The Carnivals of the Isle of Wight number no less than 17 annual events featuring towns and villages providing Children’s, Main, and Illuminated events during the summer months. Orchestrated by various Carnival Committees these events represent some of the oldest celebrations the Island has to offer. Originally servicing the trade in holiday visitors, local social groups and companies would volunteer their time, money and energy in developing contemporary themes of the day. Some would return year on year as pirates or policemen becoming an eternal element of Island character. 

Fortunes in the holiday industry have fluctuated with time, however, the Carnival has remained a constant with voluntary efforts being a mainstay of the existence of the contributing groups and individuals. By the turn of the millennium, the professional status of Carnival costume designers became a new feature of activity, extending the production period, generating new income and making use of available building space. When Shademakers arrived on the island they brought with them an international reputation, with a list of prestige events to their name. The island became home whilst giving leverage for islanders to be involved in actively exporting the skills and creativity to the world. The power in the Carnival allows us to never forget the spiritual wealth and emotional investment embedded in all that is local.