New Carnival Unveils Isle Of Wight Mardi Gras 2024 Theme

The Isle of Wight Mardi Gras theme for 2024 will be a journey through time, showcasing the evolution of Carnival traditions and their significant impact on communities around the world.

There will be three chapters to the parade: The History of Carnival, Global Carnivals Today, and The Future of Carnival.

From its roots, in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, where it served as a tribute to nature and the seasons; to the modern-day jubilations that unite
people across cultures.

From Rio to Goa, and Quebec to Viareggio, the event will illuminate the diverse cultural influences that have shaped these events.

The event also aims to look towards the future of Carnival, inviting groups to imagine parades in years to come.

New Carnival Director Hannah Ray said:

“We believe that it is important for children to celebrate our Island’s wonderful carnival tradition, and to see them in the context of global carnivals and the history of carnival.

"This year the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport’s (DCMS) plans to ratify the UNESCO convention for the ‘protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

"This means protecting things like traditions and events, as opposed to buildings. We think that there is a strong argument for carnivals to become better valued and acknowledged within this.”

This year’s IW Mardi Gras will take place on Saturday July 6 in Ryde.

Schools and community groups will be supported by New Carnival to design and prototype their costumes on their chosen topic.

New Carnival will be offering several short evening courses and longer Adult and Community Learning courses in the run up to the Mardi Gras, as well as a Masterclass from world renowned artist.

Look out on New Carnival’s social media for more details.

The IOW Music Hub will once again be creating a brand-new Mardi Gras anthem for this year with schools’ workshops preparing for the Big Sing Out before the parade sets off.