Published: Tuesday 19 August 2025
Have you ever wondered about the work that goes in to supporting a successful, safe and spectacular Notting Hill Carnival?
Ahead of the event returning to the streets of North Kensington this August bank holiday, we took a look at the facts and figures behind the world-famous festival.
Many Kensington and Chelsea Council officers have been involved in planning this year’s Carnival since the day after last year’s event, and more than 100 staff will be on duty over the weekend to manage road closures, enforce parking restrictions and maintain public safety.
Our licensing team have granted licenses to more than 250 street traders and approved more than 40 temporary event notices.
With the weather due to be good over the Carnival weekend, visitors will be able to stay hydrated by making use of the four public drinking water units located across the event’s footprint.
When nature calls, we’ve set up more than 600 compostable, chemical-free and water-free toilets.
The sights and sounds of Carnival will be provided by no fewer than 36 sound systems, 48 mas bands, 15 steel bands and eight Brazilian bands.
Public safety is our priority over the weekend, and the Council recently confirmed an additional £232,000 in grant funding to support Notting Hill Carnival Limited in its preparations. For the second year running, Carnival will feature a Youth Safe Zone in Athlone Gardens for under-19s, while St John’s Ambulance will also be on duty at six dedicated first aid centres.
The crowds and noise of Carnival are not for everyone, so we’ve worked with Age UK to once again offer a fully-funded weekend trip to the seaside for 21 older residents living on the parade route.
Finally, the event’s unsung heroes are the more than 180 refuse workers who man 45 vehicles and expect to clear more than 300 tonnes of rubbish from the streets overnight after each day of Carnival.
Cllr Kim Taylor-Smith, Lead Member for Employment, Culture and the Economy, said:
“The scale of the numbers behind Notting Hill Carnival highlights the extraordinary effort that goes into staging this fantastic event.
“From the officers planning all year round to the crews working through the night to clear our streets, so many people give their time, energy and dedication to make Carnival happen.
“I want to thank everyone involved and I look forward to a successful, safe and spectacular Carnival.”
For more information about carnival, visit the Council’s dedicated hub.