Riverfest - A celebration of river and community life

The River Medina has a long history, and once carried goods into the New Port, which served the Island’s capital - Carisbrooke. Today the River and its banks are important habitats for rare and interesting wildlife and a place for recreation and leisure. Isle of Wight Riverfest celebrates the heritage, community, businesses and wildlife associated with this historic river.

Isle of Wight Riverfest was launched in 2008 and has become the biggest free community event in Newport, attracting some 4,000 people.

Riverfest aims to achieve the following;

Raise awareness of the environmental and leisure benefits of the water environment

Promote sustainable water use and conservation of wetland habitats

To promote organisations and businesses with an interest in the River Medina and the wider community

The highlight of the event is a flotilla with vessels of all shapes, ages and sizes. The flotilla is hailed by the arrival of a tall ship from The Little Brig Sailing Trust, a charity that operates the world's smallest tall ships to provide the complete sailing experience to young people. The ship is traditionally rigged with two masts, 10 sails, and one hundred ropes.

The Wight Pirates – early 18th Century Pirate and Smuggler re-enactors usually invade Riverfest – so watch out!

A variety of organisations and charities associated with the river and the wider community attend the event including the Maritime Volunteer Service, Newport Rowing Club, the Royal Naval Association, Medina Mariners Association and the Medina Valley Centre.

Volunteers from the Island’s Classic Boat Museum promote nautical heritage and show some of their best exhibits.

In recent years The IW Council’s Play Rangers have organised free play activities with a watery theme. The Medina Valley Centre’s Eco-Challenger have given children the chance of making toys powered by the sun and seeing the fascinating creatures that lurk in the depths of the River. Estuary related fun for children of all ages is always on offer.

Staff and volunteers from the local Wildlife Trust, are on hand to talk about the Island’s important habitats. Other wildlife enthusiasts show the important creatures of the deep that frequent the river.

Businesses specialising in local food and crafts are welcome at Riverfest. The Bargeman’s Rest treats its patrons to a special Riverfeast to celebrate the Riverfest. The local Riverside Centre is open providing light snacks and liquid refreshments.

The Footprint Trust uses the event to promote wise use of water and gives away free water saving devices and guidance on how to reduce water consumption. Local business Engenius explains rainwater-harvesting systems.

Riverfest is supported by Newport Parish Council, Natural Enterprise, SITA Trust’s Enhancing Nature programme, Big Lottery Awards for All, Odessa Boatyard, Southern Water, the Environment Agency, Engenius and many other local businesses. The event is made possible by the Isle of Wight Council, who allow free use of Newport historic working Quay. It is organised by The Footprint Trust, a local educational charity.

The Event takes place every May – the date is fixed according to the tides. Please contact The Footprint Trust to find out details of this year’s event. Tel 01983 822282 or email [email protected]

For details of businesses sponsorship and promotion please contact Ray Harrington-Vail on 01983 82-22-82. or email [email protected]