The Notting Hill Carnival has begun in west London, with hundreds of youngsters taking part in the children’s day which traditionally starts the two-day event.
Now in its 48th year, the carnival is the biggest street festival in Europe.
More than a million revellers are expected to take part.
A total of 12,000 police officers will patrol the two-day carnival, which features 40 static sound systems and scores of colourful floats.
Met Police officers have already arrested 27 people as part of a bid to deal with potential troublemakers.
After last year’s festival was marred by the stabbing of a 20-year-old man, officers will be on hand at entrances to the carnival, screening for weapons.
‘Event to remember’
“Well over one million people attend the Notting Hill Carnival every year,” said Met commander Bob Broadhurst.
“Given these huge numbers, crime is low. What we want is for those million people to enjoy the event without worrying about the crime and violence that has been caused by the small minority in the past.”
He warned visitors to be on their guard against pickpockets and thieves who target people for their phones as they use them to search for directions.
“Across London we’ll use specialist officers and technology to make it as hard as possible for those people identified through intelligence to travel about,” said Mr Broadhurst.
“We have been working hard with all the partners involved to support this year’s carnival being an event to remember in this special year for our capital.”