The Isle of Wight’s summer carnival season opens with a bang, as Newport’s Main Carnival makes its grand return today (Saturday, July 20).
A highly anticipated restart, after last year’s event was cancelled due to adverse weather conditions, the procession will kick off from South Street at 7pm.
The 2022 carnival marked Newport’s centenary with the largest celebration the town had seen since the 1980s.
This year, organisers are committed to delivering another spectacular event, encouraging participants and spectators to join the festivities.
During the day (10am-4pm), St Thomas’s Square will host live entertainment and music, including four American police cars, Reading Scottish Pipe Band, plus an indoor market within The Minster.
Ahead of the main procession, make sure you have secured a good viewing spot along the route! (See map below)
![Newport Carnival 2024 route map]()
Newport Carnival 2024 route map (Image: Newport Carnival Association)
Popular vantage points include South Street and the High Street, though quieter spots may be found further along Trafalgar Road and The Mall.
The procession will assemble at 5.30pm at Church Litten, followed by judging at 6pm.
Note: Entries must register halfway along Church Litten, by the stone archway, to be considered for judging.
Winding its way through Newport, the procession will conclude on the Lower High Street due to ongoing roadworks on Sea Street.
The procession will include all the favourites, such as Medina Marching Band, Ventnor Comic Jazz Band, Vectis Corps of Drums, FAT Samba, royalty and community floats and much more!
In addition to the Main Carnival, the Illuminated procession will take place on Thursday, August 22.
Although smaller in scale, organisers are promising a captivating experience.
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