Despite the wet and wild conditions of Storm Daragh, people came together for an unforgettable indoor celebration of creativity, community, and festive joy at Ryde’s Merry and Bright Festival of Light, organised by New Carnival and partners.
The evening opened with an address by Mayor Richard May, who switched on Ryde’s Christmas lights and praised the local community for their resilience and adaptability. While many outdoor attractions were relocated at short notice, the spirit of the festival remained undeterred.
A magical Winter Wonderland
New Carnival transformed the Balcony nightclub into a magical Winter Wonderland, showcasing lanterns made by adult participants in their evening classes.
Highlights included a Wassailing performance by Isle of Wight College performing arts students in costumes by Kira Lacey, directed by Charlie Bonner. Centred around a giant ‘Wassailing Cup’ lantern created by Breakthrough Apprentice Franc Fuller.
The 12 Days of Christmas,
The performance culminated in a community rendition of The 12 Days of Christmas, the history of this carol is linked to Shanklin on the Isle of Wight, with groups showcasing their lanterns and competing to sing their sections the loudest: Ryde School Pre-Prep: Two Turtle Doves, St Helen’s Primary School: Three French Hens, Binstead Primary School: Four Calling Birds, and Ryde Sea Scouts Cubs: Twelve Ships a-Sailing.
“Gold Rings” performance
There was also a dazzling “Gold Rings” performance by Wild Wood Circus, festive tunes from Abbey Brass and Vectis Brass Band, and RAW Samba’s electrifying outdoor drumming session accompanied by Samba dancers.
Craft makers market
The Royal Victoria Arcade hosted a bustling craft makers market and live performances by local talents like Jimi Cameron and Mila Lake. A mulled wine and mince pie stall raised over £400 for the Christmas Stocking Appeal.
Digital Graffiti workshop
In Network Ryde’s newly renovated building, visitors enjoyed a Digital Graffiti workshop by Light Art Creatives’ Julian, alongside circus acts, music, and neon decorations crafted by local young people with guidance from Georgia Upson of Unique Technique.
Free craft activities and face painting
11 St Thomas’s Square (the old NatWest bank) offered free craft activities, face painting, and performances by Huxley Magic and Baron Fortitude.
Decorated by Ryde Town Council, the space featured “Dark Skies”-themed lantern installations, including moths by New Carnival’s Isle of Creativity group, badgers by Ryde School Pre-Prep, a giant comet by The Island Learning centre students and bats by Breakout Youth. Over one thousand people came through the door to have a look.
Main stage performances
Aspire became a key weather-proof venue, hosting the main stage and LED screen with performances by Aspire’s Creative Hub musicians and the vibrant 432 Nomads group ‘Word of Mouth’ from Portsmouth.
New Carnival’s lantern sculptures and shadow screens added to the immersive experience.
Late night shopping
Ryde’s independent shops extended their hours for late-night shopping, drawing crowds and complementing the festive atmosphere.
Triumphed over adversity
Through determination and community spirit, Ryde’s Merry and Bright Festival of Light triumphed over adversity, delivering a magical event filled with light, music, and joy.
New Carnival extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, performed, or supported, including their sponsors Wightlink who supported the cross Solent travel of visiting performers and artists. Together, Ryde truly shone through the storm.
News shared by Gemma on behalf of New Carnival. Ed
