Ryde’s Merry and Bright festive celebration will take place later this week, aiming to bring the community together, lighting up the dark winter events and spreading a little festive joy.
Merry and Bright, presented by New Carnival and Ryde Town Council, is an annual holiday event based in Ryde Town.
This year’s event is taking place on Friday, December 8 and Saturday, December 9.
Talented Island performers will include Mila Lake, star of ITV’s The Voice, Jay Eatwell, from Channel 4’s The Piano, Glow Circus Ariel hoop show, Wyldfire fire show, Huxley Magic, VIVA Drumming, Vectis Brass band, and many more.
For 2023, Merry and Bright will introduce indoor venues for performances to keep everyone warm.
Vernon Square Gardens will be transformed into ‘where the land meets the sea’ static illuminations.
St Thomas Rest Gardens will become the ‘neon garden’, where shadow play and UV light promise interactive fun for all the family.
Santa is also coming to town, and you can visit him in his grotto at The Island Photo Centre on Union Street.
Ryde shops will be open for late-night shopping and the Royal Victoria Arcade will host a craft market with a tempting array of local produce and handmade items.
On Friday night, between 6-7pm, a magical lantern parade will feature the Polar Express train on its way to the North Pole.
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