The New Carnival Company (NCC) has been working with Isle of Wight schoolteachers and national carnival organisers to bring the joy of carnival to children, teachers, and families at the end of what has been an extremely difficult and challenging academic year. The National Children’s Carnival Week will replace annual Mardi Gras celebrations this year, and everyone is invited to take part!

As we head towards the summer, many carnivals around the country are being forced to move online for the second year running. The New Carnival Company’s Mardi Gras has also announced it will NOT be taking place on the streets in June.

All is not lost, however. The ever-resourceful company has hatched a scheme to enable not just one Mardi Gras, but many, to pop up all over the Island, in playgrounds, sports fields and outdoor community spaces, as part of a UK wide project to launch a National Children’s Carnival Week, 12-18 July.

The New Carnival Company will be sharing their special theme ‘Colours of the Rainbow’ and are offering all schools and community family groups FREE online workshops, plus supported packages where artists can securely visit school to help out (small charge). There is even an online dance session planned and a specially written children’s carnival song!