PHOTO GALLERY: Festive treat with Christmas Parade and special events in Newport

Here's what you need to know about all of today's special events.

Step Into Christmas

First up, organised by local businesses on Scarrots Lane, Step Into Christmas has much to look forward to between 10am and 5pm.

The event, taking place on a pedestrianised Scarrots Lane and the surrounding area, offers free live music, with a line-up of talented Island bands and traditional carol singers.

​Step Into Christmas 2023 poster (Image: Silver Screen Autographs)

You won’t want to miss the Christmas craft market, artisan food at the food court, a chance to receive a present from Mr and Mrs Claus at The Salvation Army Hall, the Snow Queen and her Siberian Huskies, free street entertainers and children’s face painting.

There will also be a charity raffle and local shops hosting special events, with the event coming to an end with a fire display by WyldFire.

Step Into Christmas is in support of children’s charity Barnardo's and Newport Carnival.

There's plenty to enjoy across the Isle of Wight in the lead up to Christmas, with markets, carnivals, grottos and tree festivals all to look forward to.

• SEE EVENTS HERE: Christmas events happening on the Isle of Wight 2023

Newport Christmas Parade

Christmas Parade in 2019 (Image: Newport Carnival)

Immediately following the event is Newport Carnival’s Christmas Parade, getting underway at 5pm from Church Litten.

Participants are asked to form up at Church Litten from 4.15pm, with the road closed at this time – but access remains to Morrisons, M&S and the petrol station. Judging will take place from 4.30pm.

See the route map below

The route is as follows: Left out of Church Little into South Street, right into St James’ Street, left into Pyle Street, right into High Street and left into Quay Street before turning onto The Quay to finish.

Newport Carnival's Christmas Parade route map (Image: Newport Carnival)

Various businesses around the town are staying open late to support the event.

Christmas Cracker Event at Quay Arts

Quay Arts on Sea Street is hosting its special Christmas Cracker event today and tomorrow (Sunday, December 3).

Today offers a craft fair (10am - 4pm) Xmas at Little City (Minghella Theatre, booking required), 'Wrap It Up!' Family Arts Drop In (1.30pm - 3.30pm).

Tomorrow, the venue will host another craft fair (10am - 4pm), Festive Storytime with Enchanted Isle (Minghella Theatre 10.30- 11.30pm, booking required), Salutaris Choir (Minghella Theatre 8pm, booking required).

There's lots to enjoy across the Christmas Cracker weekend, find out more on the Quay Arts website HERE.