Caribbean Takeover at National Maritime Museum: Fifth Anniversary Celebration

June 8, 2026

South London News Culture Desk Edited By Jimmy Nsubuga

South London is set to host a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture as the Caribbean Takeover returns to the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich this July. This free, family-friendly event, now in its fifth year, champions Caribbean heritage, education, music, and community, bringing people together for an unforgettable experience. It also proudly honours the 60th anniversary of Notting Hill Carnival, recognising its enduring legacy and cultural impact on Britain.

What you need to know

The Caribbean Takeover promises a day filled with immersive activities for all ages. The event is organised by the Caribbean Social Forum, a non-profit organisation established in 2015 by "matured children" of the Windrush Generation.

Venue: Royal Museums Greenwich (National Maritime Museum and Queen's House)

Location: Greenwich

Dates / Run: Saturday 25 July 2026, 10am–5pm

Key Creatives: Caribbean Social Forum (organisers), Victor Richards (film writer/star)

The production

The day begins with a welcome ceremony led by the Caribbean Social Forum on the Ocean Map at the National Maritime Museum, setting the stage for a packed programme. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy live performances across Royal Museums Greenwich, including African drumming, steel pan music, calypso dance, and limbo. 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 and contemporary culture.

A highlight is the film screening of Milestone: Streets Paved with Gold, adapted from Victor Richards' acclaimed one-man play. This powerful film honours the Windrush generation and the Caribbean migration experience in Britain, followed by a Q&A session with Victor Richards himself. Families can engage in hands-on workshops, such as carnival headwear making, fibre and textile workshops, and participatory folk song sessions. Roaming entertainment, including a magician, caricature artist, and "Walking Images" performers bringing historical figures to life, will add to the festive atmosphere. Interactive games like dominoes and community-led displays curated by the Caribbean Social Forum will also be available.

Why it matters locally

This annual event is a cornerstone for celebrating and preserving Caribbean culture within South London. The Caribbean Social Forum, with over 600 members aged 50 and above, works to combat isolation and foster community spirit, ensuring that the rich traditions and experiences of the Caribbean diaspora are shared and celebrated. By marking its fifth anniversary and the 60th anniversary of Notting Hill Carnival, the Caribbean Takeover reinforces Greenwich's role as a hub for cultural exchange and community engagement. The event provides a vital platform for education and connection, bringing a "taste of the Caribbean" to local residents and visitors alike.

Planning your visit

Entry to the Caribbean Takeover at the National Maritime Museum and Queen's House is completely free, though booking free tickets online in advance is recommended to guarantee entry and receive updates. The National Maritime Museum itself, part of Royal Museums Greenwich, has a rich history, officially opening in 1937 and housing significant collections on Britain's maritime past.

Pro-Tip: Arrive early to make the most of your day. Consider visiting the Parkside Café & Terrace at the National Maritime Museum, which offers expansive views of Greenwich Royal Park and a selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes. For a pre-event bite or post-event drink, Greenwich Market is a short walk away, offering diverse street food options. Alternatively, The Old Brewery, located within the historic Old Royal Naval College, provides craft ales and a charming setting just a five-minute walk from the Royal Observatory.

Source Verification

This report is based on official production data and schedule information.

Source Link: https://www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/national-maritime-museum-queens-house/caribbean-takeover

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Author

South London News Culture Desk Edited By Jimmy Nsubuga

The South London News Culture Desk delivers essential reporting on the artistic and social forces defining life across the South East. From landmark premieres at The Old Vic and Shakespeare’s Globe to the evolving culinary landscapes of Borough and Greenwich Markets, our editorial staff provides rigorous coverage of the region's cultural infrastructure. We go beyond the marquee listings to offer industry analysis and community insights from local institutions like the South London Gallery, Horniman Museum, and the Southbank Centre, ensuring our readers remain connected to the creative economy driving our boroughs.

Every report is produced under the rigorous oversight of a leadership team with decades of experience at Yahoo UK, Metro, and the Daily Mail. By championing both emerging grassroots talent and established South London institutions, our desk upholds the highest standards of journalistic integrity to provide an authentic, human-led perspective on the cultural forces shaping our boroughs.