By Isle of Wight Observer
Carnivals are in full swing with events taking place over the next four days, both with a long history, along with a new addition to one of the offerings.
The 112th Yarmouth Carnival Week started Saturday, with the opening ceremony and field sports, including a four-mile fun run around the River Yar.
Lord-Lieutenant, Susie Sheldon, will open the ceremony at 2pm followed by the fun run with registrations from 1.15pm in the marquee, entry £5. Field sports for young and old follow, with refreshments available.
During the week there will be River Sports, a Treasure Hunt, crabbing on Yarmouth Pier, Boat Racing, Kite Flying, cycling skills and much more.
The Carnival parade takes place next Saturday (August 17), with parade judging at 3.30pm, before moving from The Green at 4pm.
The week’s full details are all in the Yarmouth Carnival programme which is on sale, £2, at various retailers throughout the town.
The 135th Ventnor Carnivals featuring the children’s and the main event will take place on Wednesday with a week of family fun and games starting on Sunday. There will be daily events throughout the week with the children’s carnival starting in Dudley Road at noon which will be led by Vectis Corps of Drums to the park where Ventnor’s Senior Queen Suzie Carpenter will be crowned and the fancy dress will be judged.
The main parade starts at 7pm from Pier Street with an array of bands and colourful floats and a surprise or two. The evening culminates with fireworks at the seafront arranged by The Spyglass Inn and seafront businesses.
Friday also sees the return of the popular Ventnor Day, run jointly by the town council and the carnival, taking place in Ventnor Park from noon with stalls and entertainment for children and adults alike.
Saturday will see the start of the first ever Ventnor Pirate Festival, which will run from Wednesday (August 14) to next Saturday. There will pirate themed games and activities on the beach and the Esplanade on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. Visit the Ventnor Pirate Festival Facebook page for details.
The illuminated Carnival is next Saturday (August 17) at 9pm. Full details on the Ventnor Carnival Association Facebook page.
