David Hoffman | Notting Hill Carnival, 1979

Notting Hill Carnival is one of the world’s largest and most famous street carnivals. The carnival was established in response to the Notting Hill Race Riots of 1958, where racially motivated clashes occurred between white working-class groups and the newly settled Afro-Caribbean community. It is now a British institution and has evolved into a vibrant and colourful celebration of music, dance, food, and diverse cultural traditions. The Carnival attracts participants and spectators from around the world and has become an integral part of London’s cultural calendar, reflecting the city’s rich diversity.

Over forty years ago, photographer David Hoffman captured the carnival in full swing. It was a year when tensions were high. Just three years earlier, during the hot summer of 1976, riots broke out at the carnival, and a heavy police presence remained in place until the end of the decade. Despite the trouble, David still managed to capture the colourful scenes and mostly positive carnival atmosphere—a spirit that continues to unite generations of people coming together to celebrate culture and diversity.