New Carnival is thrilled to announce the launch of the 2025 Isle of Wight Mardi Gras, held on Tuesday, January 21st, at Quay Arts.
With over 40 attendees, including local school teachers, community leaders, freelance artists and representatives from arts and community organisations, the event set the stage for an exciting year of cultural celebration.
The evening began with a screening of the 2024 IW Mardi Gras video, rekindling memories of last year’s vibrant parade.
Attendees were then treated to an engaging talk by Steve Baker, Vice Chair of New Carnival’s Board of Trustees and founder of the renowned Bakers Dozen Morris Dancing Side. Steve’s insights into the art of Morris dancing brought a folktastic energy to the room and set the tone for the evening.
Introducing “Our Folktastic Isle – the Wheel of the Year”
Hannah Ray, New Carnival’s Director, unveiled the theme for this year’s Mardi Gras: “Our Folktastic Isle – the Wheel of the Year”.
She highlighted the growing interest in folk traditions, driven by the UK’s ratification of the UNESCO treaty on Intangible Cultural Heritage, the effects of climate change, and a collective desire for authenticity and connection to nature in an increasingly digital world. Hannah said,
“What excites us most about folk traditions — and carnival as an extension of this — is their inclusivity. These traditions belong to everyone.
“They allow us to take to the streets, take up space, transform our surroundings, and bring people of all ages together.
“There is universal appeal within folk, it endures, its authentic.”
Inspiration for the theme
Hannah also shared how New Carnival drew inspiration for this year’s theme during a visit to the “Making More Mischief” exhibition, hosted by the Museum of British Folklore in London last May. The exhibition showcased the enduring vitality and creativity of British folk traditions, sparking ideas that will now come to life through the IW Mardi Gras.
To illustrate the contemporary relevance of folk culture, attendees watched a clip of Wet Leg’s folk-inspired performance at the Brit Awards, featuring the dynamic Boss Morris Side. This captivating blend of tradition and modernity perfectly underscored the evening’s message.
A narrative rooted in tradition
The creative highlight of the evening was the presentation by Gemma, Gina, Kai and Hannah, who introduced the five sections that will shape the IW Mardi Gras parade’s narrative: The Celestial Realm, Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter. These sections encompass 26 rich topics for schools and community groups to explore, including:
- The Sun, The Moon and The Earth
- Shroving, Beating the Bounds, Morris Dancing, King Arwald, May Day and Jack in the Green
- Well Dressing, Summer Solstice, Midsummer Magic, Coloured Sand Art and the Mackerel Fair
- Hoam Harvest, Lammas, Mabon (Autumn Equinox) and All Hallow’s Eve
- Yule, Mummers Plays, Giltern Market, Wassailing, Winter Solstice, Plough Monday and Christmas Trees
These themes promise to bring the folklore and heritage of the Isle of Wight to life in vibrant and imaginative ways.
Support and participation
To support participants in creating their contributions, Gemma outlined the extensive resources and workshops available through New Carnival and its partners.
Abbie followed with an overview of key dates and deadlines, ensuring everyone knows how to get involved.
Join the celebration
The launch event left attendees feeling inspired and eager to be part of this year’s IW Mardi Gras. With its celebration of the Isle of Wight’s rich cultural heritage, “Our Folktastic Isle – the Wheel of the Year” promises to be an unforgettable experience.
For more information or to get involved, please contact Gemma at [email protected], or visit the website.
Let’s make the 2025 IW Mardi Gras a vibrant celebration of tradition and creativity!
News shared by Gemma on behalf of New Carnival. Ed
