Published: Friday 18 June 2021
Organisers of the Notting Hill Carnival have decided to move the event off the streets for a second year after extensive consultation with partners.
They are again working towards an alternate Notting Hill Carnival for 2021 that will deliver the Carnival spirit to people from the safety of their homes. You can read the full statement from Notting Hill Carnival organisors on Twitter.
The Council has welcomed this difficult decision, which takes into account the potential impact on public health of large crowds gathering in close proximity, raising a significant risk to those attending and the local community itself.
Cllr Emma Will, Kensington and Chelsea Council lead member for culture, leisure and community safety, said:
“Although this comes as a disappointment, we completely support the Notting Hill Carnival organiser’s decision to move Carnival online once again.
“This was no easy decision to make but the latest updates from the Government suggest that the ongoing risks due to Covid-19 are too high to put on an in-person celebration this year.
"Health and safety remain a top priority for us and it is important that we look after the wellbeing of our residents and visitors. We still plan to celebrate this momentous event with virtual activities to take place over the Carnival bank holiday weekend.
“We are committed to supporting this celebration and making it as fun, magical and as safe as possible. We will be working with relevant partners such as the Met, TfL, and more to ensure that this bank holiday weekend passes safely and the virtual Carnival alternative is enjoyed.”
The Council will be working with organisers to find other ways to mark the annual event. The Council is absolutely committed to supporting Carnival, the communities and businesses it inspires and hopes to be working with organisers to plan a spectacular event for 2022.