Notting Hill Carnival

Taking place since 1965, The Notting Hill Carnival is now the World's second largest street festival with attendance figures for 2007 hitting the 2 million mark. The festival was originally set up by members of the West Indian community, many of whom have been locals to the area since the 50s and so there is a rich Caribbean theme.

Split over the Sunday and Monday Bank Holiday, Sunday's Carnival is dubbed as "Children's Day" and has a far greater emphasis on family. For those not familiar with London, it may be a good idea to aim to attend the Carnival on Sunday as crowds will not be as dense.

Music is at the epicentre of the Carnival, with an eclectic mix of Reggae, Dub, Steel Bands, Soca, Calypso and Funk filling the air with sound systems literally everywhere!

Live stages feature a range of acts from local bands and community choirs to top international acts.

The Parade itself takes a route three miles long through Notting Hill's major streets, with floats and groups from all around the world. Many of those taking part will have spent months making their elaborate and colourful costumes and the result is a spectactular sight.

For the complete experience, make sure you try some of the Caribbean food, which are in abundance!

Everyone should pay attention to advice from Police and organisers, especially with regards to travel plans, as nearby tube stations are likely to be either closed or running a skeleton service. General common sense should apply given the huge amount of people in a relatively small area of London