Sandown Set To Launch Isle Of Wight Carnival Season This Weekend

Sandown is set to launch the Isle of Wight's carnival season when its Main Carnival takes to the streets this Saturday evening.

The procession gets underway at 7pm, setting off from Sandown Library before following a circular route around the town.

Spectators can expect a colourful parade featuring marching bands, community groups, decorated floats and carnival costumes from across the Island.

Organisers say there will be something for all the family, with anyone still wishing to take part able to register on the day.

Entries are welcome without pre-registration, with participants asked to sign up from 5pm on Culver Parade.

Harry Finnis, Chair of the Sandown Carnival Association, said:

"We're excited to start this year's carnival season, and our summer parades remain a much-loved tradition for both visitors and residents alike.

"We've made the difficult decision to pause our Children's Parade this year due to rising costs across our events.

"However, we hope children's entries will join us towards the front of our Main Carnival procession, where there will be an option for them to leave the route early if they wish.

"As a non-profit community organisation, we rely on the generosity of our community to keep our events running. Donations are extremely appreciated."

Following the Main Carnival, Sandown will host the Sandown Bay Regatta on 9th August, before the popular Sandown Illuminated Carnival returns on Wednesday 26th August.

More information is available on the Sandown Carnival website and Facebook page.