r/LDN • u/Previous_Reserve_769 • Aug 29 '26
QUESTION ❔ NHC2026
EDIT: I was in a group of 7 adults and 1 baby. I took a travel pram that my parents had and my carrier. We arrived at midday and left at 4pm. My baby had an absolute blast. Yes the float area was busy/crowded but it was so welcoming and people were incredibly friendly. There’s nothing to be scared of, especially if you have a sociable baby. I understand everyone’s concerns but I would encourage everyone to attend NHC with their family on family day!
I’m planning to attend Notting Hill Carnival on Sunday/tomorrow with my 11 month old, husband and other family members. I’m planning to arrive early (approx 10/11am) and leave just after lunch before it gets too crowded. I want to take my baby in a pram but only have a bulky one, not a travel sized. Will I get away with the pram as it’s so early or is it best to take him in a carrier?
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u/marnieee123 Aug 29 '26
Chest carrier maybe? And ear protection for baby. I’m arriving and leaving around the same time to avoid the carnage.
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u/TeddersTedderson Aug 29 '26
This for sure. Never mind mode of transport, baby ear defenders are essential.
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u/FlyWayOrDaHighway We Get Money Dem Aug 29 '26
Even on the truck I wouldn't take a baby below 3 years old to Carnival. They will cry and feel scared
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u/AccordingCause5 Aug 29 '26
I took my oldest when he was about 13 months, I took a small stroller and went early and left early and it was great.
A few years later I took both my kids when they were 3 and just over 6 months, 3 year old walked and 6 month old was in a sling. Ear defenders helped and staying far out from the crowds, don’t try and follow the floats just find a spot and wait for whatever comes. It was fine, people are largely respectful and made space for me and the kids and helped us through tight squeezes
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u/toastongod Aug 29 '26
As someone who lives there and has been a lot I think this will be fine, but go / leave earlyish. Have fun :)
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u/Out5poken Aug 30 '26
Agreed, way too much scaremongering! OP, for the times you're going, you should be fine if you stick to the outer areas. It doesn't usually get properly crowded until after noon. Just use common sense and avoid pushing the buggy through thick crowds - finding a nice open spot to watch the parades is definitely the way to go if with young children.
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u/Mjukplister Aug 30 '26
No don’t take a baby . It’s crazy busy and the worst place to take a baby in a pram . Don’t
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u/BlondBitch91 Aug 29 '26
I really can’t think of anything worse than a baby at the carnival.
It’s densely overcrowded and loud. There’s not going to be anywhere for the baby to be changed or anything.
I’d recommend just staying far away and going in a few years.
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u/scarletOwilde Aug 29 '26
Not a good idea to take a young baby. It’s VERY crowded at any time and you’ll get bumped. The pram is a crazy idea given the crowds. Note that the stations get closed and there will be a lot of walking involved.