Playing Mas at Notting Hill Carnival in London: A First-Timer’s Guide to the Experience
There are some travel experiences you plan for months, and others that you know you have to experience the moment you hear about them.
For me, playing mas at Notting Hill Carnival in London was definitely the latter for their 60th anniversary.
I had been to London before, but this trip felt completely different. I wasn’t just visiting the city or watching Carnival from the sidelines. For the first time, I was stepping into the road, putting on a costume, and becoming part of one of the world’s biggest celebrations of Caribbean culture with over 2 million people.
The History of Notting Hill Carnival
Before I stepped onto the road to play mas at Notting Hill Carnival, I wanted to understand the history behind the celebration. Because Notting Hill Carnival isn't simply a massive street party. Its roots are deeply connected to Caribbean culture, migration, community, racial tension and resistance in Britain.
The story begins with the arrival and growth of the Caribbean community in Britain, particularly during the Windrush era.
When the Empire Windrush arrived in Britain in 1948, it became an important symbol of postwar Caribbean migration. Caribbean music and culture soon became increasingly visible in British cities, including London. Calypso and steelpan were among the cultural traditions that Caribbean immigrants brought with them.
By the 1950s, Notting Hill had become home to a significant Caribbean community, but the neighborhood was also experiencing racial discrimination, poor housing conditions and increasing racial tensions. In May 1959, Kelso Cochrane, a 32-year-old Antiguan carpenter and aspiring lawyer, was murdered in a racially motivated attack in Notting Hill. His death deeply affected the local community and became an important part of the area's history of racial injustice.
In 1966, Rhaune Laslett, local community activist and social worker, organized a children's street party in Notting Hill with the goal of bringing together people from the area's different communities. She invited Trinidadian steelpan musician Russell Henderson and his band to participate.
Sound systems became an important part of Carnival, with the first static sound systems introduced in 1973. Live stages followed, beginning in 1979 and creating platforms for reggae, punk, calypso, soca, hip-hop and other genres.
The Carnival continued to evolve while maintaining its Caribbean foundation.
Today, it features steelpan, calypso, soca, mas bands, sound systems, food, dance and elaborate costumes, bringing together Caribbean communities and people from around the world.
Getting My Costume
One of the most exciting parts of playing mas is choosing your costume. Depending on the band, there can be different sections, colors, styles and costume options. And if you’re anything like me, choosing your section can become a whole decision-making process. Because let's be honest, you want to look GOOD and that, WE DID.
But there’s also a practical side to consider. You’re going to be dancing, walking and moving for hours, so comfort matters. Your costume may look amazing, but you also need to make sure you can actually move in it. Each band will send you notifications for pick up information. We picked up our costumes at the Hilton, at the Shepherd’s Bush tube stop. They do have a Westfield Mall with several places to eat as well. For Pretty Mas, which is that Monday, we played with IslandMasUK and for Dutty Mas, which is that Sunday, we played with WotlessUK.
My advice for first-timers? Choose the costume you love, but think about the full-day experience.
Keep This In Mind Before Playing Mas
If you're considering playing mas for the first time, here are a few things I would definitely keep in mind.
1. Wear comfortable shoes.
This might be the most important advice I can give you.
You are going to be on your feet for HOURS.
Cute shoes are great, but comfortable shoes are better.
2. Stay hydrated.
Between the dancing, walking and crowds, hydration is essential.
Bring water and make sure you're actually drinking it throughout the day.
3. Pack lightly.
You don't want to be carrying a huge bag around while you're trying to dance and move with your band.
Keep your essentials minimal.
4. Protect your phone.
You're going to want pictures and videos, but keep your phone secure.
A crossbody bag, phone strap or another secure option can make a huge difference.
5. Give yourself plenty of time.
Don't underestimate how long it can take to get to your band, meet up with your section and get onto the road.
Build extra time into your morning.
6. Come ready to PARTY.
This isn't the time to be shy.
Once you're on the road, let loose.
Dance. Sing. Jump. Wine.
Enjoy yourself.