Notting Hill Carnival marks 60 years with thousands attending

Thousands of people participated in the 60th anniversary of the Notting Hill Carnival, Europe's largest street party, which took place in west London over the weekend. The annual celebration of Caribbean culture featured a vibrant display of mas bands, steel pan bands, dancers, and sound systems.

Revellers enjoyed music from over 50 sound systems playing genres including samba, house, and reggae. Soca music, a blend of American soul and Caribbean rhythms, was identified as the most popular genre among attendees. The event saw thousands of children take part in a family parade, adorned in colourful carnival attire.

Grenfell Silence Disrupted

A planned 72-second silence intended to commemorate the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire was disrupted on Sunday afternoon. As a float passed the North Kensington Fire station at 3pm, its music was still playing. Firefighters were observed reacting with disbelief. The MC on the float eventually noticed the oversight and issued an apology to the crowd.

Event Details and Fire Incident

The carnival's first day included a Steel Band Competition on Saturday. Sunday's festivities began with the J'ouvert opening celebration at Ladbroke Grove, followed by Children's Day and the Dutty Mas parade starting at Westbourne Park. Calypso, samba reggae, and soca music continued until 7pm, with the Adult's Day parade scheduled to mark the peak of the carnival.

Separately, a van caught fire near Pembridge Villas, an area adjacent to the carnival festivities. The London Fire Brigade responded to the incident, dispatching four fire engines and approximately 25 firefighters to the scene.

Police and Arrest Information

The Metropolitan Police have not yet released any details regarding arrests made during the carnival weekend. The event, which originated 60 years ago in response to racial injustice, continued with dancing and celebrations late into the evening.