Head for the Carnival

Europe's biggest street carnival - now in its 40th year - kicks off with the National Panorama Championships in Pleasance Park, W10 (Fri 28 Aug, 7pm-midnight).

Pan bands - some with 70-plus players - compete for the coveted Champions Of Steel award. Sun 29 Aug is official Carnival opening and also children's day, with floats and activities.

Mon 30 Aug is the main event, with a Carnival route running around Chepstow Road, Westbourne Grove and Ladbroke Grove, although much of the action is located in side streets. See our Carnival map and guide enclosed.

Notting Hill Carnival, Kensington Park Road, W11 (0870 059 1111). Sun 29 Aug, 10am-7pm, Mon 30 Aug, 10am-9pm, free.