A sound system is a highly amplified mobile setup, often named and operated by a skilled team.
Rooted in Jamaican culture and reggae music, sound systems were first introduced to Notting Hill Carnival in 1973.
Today, over 30 static sound systems cater to a wide range of musical tastes, including Dub, Rare Groove, House, Jungle, Samba, Blues, and Hip Hop.
The sound systems kicked off at midday and will continue until 7pm.
The Notting Hill Carnival parade is open to everyone and free to attend. However, if you wish to participate in the parade itself, you must be part of an authorised group or pay to join the procession.
For those looking to extend the celebrations into the evening, tickets are available for numerous afterparties happening throughout the city.
Arsenal midfielder Jorginho was spotted by football fans while attempting to keep a low profile at Notting Hill Carnival. Dressed in a baseball cap and hoodie, he tried to blend in with the crowd.
A clip of the sighting was shared on social media with the caption: "Instead of Jorginho to be cooling his head at home he's at carni."
For those heading to the Carnival, the best stations to use are Paddington, which serves the Bakerloo, Hammersmith & City, District, Circle, and Elizabeth lines, or Shepherd’s Bush, which serves the Central Line and Overground.
The following stations are closed or partially closed:
The carnival kicked off this morning at 10:30 am, with the massive sound stage set to begin at midday. Today features the family and children's parade, with around one million people expected to descend on the event.