Notting Hill Carnival: A Celebration of Love and Culture

A Notting Hill Carnival attendee, Sheyi Martins-Allen, 36, shared her cherished memories of the event, highlighting its significance in her life. She met her husband, Simon, 39, at an after-party on August 26, 2012, where they bonded over their shared experiences in London. Sheyi described their meeting as a “twist of fate,” noting that while she was a regular at the carnival, Simon was new to the experience, having been encouraged by friends to attend. The couple married in 2015 and now have two children, Isabella, 5, and Noah, nearly 5 months old. They introduced Isabella to the carnival on August 28, 2022, marking her first visit to the event. Sheyi expressed her joy at seeing her daughter excited about the carnival, a tradition that has been a significant part of their family history. Since then, Isabella has attended the carnival each year, growing to appreciate its cultural importance. Reflecting on her own childhood, Sheyi recalled attending the carnival's children's day annually, except during the pandemic and her pregnancy. Her first experience at the carnival, at age 10, left a lasting impression, filled with vibrant dancing, music, and food. Sheyi emphasized the carnival's role in celebrating Black culture and its importance as a gathering place for friends, particularly those unfamiliar with British traditions. Overall, Sheyi's story encapsulates the Notting Hill Carnival as a vibrant celebration of culture, love, and family memories.