SANDOWN Regatta returns after a two year absence today (Saturday, August 13) with a fun packed weekend, featuring market stalls, magic shows, stage performances, a firework finale and much more!

See event map below

Organised by Sandown Carnival for the first time, the Regatta will combine tradition with new attractions for its relaunch of the 165-year-old event.

Today features sea and shoreside fun for everyone plus a free live music event – Hooray for the Bay at Brown’s Golf and Blue Tiki Cafe.

Full details of today's events can be found HERE.

Tomorrow (Sunday) will be fun packed, getting underway from 10.30am, including market stalls lining Sandown Esplanade, magic shows and stage performances on the beach.

Don't miss the beach games, Punch and Judy and tug-of-war.

Bringing the weekend's events to an end will be a firework finale tomorrow at 9.30am from Culver Parade.

Paul Coueslant, chair of Sandown Carnival Association, said: "Our message is come along and enjoy our fantastic Bay this weekend.

"In the coming years, we’d love Sandown Bay Regatta to become an annual celebration of our award-winning sandy beaches, safe swimming and all the opportunities for people to get out on the water.

"We don’t see ourselves competing with Cowes Week and its sleek yachts and launches.

"Sandown Bay is all about attractions like paddleboarding, kayaking, building sandcastles and taking a dip… not to mention the chance to enjoy the beautiful natural environment all around us.

"The Bay really is a stunning asset right on our doorstep."

More information is at the Sandown Carnival website HERE and the Sandown's summer events online programme can be found HERE.

Map below courtesy of Sandown Carnival.

Isle of Wight County Press: