If you want to dance your brain off, check out Chris Elwell-Sutton's pick of the weekend's best five club nights...

SW4 After-Party
Brixton Academy, SW9
If you want to dance your brain off and don't mind playing catch-up with those who've been raving all day at the massive SW4 dance-fest on Clapham Common, this is a tantalising prospect. Armin Van Buuren and Judge Jules bring the percussive hard dance flavour to the main room, while dirty house duo King Unique take charge n the foyer. (0871 7113020). Sat 26 Aug, 10pm-6am.

Westwood and Goldfinger
Ministry of Sound, SE1
In recent years, Tim Westwood has not been invited to Carnival because of the safety risk allegedly posed by the massive crowds he drew to his rap stage, and the somewhat rowdy nature of some of his fans. But, like the Dalai Lama, Westwood is ruling in exile. Tonight will be a Godsend for all who miss the days when Notting Hill reverberated to the sound of hard hip-hop and brutal bashment. Chris Goldfinger shares the decks with Westwood, and there's a live PA from hot Jamaican dancehall star, Baby Cham. Expect heavy security and even heavier beats. (0870 060 266). Tonight, 10pm-4am.

Faith Summer All-Dayer
The Light Bar, E1
If, for whatever reason, you have an aversion to Carnival, but nonetheless want to taste the housey togetherness that might be found at the Sancho Panza soundsystem, the Faith team have got a little something for you. A varied line-up of top-level spinners, including Terry Farley, Stuart Patterson and Gilles Peterson will transport the positive Carnival vibes to the East End. (020 7247 8989). Sun 27 Aug, 2pm-11.30pm.

The Garden Party
The Mason's Arms, NW10
The second day of this two part shindig to coincide with Carnival offers a gentle but decadent, electronic alternative to the mayhem on the streets. DJs include Lottie, Justin Robertson and Sean Rowley of Guilty Pleasures fame. Expect a wide range of ages and an unpretentious atmosphere at this lovely old pub. (020 8960 2278). Mon 28 Aug, 4pm-1am.

Electric Souls Notting Hill Carnival Party
The Metropolitan, W11
Great line-up plus small bar equals roadblock; so get here early if you want to be part of this Westbourne Park rave-up. The eclectic sounds of Ross Allen and the cool electro house of Frank Tope will be heard. There's also a set from some DJs who, given the current climate, might as well forget ever trying to fly to America: The Unabombers. (020 7229 9254). Mon 28 Aug, 2pm-11pm.