Festivals: Portsmouth News and Information (Portsmouth)

Ports Fest are delighted to announce that they have received funding from Arts Council England to support a very exciting project for young people to create and present a Mardi Gras as part of Ports Fest 2023. The theme for 2023 is “Imagine, Ignite” and at Mardi Gras we will ignite the passion of young people in creative and innovative ways.

This project is being run in partnership with the New Carnival Company of the Isle of Wight.

“New Carnival is delighted to be partnering with Ports Fest this year to help create a new Portsmouth Mardi Gras Carnival parade. We have years of experience in carnival and love sharing our skills in working with local communities. We qualify and equip people to host high quality, innovative carnival events with positive themes. We look forward to showcasing the creative expression of young people through the Ports Fest Mardi Gras Parade.” Hannah Ray, Director NCC.

Ports Fest is an award-winning, independent, not-for-profit charity and the city’s longest-running arts and culture festival. It was founded in 1999 and is now in its 23rd year. The festival now also organizes events and projects outside of the annual festival dates.

“Ports Fest regularly brings new experiences to our city to engage and engage all of our communities. Their Mardi Gras Presents Ignite project in collaboration with the esteemed Isle of Wight based New Carnival Company will be a highlight for 2023 and I applaud this vote of confidence from the Ports Fest team from Arts Council England.” Cllr Steve Pitt, Portsmouth Councilor

Ports Fest will work with schools and youth organizations in Portsmouth to ensure that as many children as possible in our city can experience the creativity behind the scenes and the excitement of being part of such an amazing event. Their goal is to make this Mardi Gras a permanent part of the Portsmouth scene by inspiring the younger generation in our community.

“This project focuses on young people coming together to showcase their creativity in such a positive way. The journey will be just as important as the end result and I am delighted that Arts Council England has recognized the importance of this work and we are grateful for their support.” Erica Smith, Director Ports Fest.

The event will take place on June 29th in the south of the city.