London awash in colour as 1,000,000 descend on Notting Hill Carnival | UK News

One of London’s most famous events is back with around a million people flocking to the Notting Hill Carnival.

Vibrant colours paint the streets of the capital during the annual Caribbean-themed festival.

The festival, which always falls on the August long weekend, kicked off on Sunday with a huge parade in West London.

A march of over three miles took in most of W10, from Westborne Park tube station all the way to Ladbroke Grove.

Thousands of artists show their talent and during the 56th edition the iconic, crazy costumes are on full display.

Everywhere you look you will see flamboyant outfits, while steel bands, sound systems and dancers entertain the audience.

Photos from today’s kid-friendly ‘family day’ show off the best of the incredible range of fashion items.

There was also a special children’s parade, with children dancing through the streets, complete with ‘dutty mas’.

Dutty mas or ‘fun mas’ is the expression used to describe dancers covered in brightly colored paint and powder.

Around two million people are expected to attend the free event over the weekend, which is organised with the help of 40,000 volunteers.

Around 9,000 Met Police officers will also be deployed to help manage the large numbers of revellers.

Matthew Phillip, CEO of Notting Hill Carnival, said: ‘Notting Hill Carnival is a vibrant testament to the power of unity and the celebration of our shared humanity.

‘It is a festival that breaks down barriers, builds bridges and shows the best of our multicultural society.

‘For generations, the United Kingdom has been energised and enriched by the contributions of those who have chosen to make this country their home.

‘From the Windrush generation to the present day, immigrants have been the lifeblood of our economy, the backbone of our public services and the spark for our cultural renaissance.’

He added: ‘The Notting Hill Carnival was born out of the desire of the Caribbean community to combat racial tensions and celebrate their heritage. It has grown into a much-loved national institution, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world.

“It’s a powerful reminder of how diversity strengthens our society and fuels our creativity.”

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