IW Mardi Gras Returns To Ryde For Celebration Of Island Myths, Legends And Folklore

The Isle of Wight’s biggest youth-focused community carnival is set to take over the streets of Ryde once again this summer, as IW Mardi Gras returns on Saturday 4 July.

Hundreds of participants and spectators are expected to join the colourful event, which celebrates creativity, community and Island culture on a large scale.

This year’s theme, “Folktastic Isle: Stories, Myths and Legends”, invites schools, community groups, artists and performers to dive into the Island’s rich folklore – from legendary figures and local myths to hidden stories passed down through generations.

The event, produced by New Carnival and supported by Arts Council England, will transform Ryde into a moving street festival featuring giant costumes, puppetry, live music, dance and storytelling.

More than 23 schools and community groups have already been busy creating handmade costumes, performance pieces and parade displays inspired by Island folklore and imagination.

The day begins with Mini Mardi Gras at Simeon Street Recreation Ground from 11am, offering free family activities, creative workshops, circus skills, music-making, the Heron Guard, and local food stalls.

The main parade then sets off at 3pm, winding its way through Ryde before returning to Simeon Street Rec, with organisers promising giant puppets, samba bands, bold costumes and live performances throughout.

The event is also part of the Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival and supports the National Year of Reading campaign, highlighting how storytelling can connect communities and inspire creativity.

There are also opportunities for the public to get involved ahead of the event, including a flag-making workshop at Ryde Library on Saturday 27 June from 2pm to 4pm, featuring the National Year of Reading “Go All In” logo.

A simple costume-making workshop will also take place at Quarr Abbey on Sunday 28 June, with booking required.

As part of this year’s legacy, New Carnival – working with the National Literacy Trust – is also hoping to produce an anthology book of Island myths and legends, featuring illustrations from local children, alongside a collection of new songs created by the Isle of Wight Music Hub.

To support the project, donations can be made via: https://localgiving.org/fundraising/Folktastic-Isle-book-fund

Hannah Ray, CEO of New Carnival, said:

“IW Mardi Gras is a celebration of the creativity, talent and community spirit that exists across the Isle of Wight.

"This year’s theme gives participants the opportunity to explore the Island’s rich folklore while creating something truly spectacular together.

"We can’t wait to see Ryde filled with colour, music and imagination once again.”

IW Mardi Gras is free to attend and open to everyone, with organisers saying it is only possible thanks to Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation funding and ongoing donations and sponsorship.

More details can be found at https://localgiving.org/charity/newcarnival

Whether taking part in the parade, joining workshops or watching from the sidelines, everyone is invited to be part of a major celebration of Island culture, creativity and storytelling.