London’s second biggest carnival is set to return after a five-year gap.
Hackney Carnival last took place in 2019, before disruption due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the late Queen’s death and council budget constraints cancelled the event in subsequent years.
But the now carnival - which normally takes place every other year - will return to the streets of Hackney this Sunday (September 22).
Starting in Mare Street, a family parade will take dancers and musicians through Graham Road, Queensbridge Road, Albion Drive and Lansdowne Drive, before ending in London Fields.
More than 30 carnival groups, including 17 local bands will take part in the celebration, led by artistic director Pax Nindi.
A sound system set up outside the Town Hall will play drum and bass music, with steel pan performers taking up position in Queensbridge Road.
Hackney Carnival is the second biggest in London, attracting up to 80,000 people.
Artistic director Pax Nindi said: “I'm excited to bring more family-friendly colour, community spirit, and inclusivity to the borough again this year.
“Hackney Carnival is a celebration that embraces everyone, regardless of their background, and I'm honoured to be a part of it once more.”
The event will run from 11am to 7pm, with the parade finishing at around 5pm.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here