hill. Originating from the Caribbean communities of London, the carnival includes traditional entertainment such as steel bands, costumed parades and plenty of music. Londoners of all ethnic backgrounds come together during the Notting Hill Carnival Parade to party in the streets at what has become one of the biggest events of its kind in the world.Explore Notting Hill
Whilst you’re in the area why not explore a selection of Notting Hill restaurants and bars? A selection of venues will be open during carnival weekend, serving up a variety of food and drink for visitors to enjoy. After a day of partying at the Notting Hill Carnival 2009 revellers can go for a drink or two, followed by something to eat for a full evening out.Bank Holiday Weekend fun
Notting Hill Carnival 2009 takes place over the August Bank Holiday Weekend, with two days of festivities for the crowds to enjoy. Expect serious partying in August, as the streets of Notting Hill spill over with activity in a vibrant carnival atmosphere. Londoners can come together in the spirit of carnival in an uplifting carnival occasion.Notting Hill Carnival 2009
Taking place for the 50th year in 2009, the carnival will feature a selection of special events, performances and attractions, bubbling along to the festival rhythms. Highlights in previous years have included the Grand Carnival Costume Splash, Calypso March contests, Steel Band Championships and exclusive DJ performances, to name a few.

Carnival culture
Londoners can shock out to reggae licks, ragga beats, soca, hip hop and more during two days of outdoor partying. Sound systems will be pumping out carnival tunes throughout the event, guaranteed to keep the party moving wherever you are in Notting Hill. Hundreds of thousands of people regularly attend the carnival each year, making it the largest street festival in Europe. As well as music and dancing, stalls will be selling authentic Caribbean cuisine, with jerk chicken, curries, Jamaican patties and more on the menu.

Olympics Party Screening
As part of the handover for the London 2012 Olympics, a huge party is being held at The Mall on 24th August. But don't worry, you can still go to the Carnival and catch the party, thanks to a huge screen showing all the fun.Children’s Day at Notting Hill Carnival 2009
The first day of the carnival is traditionally for children and families, with the final day open for all to let off some steam. Children and adults alike can expect good times in the sun at what promises to be a memorable summer party.Travel Information
Please note that the following tube stations will encounter some changes during the Carnival.

Holland Park - Exit only from 11am - 7pm
Ladbroke Grove - Closed
Latimer Road - Closes at 11.30pm
Notting Hill Gate - Exit only from 11am - 6pm on Sunday. Circle and District Lines will not stop from 12pm - 7.30pm on Monday.
Royal Oak - Exit only from 11am - 6pm. Closed after 6pm.
Westbourne Park - Exit only from 11am - 6pm. Closes at 11.30pm

The Notting Hill Carnival 2009 takes place from Sunday 30th August – Monday 31st August 2009 in Notting Hill and surrounding areas.

Notting Hill Carnival 2009 is free to attend.