Notting Hill Carnival 2020 officially cancelled with plans to move it online

Ready the tissues, Notting Hill Carnival has now been cancelled due to the pandemic


Carnival organisers announced on the 7th of May that Notting Hill Carnival 2020 would be cancelled due to coronavirus. The event was due to take place on the 30th and 31st of August. The carnival has run for over 50 years and has never been cancelled until now.

The organisers stated: “Everyone’s health has to come first. Cancellation was the only safe option.” In response to the virus they have planned alternative celebrations that permit social distancing. “We hope it will bring the Carnival spirit to people from the safety of their homes, and make them feel connected and engaged.”

The event normally attracts one million people in West London and has been held annually since 1966. It is known for being such a vibrant celebration of diversity in the city.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan spoke out expressing his sadness: “It is a great shame that Notting Hill Carnival will not be celebrated on our streets this year, but the board has made the right decision to change the formate of this year’s event for the good of everyone’s health”

Organisers made it clear they did not want to put any strain on St John’s Ambulance or the NHS by going ahead with the event. Also they recognise the nature of the global pandemic expressing their concerns about the event going ahead considering current social distancing measures.

People have taken to Twitter expressing their disappointment at the cancellation of the event.

Absolutely gutting to be honest. See you in 2021, Carni.