New Carnival, in partnership with Ryde Town Council, is excited to announce the return of the much-anticipated Merry and Bright – Festival of Light. Taking place on Friday, 6th December 2024 from 5pm to 8pm, this year’s event promises to be bigger and brighter than ever!
2024’s event introduces an exciting new addition: Network Ryde will open its doors to offer an immersive Digital Graffiti workshop led by Julian from Light Art Creatives, allowing participants to express their creativity with light in a truly innovative way. This is an exclusive one-of-a-kind opportunity as no one else in the UK has this technology!
Also new for this year is a main stage hosting a lineup of talented local musicians, curated by the Aspire Creative Hub, there will also be performances by Mila Lake, Double Take and 432 Nomads among others! As you stroll through town, make sure to check out the musical performances including brass bands and circus performances including Alicia’s Glow Circus and Wyld Fire show, scattered throughout Ryde’s streets, including the Town Square, Minghella Square, at Vernon Square Garden, and on the Vintage Bus at the bottom of Union Street. There will also be roaming performers from Enchanted Isle.
The heart of the festival will be the enchanting Lantern Parade, 6-7pm, where the streets of Ryde will come alive with glowing lanterns inspired by the theme ‘The 12 Days of Christmas.’ A dazzling variety of local groups are set to take part, including Ryde Sea Scouts, St Helen’s Primary School, Binstead Primary School, Ryde School Pre-Prep Carni Beats, Ryde Academy performing arts students, IW College performing arts students, and Ryde, Ventnor, Sandown and Newport Carnival Associations showcasing their magnificent royalty floats.
The rhythm of RAW Samba and other performers will help bring festive cheer throughout the town. The parade will set off from Dover Street outside Aspire – who will be serving hot chocolates and gingerbread coffees before the parade sets off. It will then travel along Park Street, Star Street, the High Street and Union Street before finishing with a traditional Wassailing inspired ceremony at Western Gardens.
Alongside the parade, visitors can enjoy a stunning display of New Carnival’s famous lantern sculptures in Vernon Square Gardens, which will transport attendees to a Winter Wonderland, complete with a special Dark Skies area for those seeking a quieter, more tranquil experience. Vernon Square Conservation Society will be offering festive drinks and treats for visitors to enjoy. St Thomas’s Rest Garden will glow with the colourful, interactive delights of the Neon Garden, featuring vibrant sculptures that invite audience participation.
The Royal Victoria Arcade will be home to a bustling craft market, where you can find unique gifts and festive treats. Many local businesses will be joining in on the fun with late-night shopping, including Sugar and Spice, Island Jewellers, Essence Crystal Boutique and The Fantastic Store (and lots more TBC),and The Star Coffee and Ale House offering festive treats. Plus, there will be craft activities hosted at the old NatWest Building for those eager to make their own festive creations as well as free face painting.
Get Involved!
There are plenty of ways to participate in this magical event:
- Join a lantern-making workshop or purchase a DIY lantern kit from New Carnival (available from November). There’s still time for schools to book a workshop too – get in touch!
- For adults, New Carnival is hosting a 4-week community learning course in November, where you can create your very own willow lantern Christmas tree.
Stay tuned for the full programme by visiting our website.
Don’t miss this spectacular celebration of light, creativity, and community spirit! We look forward to seeing you in Ryde for an unforgettable evening.
News shared by Gemma on behalf of New Carnival. Ed
