Red Funnel Gives £2,500 Boost To East Cowes Carnival

East Cowes Carnival is getting a £2,500 boost from Red Funnel ahead of its return later this month.

The ferry operator is supporting the community celebration for a second year, with the money helping organisers cover costs including the marching bands.

The carnival takes place on Saturday 22nd August, with a free family fun day running from midday until 6pm.

There'll be live music, entertainment, face painting and activities for all ages, before the main carnival parade gets underway at 7:15pm.

Homemade floats, marching bands, dance groups and Carnival Royalty will take to the streets, with hundreds of people expected to join the celebrations.

Members of the East Cowes Carnival Committee and the 2026 Carnival Queens recently visited Red Funnel to receive the sponsorship from Operations Director Neil Chapman.

The carnival made a comeback in 2025 after a 30-year break, and organisers say it's now firmly back on the Island's events calendar.

The event is run entirely by volunteers and funded through local fundraising and sponsorship.

Red Funnel Operations Director Neil Chapman said the company is proud to support the carnival for a second year and is looking forward to seeing East Cowes filled with "colour, music and community spirit".

East Cowes Carnival Chair Carrie Lacey said the sponsorship "makes such a difference", helping the team provide a free event for the community while allowing the carnival to continue growing.

Everyone is welcome to attend the family fun day or line the parade route in the evening.