Notting Hill Carnival

The first outdoor Caribbean festival took place in the streets of Notting Hill in 1966. Rhaune Laslett - a Londoner of Native American and Russian desecent - was a social worker and local resident of the area who organised the event for local children. Rhaune would invite well-known pan player Ruseell Henderson, along with band members Sterling Betancourt, Vernon "Fellows" Williams, Fitzroy Coleman and Ralph Cherry. The Band weaved its way through Portobello Road, with locals dancing and singing to the sound of the pan. The band's popularity amongst the Caribbean community drew many local residents to attend, successfully achieving Laslett's vision of an multi-cultural outdoor celebration. It was in this moment that the first Notting Hill Carnival was born. Below you will find images captured by Kel-Harry Nsowah at Notting Hill Carnival 2023, a festival still proudly celebrated 57 years later! INSTAGRAM: @LETKELCOOK