Carnival costumes, drumming, dancing, storytelling and magic will take over Ryde this Saturday (29th August), as the town’s Children’s Day Carnival returns with a packed programme of free family entertainment.
Activities will take place across Ryde Town Centre and St Thomas’ Rest Gardens throughout the day, culminating in the Children’s Carnival Parade at 13:30.
Youngsters are being encouraged to dress up in their favourite carnival costumes and join the celebrations, with activities ranging from creative workshops and a scavenger hunt to live performances.
The day will begin at 10:00 with a free drop-in Carnival Costume Workshop at The Department, where children can create their own costumes ahead of the parade.
From 11:00-15:00, Ryde Carnival’s information stand will be open at Minghella Square, where free scavenger hunt sheets will also be available.
A drumming workshop with Viva Rhythm Crew will take place at 11:00, followed at 11:30 by ‘A Very Hungry Story Time’ with Ryde Library and Gabby from Craft Session Story Time at St Thomas’ Rest Gardens. A free picnic will also be available.
Judging for the Garden on a Plate competition will take place at the gardens at 11:30.
Entertainment then moves to Ryde Town Square, where the New Carnival Dance Troupe will perform at 12:15, followed by Raw Samba at 12:30 and Ella Shepherd’s School of Dance at 13:00.
One of the main highlights of the day will begin at 13:30 when youngsters in their colourful costumes come together for the Children’s Carnival Parade.
The day’s entertainment will continue at St Thomas’ Rest Gardens with the Huxley Magic Show at 14:30.
Jo, Chair of Ryde Carnival Association, has said:
“We are incredibly grateful to all of our funders, partners and local businesses who have supported Ryde Carnival and Ryde Children’s Day Carnival.
“Putting on a programme of this scale, while keeping the activities free for families, is only possible because of the support we receive from organisations and businesses who believe in the value of bringing people together and creating positive experiences for children and families.
“We have a great programme of activities planned, with something for everyone, from crafts and storytelling to drumming, dancing, magic and, of course, the Children’s Carnival Parade.
“We hope to see lots of families coming along, getting dressed up and joining in the celebrations.”
The event has received support from Arts Council England, Ryde Town Council, Wightlink, Shademakers and New Carnival Company, alongside a number of local businesses.
All activities at Ryde Children’s Day Carnival on Saturday are free to attend.
