Get ready for an unforgettable evening as Ryde transforms into a magical winter wonderland for Merry and Bright Festival of Light 2024 this Friday (6th December 2024).
Organised by New Carnival in partnership with Ryde Town Council, this free, family-friendly event brings the community together for a dazzling display of lights, performances, and festive cheer.
What to expect
Event Highlights include the Christmas lights switch on at 4.50pm at St Thomas’s Square (by the old Natwest building) where Mayor of Ryde Richard May will get the evening’s festivities off to a spectacular start!
Don’t miss the ‘12 days of Christmas’ themed Lantern Parade (6-7pm) which will be led by the Isle of Wight College’s performing arts students.
They have prepared a brand new ‘Wassailing’ inspired routine, which will culminate with a short performance at the Western Gardens to round off the parade.
Lots more to see or do
Other not to be missed attractions are Santa’s Grotto, new indoor ‘Creation Station’ for Christmas crafts, and digital graffiti in Network Ryde, exclusive technology from the Institute of Technology in Canada.
Live performances
Live performances, including Aspire’s Creative Hub take over on the Main Stage in Town Square, with LED screen.
The 432 Nomads collective are back from Portsmouth, Huxley Magic, Glow circus, Enchanted Isle characters, Baron Fortitude, Brass Bands, Raw Samba, Wyld fire – fire show, and many more.
Hannah Ray, New Carnival director says:
“This is the fifth year of Merry and Bright Festival of Light in Ryde. A true community effort, we bring you a host of local talent and a bigger than ever ‘12 days of Christmas’ themed lantern parade.
“We are excited to have two new indoor spaces as well as the usual outdoor areas so we can ensure family fun for all ages, check out the full programme on our website.”
Winter Wonderland illuminated sculptures
Experience Vernon Square Garden’s Winter Wonderland illuminated sculptures, with an Isle of Wight Dark Skies themed area.
St Thomas Rest Garden’s Neon Garden has interactive shadow play, UV art and Light Art Creatives’ Digital Graffiti Projections at Network Ryde.
Free Christmas crafts and face-painting in the ‘Creation Station’ old Natwest bank.
Late night shopping
The Royal Victoria Arcade hosts a bustling craft ‘Makers Market’ perfect for unique gifts. Many local shops and eateries will be open late and offering exclusive deals and festive treats.
Do not miss Crepe Lovers, Melt Larder and the Island Jeweller’s remarkable offers. Be sure to get some late-night Christmas shopping done whilst you are out.
Fastcat discount
Wightlink have a special offer on the evening of the event, 20% off Fastcat ferry fares, from Ryde or Portsmouth.
If you have friends or family on the mainland please let them know.
Amazing new artworks
Check out lots of amazing new artworks by the New Carnival creative team and a host of local community and school groups including Network Ryde, Isle of Creativity, Ryde School Pre Prep, Forest Edge School, Breakout Youth, Ryde Family Hub, Ryde Sea Scouts, and many, many more!
Be part of the magic
Want to be part of the magic? Get your lantern kit for £10 and join the parade!
Kits can be purchased by emailing [email protected] or visiting The Coaching House, Ryde (Mon-Thurs).
For the full programme and updates, visit the New Carnival website.
Join us for a festive celebration in Ryde this December!
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