Thousands gathered at Newport Quay on Saturday (10th May) for Riverfest 2025 – a vibrant, free celebration of the Isle of Wight’s river heritage and community spirit.
The annual event remained completely free to attend, a point of pride for organisers in a time when many large-scale gatherings require tickets. Riverfest continues to champion accessibility for both residents and visitors to the Isle of Wight.
Planning Riverfest is a major undertaking that spans around 7 months each year, with organisers curating a line-up that includes live music, performers, stalls and family-friendly activities.
This year’s Riverfest was supported by several key sponsors including Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council, Red Funnel, Cherry Godfrey and Lawdit Solicitors. Further help came from NDL Event Power Solutions, SDC Marquees, Widget Productions, Isle of Wight Council, and Newport Harbour staff.
Paddy McHugh, Chair of Newport Carnival & Community Events Association, has said:
“Volunteers are the backbone of Riverfest. From the Newport Carnival team to friends at other carnivals, such as Harry Finnis and Ben Holbrook from Sandown Carnival, their efforts are worth their weight in gold.
“My extended thanks to the Isle of Wight High Sheriff Jacqueline Gazzard, who crowned Newport Carnival’s Royalty for 2025, and Cllr Ray Harrington Val for opening the event.
“My thanks also include the marching bands, dancers, singers, and traders who contributed to bringing the day to life.”
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Shane Thornton, Vice Chair, added:
“I am proud to be part of a small group of people who put on this great, fun, free, family event in the heart of Newport on the Isle of Wight.
“Without the support from friends, family, committee and local businesses, we simply would not be able to hold these great events.
“A personal thank you to everyone who attended on the day, thousands of you showed your support, and it is truly amazing to see after 7 months of organising.”
Organisers are now encouraging anyone interested in helping secure Riverfest’s future – whether through sponsorship or volunteering – to get in touch. The event is entirely volunteer-led and relies on community support to stay free and thriving for future generations.
Riverfest will return in 2026, with the date to be confirmed based on next year’s tide times.
