THE Isle of Wight was treated to an exhilarating, vibrant event this year – as New Carnival’s Mardi Gras made its triumphant return at the weekend.

The much-anticipated annual extravaganza captivated onlookers with a dazzling array of colours, magic, and performances.

This month’s event, themed the year of the coast, celebrated the rich tapestry of wildlife, heritage, and culture the Isle of Wight coastline has to offer.

A popular fixture on the Isle of Wight calendar, the event attracted thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond.

Isle of Wight County Press: Wootton Primary School representing walking, hiking and cycling.Wootton Primary School representing walking, hiking and cycling. (Image: Tracy Curtis)

The festivities kicked off with a parade, which made its way through the streets of Ryde, complete with flamboyant costumes, large puppets, and infectious rhythms.

Hannah Ray, New Carnival director and event organiser, said: “We were thrilled to showcase and celebrate the year of the coast, bringing people together through the joyous and exuberant atmosphere of Mardi Gras.

“This year's event was a remarkable showcase of creativity, talent, and hard work by all those involved, and we are delighted that so many were able to join us for this unforgettable celebration.”

Isle of Wight County Press: Donna Fox wearing her 'Spirit of Montserrat' costume.Donna Fox wearing her 'Spirit of Montserrat' costume. (Image: Tracy Curtis)

Visitors were treated to a day of entertainment, as more than 20 local school and community groups, both RAW and FAT Samba bands, visiting artist Donna Fox, and fashion graduate Joel Lines took to the streets to deliver mesmerizing performances.

From the ever-energetic Zodiac All Star Dance Troupe, who visited from Nottingham, to the spectacular giant spiny seahorse from Cowes Enterprise College, the event had it all.

Other eye-catching displays included a giant crab from St Helens Primary School, a Ballan Wrasse fish sculpture, a dance performance by Ryde Academy pupils, and silk painted flags marking the start of each section of the parade.

Isle of Wight County Press: Cowes Enterprise College representing spiny seahorses.Cowes Enterprise College representing spiny seahorses. (Image: Tracy Curtis)

As well as the main parade, New Carnival also organised a Mini Mardi Gras in St Thomas’ Rest Garden, in the heart of the town, with an array of activities suited to younger children.

Ryde mayor, Richard May, said: “Mardi Gras is the first significant event in Ryde’s summer programme, and it’s a really, really good one!

“It signals to everyone that the summer is about to begin, and there is a real feeling of celebration.”

Pictures by Tracy Curtis.