Frequently asked Questions

Q. Who is Hackney Carnival for?

Hackney Carnival is a multi-cultural and intersectional event, it is a celebration for all of Hackney’s communities and beyond. We are welcoming to everyone no matter your race, background sexuality or gender. If you should experience any homophobic, transphobic, racist or other offence please let one of the security or community safety officers who are present know.

Q: What’s happening at Hackney Carnival 2024? What can I expect to see at Hackney Carnival 2024?

Hackney Carnival is going back to its roots on Sunday 22 September 2024 with a family-focused parade, featuring colourful costumes, live music, dance performances, plus a variety of food, wellbeing and craft stalls. The Carnival is a vibrant celebration of the many communities that call Hackney home. Through an immersive, sensory parade, carnival groups - primarily from the Caribbean islands and African, South American and East Asian countries, will fill the route with colour, music and dazzling costumes to honour their rich culture and heritage. 

Q: Where will Hackney Carnival take place? What is the parade route?

A: A Map of the Parade route and other sites can be seen HERE. The parade for this year’s Hackney Carnival will assemble at Mentmore Terrace and proceed up Mare Street, before making its way across Graham Road, down Queensbridge Road, Albion Drive and Lansdown Drive, finishing at London Fields. Check Love Hackney for upcoming details of this year’s programme. You can also stay up to date with announcements on the Hackney Carnival Facebook page (facebook.com/HackneyCarnival) and Instagram channel (@Hackney_Carnival).

Q: Is Hackney Carnival free to attend?

A: Yes. Hackney Carnival is free to attend. Everyone is welcome to join the festivities without any admission charge.

Q: Can I bring my children to the carnival?

A: Hackney Carnival is a family-friendly event with activities and entertainment suitable for all ages, including children. We recommend all children under the age of 16 are accompanied by a responsible adult.

Q: How can I participate in Hackney Carnival? How can I get involved next year?

Applications for registering interest to participate in carnival are currently closed.

Q: Will public restrooms be available?

A: There will be port-a-loos for public use at every site (please see map of sites HERE) across the Carnival, including the Town Hall Square, Tesco Car Park (Food Court) and stage and sound system locations. Many venues will be open and are happy for customers to use their restrooms.

Accessible toilets are also available across the sites and in the Access area outlined below.

Q: Is there an accessible area?

A: There is an accessible viewing area located at the top of Mare street, there is space for ten wheelchair users and their support. It is open for people with various access needs who may prefer a space to watch Carnival that is separated from crowds. An accessible toilet is available within this space. Please note this space is first come, first served and whilst it is a dedicated space it is expected the areas around it will be busy. The site is at 312 Mare St, London E8 1HA, or ///bright.mining.trader on what3words

Q: Will there be road closures during the carnival?

A: Several roads in Hackney will be closed to accommodate the parade and festivities. 17,000 residents and businesses that are most affected by road closures will receive 3 letters with details of this - a full residents page with these letters is HERE. 

Q: Will there be parking suspensions during the carnival?

A: Parking Suspensions will be in place across the Carnival footprint, to accommodate the parade and festivities. 17,000 residents and businesses that are most affected by parking suspension will receive 3 letters with details of this - a full residents page with these letters is HERE. 

Q: What is the situation regarding parking if I want to drive to Hackney for Carnival or otherwise?

A: Parking will be heavily restricted around the parade and carnival sites. We recommend that people planning to attend use public transport. Hackney Central, London Fields and Hackney Downs overground stations are all within walking distance and the sites are on many bus routes.

Q: How will you ensure residents' safety? Will there be adequate police presence? What measures are in place to ensure safety?

A: The council will be working closely with the emergency services and key partners whose support is essential in hosting a safe, family-friendly event. This will include the presence of security personnel, first aid stations, and clear information points. 

Q: As a resident how do I report issues or concerns on the Day of Carnival?

A: Residents can call our HOTLINE number on the day of Carnival ONLY. This is to report concerns, Anti-Social Behaviour or other Carnival related incidents. This is not an information line and should ONLY be used for reporting significant issues that are affecting local residents. The number is 07762 002 129. This number will be operational from 07:00am until 21:00pm

Q: Will there be food and drinks available at the carnival?

A: There will be a variety of food and drink stalls offering a range of cuisines and refreshments. Both local vendors and specialty food trucks will be present. The main food court will be located in the Morning Lane Tesco car park. 

Q: How much will carnival cost? Where is the money coming from?

This year's carnival will cost £1m. This is not money taken from Hackney Council's government settlement and is instead financed through NCIL (Neighbourhood Community Interest Levy). NCIL is money collected by the Council from new capital developments and is used to support community programmes.