It’s back, bigger, brighter, and bolder than ever. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, London’s Notting Hill Carnival returns to us in just a few short weeks, kicking off right down the road from the Amsterdam Hotel in Kensington and Chelsea.

Whether it’s your first time at Europe’s biggest street party, or you’re coming back to us for another year of vibrant, colourful parades, live music, and delicious street food, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s event.

Notting Hill Carnival 2017 Dates

Once again, the annual tradition is scheduled for the August Bank Holiday weekend. This year, Bank Holiday Monday is on August 28th, with Notting Hill Carnival taking place on both the day itself, and the Sunday before, August 27th.

Speaking of which…

Sunday: Children’s Day

By far the most popular day of the Carnival for those staying at our hotel near Notting Hill with family, Sunday sees the return of the much-loved Children’s Day.

Organised as a family-friendly introduction to the two-day extravaganza, Children’s Day is a less high-octane affair than the rambunctious partying of Monday’s grand finale, with a spirited and colourful parade for children taking place throughout the day.

Those of you who are early risers might want to hit the streets of Notting Hill between the hours of 6am – 9AM that day for the customary J’ouvert, a long-established Caribbean tradition in which carnival goers dance through the streets to the sounds of a steel band and douse each other in a vibrant array of powder paints.

Trust us, if you’re up early, the J’ouvert procession is certainly worth checking out.

Monday: Grand Finale Parade

On August Bank Holiday Monday, the streets come alive with a dazzling showcase of colour and sound for the impressive Grand Finale.

Throughout the day, over 60 bands and DJs will keep the music pumping whilst an eclectic cast of dancers and revellers make their way through Notting Hill for the main parade.

Meanwhile, many of the streets and local establishments in Notting Hill, Kensington and Chelsea also plenty of music, entertainment and carnival spirit of their own.

Travelling to the Carnival via Tube and Public Transport

As with every year, no buses enter the Notting Hill Carnival area throughout the duration of the event.

Those travelling by bus are advised to use the service which begins at Notting Hill Gate.

Meanwhile, many tube stations in and around the area are either closed and/or exit only, some for the duration of the event and some between peak hours only.

Organisers also advise that other stations may close temporarily due to overcrowding.

Contacting Transport for London before you arrive is advisable to ensure a smooth and safe journey. The staff here at the Amsterdam Hotel can also advise you about the best way to travel on the day.

Booking a Hotel near Notting Hill Carnival 2017: Limited Availability Remaining

As one of the most popular events of the summer, Notting Hill Carnival is expected to attract scores of people from across the UK and beyond, meaning local hotel accommodation is already in high demand.

Fortunately, here at the Amsterdam Hotel, we do still have limited availability for our luxury hotel suites throughout August Bank Holiday Weekend.

Based next to Earls Court Station, just 16 minutes away from the carnival site, we offer a range of affordable accommodation perfect for getting a good night’s sleep after dancing the day away at Europe’s biggest street party.

To book your hotel for Notting Hill Carnival 2017, call the Amsterdam Hotel on 020 7370 5084, or see our website for our latest special offers.