Notting Hill Carnival Opens With J Ouvert Amid Tight Security

Notting Hill Carnival opened in West London at sunrise with J Ouvert celebrations and a family-focused schedule that culminates in the main parade on Monday. Organisers expect about a million people to fill the streets across three miles of route, while the Met Police deploy around 7,000 officers over the weekend to manage the crowds and deter serious violence. Enhanced security measures, including screening arches and live facial recognition at key entry points, are in place, and a 72-second silence is observed at 3pm on both Sunday and Monday to remember Grenfell Tower victims and others affected by tragedy at the event.

J Ouvert, the daybreak opening of the carnival, set the tone with revelers splashing paint, powder and chocolate as they moved through the streets ahead of the official afternoon kickoff. Traditions such as Jab Jab, where participants adorn themselves with black oil, tar or paint, horns and chains, were on display as people celebrated Caribbean culture and history. Children’s Day activities are scheduled for Sunday, followed by the adults’ parade on Monday, when the crowds typically surge and the costumes reach their most vibrant display.