Events Calendar

Community

The Isle of Wight has a packed events calendar, particularly from May to September. The island's festivals and events draw visitors from across the UK and contribute significantly to the local economy.

The Isle of Wight Festival is the largest music event, held annually in June at Seaclose Park, Newport. It originated in 1968 and hosted legendary performances by Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan before being revived in 2002. It now attracts around 60,000 people over the weekend.

Cowes Week is the world's oldest and largest annual sailing regatta, held in late July and early August. Up to 40 daily races attract over 8,000 competitors and 100,000 spectators. The event transforms the town, with fireworks, live music and social events alongside the racing.

The Isle of Wight Walking Festival, held in May, is one of the largest walking festivals in the UK, offering guided walks for all abilities over two weeks. The Garlic Festival in August celebrates the island's garlic heritage with food, music and entertainment. The Ventnor Fringe festival brings theatre, comedy and music to the town each summer.

Other annual events include the Isle of Wight County Show in July, the Sandown Carnival, Ryde Carnival, Round the Island yacht race in June, the Isle of Wight Literary Festival, and the Cycling Festival in September. Jack Up the Eighties festival in Cowes and Bestival (when held on the island) have added to the music offering. Christmas events include Cowes Christmas Lights and Newport's Christmas market.