Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival


Hello everyone, I’m part of the Windrush generation, when thousands of Jamaicans (my parents included) came to Britain to seek better opportunities for themselves and their families, so I’m proud to be British-Jamaican.

About Notting Hill Carnival


Notting Hill Carnival (27-29 August) – is celebrated every year in this eclectic part of London – is one of the most important dates in my summer calendar. A riot of colour and flavour and music, it reminds me of the joyous and flamboyant celebrations back home, and I can’t help but get excited! I’ll be going along to the event with my family – to eat, drink and dance – but if I don’t see you there, don’t worry. Thankfully, you can recreate all the fun of the weekend-long carnival from the comfort of home with my exotic Caribbean cuisine – from Green Plantain Chips to Jerk Chicken Patties and Tinned Ackee – all washed down with plenty of Don Wilfred Rum, of course. Sure to make it easy to host a soirée with friends, family and neighbours!

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Celebrate Notting Hill Carnival


Why not get adventurous and cook up a storm in the kitchen, whether Oven-Baked Jerk Chicken, Coconut Rice & Peas or Goat Curry? Remember, you don’t have to do everything yourself: make like a true Jamaican and ask loved ones to each bring a dish – just point them in the direction of my shop to gather all the ingredients!

Don’t forget to stock up on drinks, either: Square Root Ginger Beer, Easton IPA and Armas de Guerra Rosado 2019 mean everyone’s covered!

Frequently Asked Questions


  • Notting Hill Carnival is one of the largest street festivals in Europe, celebrating Caribbean culture, community, and creativity. It began in the 1960s as a response to racial tensions and has grown into a vibrant celebration of joy, freedom, and heritage—complete with music, costumes, and irresistible food.

  • Absolutely not. Carnival is for everyone. It’s about unity, inclusion, and celebration. Whether you’re Black, white, or somewhere in between, if you’re dancing with respect and joy—you’re part of it.

  • It’s easy! Cook up some traditional dishes—jerk chicken, rice & peas, patties, green plantains—and don’t forget the rum punch. Ask friends to bring a dish, put on your best reggae and soca playlist, and get dressed up. Make it colourful. Make it loud. Make it yours.

  • The roots of Carnival in the UK are deeply tied to the Windrush generation—Caribbean migrants like my parents who brought music, dance, and food with them when they arrived in Britain. Carnival is a celebration of their resilience and culture.

  • Anything bold, bright, and joyful! Feathers, sequins, or your favourite cultural prints. Or get creative and make your own look. At home, encourage a costume contest—it’s all part of the fun.

  • If it’s spicy, it needs something cold! I love pairing my dishes with Square Root Ginger Beer, a splash of Don Wilfred Rum, or even a chilled Easton IPA. And if you're feeling fancy, pour a glass of Armas de Guerra Rosado and toast to good vibes.

Finally...


What would carnival be without a costume or two? Ask everyone to come in fancy dress – and award a prize to the best-dressed on the day! I’m already thinking about dusting off my flamenco outfits… Share your pictures with us on social enjoying carnival at home. Have a great weekend.