Caribbean Takeover at the National Maritime Museum

Suitable for all ages

Essential information

Type	Events and festivals
Location	National Maritime Museum Queen's House
Date and times	Saturday 25 July 2026 \| 10am-5pm
Prices	Free

Our long-term friends at the Caribbean Social Forum are back with a vibrant, family-friendly celebration at Royal Museums Greenwich!

This year we're proudly celebrating the fifth anniversary of Caribbean Takeover. Over the past five years, we’ve grown into a vibrant platform that champions Caribbean culture, education, music and community, bringing people together through unforgettable experiences.

We’re also honouring the 60th anniversary of Notting Hill Carnival, recognising its enduring legacy and cultural impact.

All are welcome – come and immerse yourself in the spirit of the Caribbean and be part of a celebration like no other.

A full event programme and more details are to be announced – stay tuned!

Event highlights

Two people dance in front of a statue of a ship inside a glass bottle

Image: Jonny Guardiani

Welcome ceremony

The day will begin with a welcome ceremony led by the Caribbean Social Forum on the Ocean Map at the National Maritime Museum, opening the event and introducing the programme of activities.

Live performances and music

Throughout the day, visitors will encounter live performances across Royal Museums Greenwich, including African drumming, steel pan music, calypso dance and limbo, bringing Caribbean musical traditions to life.

Talks and discussions

A programme of talks and discussions will take place in both the National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House, featuring historians, writers and cultural practitioners exploring Caribbean history, heritage and contemporary culture.

Film screening and Q&A

Visitors can attend a screening of Milestone: Streets Paved with Gold, adapted from Victor Richards' acclaimed one-man theatre play. This will be followed by a Q&A session offering further insight into Caribbean-British experiences.

A woman looks at the dominoes she is holding in her hand during a game

Family activities and educational workshops

A range of hands-on workshops and activities will be available for families, including carnival headwear making, fibre and textile workshops and participatory folk song sessions celebrating Caribbean musical traditions.

Roaming entertainment

Visitors will encounter a range of roaming performances and activities throughout the day, including a magician, caricature artist and Walking Images, where costumed performers bring historical Caribbean and Black British figures to life through interactive encounters across the Museum.

Games and interactives

Interactive activities such as dominoes and other games will take place alongside community-led displays and remembrance installations curated by the Caribbean Social Forum.