Ryde will burst into colour and culture on Saturday (5th July) as the 2025 Isle of Wight Mardi Gras brings folklore, tradition and community spirit to the streets.
This year’s event will see 24 schools and community groups take part, showcasing handmade costumes and performances inspired by folklore and customs unique to the Isle of Wight. The parade forms part of the wider Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival celebrations.
Participants have explored a range of island traditions, from Morris dancing in Newport during the 1600s to Ryde’s historic Jack in the Green parade of 1865, Shrovetide doughnuts, and the Gilten Market. These influences will be brought to life through vibrant visuals and storytelling.
Poppy, a Year 6 pupil from Wroxall Primary School, has said:
“Mardi Gras makes me feel happy, I can express myself, it gets me noticed by people. I like being out with all the people watching, I have done it for 3 years now and I really enjoy it.”
The parade will feature an array of characters and costumes, including New Carnival’s signature “Four Seasons” puppets and a roaming Green Man. A folk dancing performance by ‘Mr Baker’s Dozen’ Morris side will take place at 14:30 outside the old NatWest Bank in St Thomas’ Square before the main procession begins.
The parade route is as follows:
- Departs: 15:00 from Simeon Recreation Ground
- Main viewing: 15:30-16:00 through Ryde town centre
- Route: The Strand → Dover Street → Cross Street → Union Street → Esplanade → returns to Simeon Recreation Ground
Before the main event, a Mini Mardi Gras will run from 11:00-14:30 at Simeon Recreation Ground, offering free family-friendly workshops and activities. There will also be an opportunity for children to join in the parade. A designated Quiet Zone will be available near the boating lake at the end of the Esplanade, providing a calmer space to enjoy the parade.
New groups joining the Mardi Gras this year include IW Young Carers, IW Young Farmers, Ryde Family Hub (Barnardo’s), East Cowes Carnival, Brading Primary, Brighstone Primary and the Christmas Tree Festival.
Pre-parade entertainment includes performances from Viva Carnival Club with their Bamboo Tamboo rhythms, and a mass line dance by All Stars Dance Stars and Dover Park Primary School.
The Isle of Wight Mardi Gras is supported by Arts Council England, Ryde Town Council, Wightlink and Diamond Adventures. Reduced Wightlink ferry fares for mainland visitors are available via the IW Biosphere website.
