New Carnival has unveiled its Isle of Wight Mardi Gras 2024 theme as ‘The Story of Carnival’: From Ancient Roots to Global Party. At Quay Arts on Wednesday 17th January, New Carnival held the launch of Mardi Gras set to take place on Saturday 6th July 2024, an event that will unravel the rich tapestry of Carnival’s history from its ancient origins to global phenomenon. The IW Mardi Gras 2024 will be a journey through time, showcasing the evolution of Carnival traditions and their significant impact on communities around the world. There will be 3 chapters to the parade: The History of Carnival, Global Carnivals Today, and The Future of Carnival. From its roots, in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, where it served as a tribute to nature and the seasons; to the modern-day jubilations that unite people across cultures from Rio to Goa, and Quebec to Viareggio, the event will illuminate the diverse cultural influences that have shaped this joyful occasion. It will also look towards the future of Carnival, inviting groups to imagine parades in years to come. Hannah Ray, New Carnival Director, says:
“We believe that it is important for children to celebrate our Island’s wonderful carnival tradition, and to see them in the context of global carnivals and the history of carnival. “This year the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport’s (DCMS) plans to ratify the UNESCO convention for the ‘protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage’ in plain English this means protecting things like traditions and events, as opposed to buildings. We think that there is a strong argument for carnivals to become better valued and acknowledged within this.”
New Carnival cordially invites all schools and community groups on the Isle of Wight to join them in this grand celebration. IW Mardi Gras 2024 is an opportunity to foster community spirit, cultural understanding, and creativity among the Island’s residents. Participants will have the chance to showcase their artistic talents, explore historical themes, learn about, and make links with Carnival organisers and participants across the globe, and immerse themselves in the colourful traditions that define Carnival. New Carnival will be offering several short evening courses and longer Adult and Community Learning courses in the run-up to the Mardi Gras, as well as a Masterclass from world-renowned artist. The IOW Music Hub will once again be creating a brand-new Mardi Gras anthem for this year with schools’ workshops preparing for the Big Sing Out before the parade sets off. Gemma Mallinson, New Carnival’s Creative Educator and Production and Participation Manager, said:
“The Isle of Wight Mardi Gras is a fantastic opportunity for young people to learn about other cultures, history, heritage, and tradition, to be creative, learn new skills and perform in a large- scale public event. Last year’s parade was amazing, with 23 schools and community groups taking part. We cannot wait to begin working on this year’s event with even more participants!”
To register your school or community group for participation or for more information, contact [email protected].
Mardi Gras is 13th February 2024 not 6th July so please either have it on the correct date or call it something else
That is right. Carnival used to refer only to the period leading up to Lent but now has many other meanings (funfairs, public events in streets, etc.). However, Mardi Gras is the day before Ash Wednesday (Shrove Tuesday in the UK).