Crowds are expected to flood the streets of Newport tonight (Thursday) for the county town’s annual illuminated carnival.
The main carnival procession in July was cancelled due to the extremely poor weather that has hampered a number of events in 2023, so the carnival committee is planning to go all out for tonight’s illuminated procession.
For the first time ever, Shademakers UK will be taking part in a nighttime parade! Due to their costumes being unlit, they have only ever taken part in evening carnivals but Newport Carnival has worked with the group to find a perfect solution. The performers have been placed at the front of the carnival to catch the dusk light, with their HGV provided by Rob Kingswell Haulage being fitted with flood lighting to truly illuminate the group.
Those attending Newport Carnival are in for another treat too… Ventnor Comic Jazz Band has agreed to break their tradition of only playing on a Saturday to join the illuminated procession. They will be performing alongside Medina Marching Band, Vectis Corps of Drums, Island Highland Pipes & Drums, FAT Samba and Raw Samba.
There will also be the usual Queen’s floats from Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin, Ventnor and St Helens, as well as vintage and modern vehicles, local community groups and schools, dance acts and so much more.
The route will be the same as usual departing from Church Litten at 21:00. The carnival will head to Trafalgar Road, down The Mall and continue down the High Street and into Quay Street.
All the money raised on the night will go towards future events under the Newport Carnival & Community Events Association.
This year’s carnival is being held in loving memory of the chair of Newport Carnival of 20 years, June Winchcombe, who sadly passed away earlier this year.
Kids stay safe watch out for old farts
More importantly, watch out for people of all ages throwing items at the queens on the floats!!