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Notting Hill Carnival marks 60 years of Caribbean culture and community

London's landmark Carnival is celebrating its Diamond Jubilee with a year-long programme and a weekend expected to draw around two million people.

By THE TEA · 31 August 2026

Notting Hill Carnival marks 60 years of Caribbean culture and community Image: ITV NewsOriginal source

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Notting Hill Carnival is celebrating 60 years as one of Britain's biggest expressions of Caribbean culture, creativity and community.

The 2026 Diamond Jubilee has been marked by exhibitions, talks and community initiatives throughout the year, culminating in the August bank holiday Carnival weekend. Around two million people are expected to attend.

The celebrations began with Panorama, the UK National Steelband Competition, followed by family and children's celebrations and the main adult parade. Mas bands, sound systems, live stages, food and generations of performers fill the streets.

The anniversary also recognises the people who built and sustained Carnival. Its roots are closely tied to London's Caribbean community and the cultural legacy of the Windrush generation.

A £60,000 community support fund has also helped participants take part in this year's celebrations, investing in the people who keep the tradition moving forward.