Notting Hill Carnival 2025: Our Reflections from the Heart of the Music

This August Bank Holiday, we were lucky enough to be right there in the thick of Notting Hill Carnival 2025 and wow, what a weekend it was.
From the ringing steel pans at Panorama on Saturday night, to the sunrise chaos of J’ouvert with paint and powder everywhere, Carnival reminded us why it’s so special.

Sunday’s Children’s Parade was pure joy, little ones in handcrafted costumes dancing proudly to the rhythms of their parents’ culture.

And then Monday… the big one. Costumes glittering in the sun, sound systems shaking Ladbroke Grove and live bands spreading soca, reggae and dancehall across the city.

Seeing Usain Bolt there for his first Carnival made us smile and we couldn’t agree more with his words that moving or ticketing it would “kill it off”.

Behind the Music

Of course, Carnival isn’t without its challenges.

• Police presence was heavy this year, with facial recognition cameras making many people uncomfortable. We understand the need for safety, but tech can’t replace trust.

• Stallholders told us how hard it’s been with food costs soaring. Fewer jerk stands and doubles vendors meant fewer chances to taste the true flavours of Carnival.

• Funding nearly fell through again, saved only by a last-minute council grant. For an event that means so much to London, that just doesn’t feel right.

What About the Media?

There’s been lots of talk in recent years about the press at Carnival from charging fees to debates over coverage. For us, Carnival’s story should always be told by and for the community first. The sound systems, the mas bands, the pan yards these are the voices that matter most.

Our Takeaway

For us as a music studio, Carnival is a reminder of why we do what we do. It’s living proof that music connects people, lifts spirits and carries culture across generations.

• We want Carnival to be supported year round, not just patched up last-minute.

• We want safety, but not at the cost of freedom and trust.

• Most of all, we want to keep hearing those drums, pans, horns and basslines roll through west London for decades to come.

Until Next Year…

Carnival 2025 was unforgettable. Yes, it faces challenges but standing there, surrounded by rhythm, colour and togetherness, it was clear: the spirit of Carnival is stronger than any obstacle.

And for us, it’s a privilege to be part of that soundtrack.