By Isle of Wight Observer
A day of music, magic, fun and games will take place in Newport tomorrow (Saturday) with the return of the annual Riverfest.
The free feast of entertainment is organised by the Newport Carnival, and runs from 10am-4pm.
Chairman of the Carnival Committee, Paddy McHugh, said: “The event has got bigger and bigger since we took over from the Footprint Trust after Covid.
“Last year we had around 6,000 attending throughout the day, and it was a huge success, so much so that we won a Red Funnel Bronze Award for Best Island Event, so we’re doing something right!”
The entertainment starts with the opening parade, led by the Vectis Corps of Drums, from St Thomas’ Square at 9.50am for a march to Newport Quay, and the firing of a cannon to mark the official opening. High Sheriff, Jacque Gazzard, will crown this year’s carnival royalty at 10.15am, with magicians Stevo and Kai performing at 10.30am.
Next, there is a display by the Medina Marching Band, and the programme continues with live music from Flash Kirby, line dancing with the Long Island Stompers, Natalie as Kylie Minogue, FaT Samba Band, Ali’s Fitness Fusion and finally the Cornerstone Band.
There will also be arts and crafts, stalls, face-painting, tractors, live animals, steam engines, vintage bikes, pirate stalls, fairground rides and much more.