A remarkable festival unfolded on a sandbar, bringing together hundreds of people for 90 minutes of joy in the picturesque Isles of Scilly. The event, known as the Low Tide Event, occurs in the channel that separates the islands of Tresco and Bryher, an area that is normally submerged under approximately 20 feet (6 meters) of water. This year, the festival took place when the tides receded, allowing attendees to step onto the sandbar for a unique celebration.

Tom Matthews, one of the co-organizers of the festival, spoke to BBC Radio Cornwall, expressing the enchantment of having "a few hundred people gathering in the middle of the sea." As the fun unfolded, organizers used a klaxon to signal the participants when it was time to leave, ensuring their safety as the tide began to rise once again.

The festivities kicked off around 11:40 BST and offered a delightful array of picnic benches, makeshift bars set up on the back of tractors, and food being served directly from a boat at high tide. Describing the event as a "huge success," Matthews noted the wide age range of attendees, sharing that he spoke with an 87-year-old lady enjoying the festivities alongside her granddaughter, as well as a young mother with her six-month-old baby. He remarked on the palpable excitement in the air, coupled with what could only be described as "perfect weather" for the occasion.

"When you look out from the hillside, it resembles a stream of ants crawling onto the sandbar," Matthews elaborated. He emphasized how this event truly unites the islands, featuring stalls from both Tresco and Bryher and drawing visitors from across the Scilly Isles, Cornwall, and even further afield. "It's magical to see such a diverse group of people celebrating at such a unique event," he added. "We take great pride in what this festival has become and in the lasting memories it creates for those who visit. It's sure to be a cherished experience for many."

Matthews explained that these "super low tides" impact the two islands, which are approximately 200 meters (656 feet) apart, occurring twice each year. He noted, "Its probably the only festival that relies on air pressure, which influences how far the tide recedes and how long we can enjoy our time on the sandbar." The meticulous planning involved in the event includes closely monitoring weather forecasts, a task the organizers have honed over time. "Weve got it down to a fine art now; we basically take everything we need out there with us," he said.

Since its inception in 2015, the Low Tide Event has grown significantly, evolving into a beloved tradition that attracts visitors from around the globe. Initially, the organizers aimed to create something that was unlike any other festival in existence. Matthews humorously added, "We found ourselves in a position where we couldnt stop if we wanted to because people begin planning their holidays around it. It must be the worlds shortest pop-up festival." Local resident Issy Tibbs echoed this sentiment, stating that witnessing everybody come together in the middle of the channel transformed the gathering into an incredible event.

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