It’s that time of year again; out come the whistles, costumes and street food wizards for another Notting Hill Carnival . 

“Held each August Bank Holiday since 1966, the Notting Hill Carnival is the largest festival celebration of its kind in Europe;” so whether you like it or hate it, you certainly won’t be able to ignore it. If you’re planning on heading down this weekend, we’ve put together a few insiders tips to help you get the best out of the weekend’s festivities.

There’s a few boring points to consider before we get stuck into the good bits. Travel-wise, it’s worth remembering that there will be some disruptions over the weekend; Ladbroke Grove station will be closed on both Saturday and Sunday, and there will be altered opening and closing times for neighbouring stations like Latimer Road and Royal Oak as well as various diversions through Notting Hill Gate. More details here. And typically, the British weather doesn’t look like it will be on song come the weekend, so bring your brollies!

Now on to the fun stuff!

A festival of London’s multicultural past and present, the Carnival promises an incredible range of music, from reggae and dub to salsa, with steel bands, some of London’s best jerk chicken and fried plantain an absolute must.

The devilishly punctual Time Out London have also provided a trusty little map, with a comprehensive breakdown of what’s going on where; well worth having a glance over…

They’ve also made some really good plans for those hardy Londoners in search of the perfect pre or post-carnival party in the city. You can find out what’s going down here.

Obviously the main action of the day is the Carnival itself. Mrs Hustle has provided a succinct guide to The Nigerian Corner, a raucous party taking place on Monday at Adela Street with a whole host of Nigerian artists ready to crank up the volume and celebrate in style.

Amidst the ringing steel drums and eye-boggling costumes, you can dance your socks off to the Balearic sounds at Sancho Panza or tango at the Latin Rave Street Jam - there is more than plenty to choose from!

From musical taste to edible treats, food is a mainstay of the Carnival; expect plenty of jerk chicken, rice and peas and curried goat. Wash all this down with some fiery ginger beer, Caribbean rum or some coconut milk. There’s a good guide to what you can find at Carnival right here, from the people that know it best.

Will you be going to Carnival this year? Any tips you’d like to share with us? Let us know, here.