After weeks of speculation and uncertainty, the Notting Hill Carnival has finally been given the green light to go ahead. The Carnival will start and end earlier on both days and will have an increased police presence in order to keep revelers safe.
Calls for the cancellation of Europe's biggest street party have been circulating since the London riots and followed concerns from local residents and businesses. During the London riots, rioters targeted businesses in the Notting Hill area: the Ledbury, Walmer Castle, Bumpkin and shoe shop Office were all targeted and attacked.
Christopher Boothman, co-director of the London Notting Hill Carnival Limited (LNHCL) said: "Trouble makers or those who seek to cast a shadow over this vibrant event are not welcome and shouldn't be allowed to spoilt it for thousands of others. We want everyone to come early, enjoy Carnival and get home safely."
The Carnival will be on the bank holiday weekend of 28 - 29 August and will start at 9pm and finish at 7pm on both days. There will also be a lot of travel restrictions in place so check the Transport for London (TfL) website on how to get there and leave safely.
And if those two days of colour, culture and fun aren't enough for you, there is always Notting Hill Carnival the musical to look forward to.
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