Caribbean carnival dazzles in Notting Hill, London
2010-08-31
One of the great joys of Europe travel is taking part in the many festivals that are scheduled in European cities year round. The city of London is one of the leaders in that regard, and the city reminded the world of it by holding it its famous Notting Hill festival over the weekend.
According to the Associated Press, the festival, now Europe's largest street party, dates back to 1959, when Caribbean immigrants started the tradition. Now, the parade has grown into something larger.
"At the core of it, it's still a Caribbean carnival. But obviously it's been in London 40 years so it's changed and there are lots of other influences," carnival director Chris Bootham told AFP. "There's a Brazilian influence, a London influence - many influences which are part of the melting pot we have here in London."
Travelers may have missed out on this years' festivities, but London still has plenty of other events going on all the time. In addition, Notting Hill is a great section of the city to visit even without a festival going on, as the area is home to a number of trendy shops, restaurants and bars.
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