The Isle of Wight Mardi Gras parade will take to the streets of Ryde Town Centre this Saturday (8th July).
Over 20 schools and community groups will be taking part in the inclusive and family-friendly parade, which will start at 15:00 from Simeon Recreation ground in Ryde and will celebrate the ‘Year of the Coast’.
The event showcases the creativity and talent of young people emphasising the rich carnival heritage of the Island.
The ‘Year of the Coast’ marks the creation of a coastal footpath around the country, set to be the longest waymarked section of coastal footpath in the world, measuring 2,800 miles long. The carnival parade kicks off National Children’s Carnival Week, 8th – 16th July, exploring all things coastal.
This year’s parade will also feature some special guest contributors. Carnival artist Donna Fox will be touring her ‘Spirit of Montserrat’ costume inspired by Irish, African and Arawak cultural influences. Donna will also exhibit her beautiful site decorations at Simeon Recreation Ground. Fashion Student Joel Lines will be showcasing his costumes created for his degree show at Central St Martins College London.
Gemma Mallinson, Creative Educator, Production and Participation Manager at New Carnival Company has said:
“We hope lots of you will be able to come along to Ryde to enjoy the parade and see all the hard work and creativity that children from over 20 local schools, plus community groups and samba bands have been putting in to get ready for this fantastic event.”
Another excuse for drunk and drugged, tattooed, half naked chavs to kick off.
Best avoided.
drunks and drugged on the island never
“The ‘Year of the Coast’ marks the creation of a coastal footpath around the country”………..but there isn’t a full coastal path around the island. Walkers have to walk a substantial distance alongside roads – a truly shocking situation for the island and prevents very many walkers from visiting. When are the council going to address this issue?