13 Best Festivals in the Isle of Wight
For a small(ish) island, there are so many festivals in the Isle of Wight for us to enjoy. Of course there’s the Isle of Wight Festival, but here are my favourites to discover.
The Isle of Wight is a picturesque island located known for its beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, and rich history, so it makes the perfect backdrop for great events. Of course the world famous Isle of Wight festival tops the list, the one so readily associated with the island, for obvious reasons. It’s the reason why Jimi Hendrix, The Doors and The Who have all performed there.
But beyond the famed Isle of Wight festival, the island has a great calendar of events that take place throughout the year. From foodie fests to yacht races and jazz, it’s quite eclectic, beyond just mainstream music that a lot of people associate with Isle of Wight festivals.
So let’s take a look at the other Isle of Wight celebrations worth making the ferry crossing over for.
1. Isle of Wight Festival
18-21 June 2026
The Isle of Wight Festival is one of those events I’d always heard about growing up. If you’re into music festivals, chances are it’s already on your radar too. It’s one of the UK’s most iconic festivals, first launching in 1968 and going on to become one of the biggest music events in the country.
I went a few years ago and had a brilliant weekend. What I love about the festival is just how much history it has. Back in 1970, an estimated 700,000 people descended on the island to see acts including Jimi Hendrix. The crowds were so huge that the government introduced the so-called Isle of Wight Act in 1971, making it illegal to hold open-air gatherings of more than 5,000 people on the island without a special licence. Thankfully, the festival made its comeback in 2002 and has been going strong ever since.
Since then, some of the biggest names in music have taken to the stage, from David Bowie and The Rolling Stones to Fleetwood Mac and The Who. These days it’s not just about the music either. There’s also plenty of things to do at the Isle of Wight Festival, so it’s important you pack the right stuff!
2. Isle of Wight Jazz Weekend
Every year, the Isle of Wight celebrates everything jazz for one weekend. For over a decade, this particular occasion has attracted lots of great jazz musicians to different venues across Newport.
Past editions of the festival have included the likes of Stacey Kent, Ian Shaw, Liane Carroll, Alan Barns, Sara Dowling and many others. The BBC Big Band has also performed here, showing how different types of jazz are all welcome here.
The atmosphere at this Isle of Wight festival is one of the best. It’s calm, warm and friendly, and everyone just gathers to enjoy the music. Also – you don’t have to be big on jazz to go, it’s just a great all-round festival in a charming town.
3. Ventnor Fringe Festival
Spread across several days, the Ventnor Fringe Festival is one of the best festivals on the Isle of Wight, which is why it’s won so many awards. It’s an art festival that started in 2010, growing to be a huge event celebrating theatre, comedy, cabaret, music, film screenings and more.
Beyond the typical artsy events at festivals, there’s more things to do here. You could wander round jewellery exhibitions, or watch puppetry in a launderette. It’s really quite random – but in a beautiful and interesting way. Also Ventnor is one of the best places to visit on the island.
4. Wolverton Folk and Blues Festival
As the name suggests, the Wolverton Folk and Blues Festival is all about folk and blues music. It’s a mix of local, up and coming acts alongside bigger names that come to the Isle of Wight celebrations for one day.
One of the best things about this Isle of Wight festival is that it supports local charities. . In the past, the event has shown its commitment to community welfare by supporting charitable causes. So, as attendees revel in the day’s festivities, they also contribute to meaningful initiatives.
5. Round the Island Race
The Round the Island Race is one of the most iconic and anticipated sailing events not just in the UK, but globally. There are crowds of over 1,400 and more than 15,000 sailors who gather at this event in the Isle of Wight, making it one of the biggest yacht races in the world.
This race sees a vast fleet of boats, ranging from professional class vessels to family-run boats, circumnavigate the island in a grand display of maritime skill and passion. It starts at Cowes, a town synonymous with sailing and renowned for its maritime heritage, and covers a course of approximately 50 miles.
While the event is undoubtedly competitive, with teams vying for the coveted Gold Roman Bowl among other prizes, the Round the Island Race is as much about community and celebration as it is about competition. The shores are lined with enthusiastic spectators, local festivals often coincide with the race weekend, and the atmosphere in Cowes is electric with excitement, making it a highlight of the summer season.
6. Riverfest
8th May 2027
Riverfest is celebrated every May in Newport, the capital of the island. It’s another great family-friendly festival in the Isle of Wight, with lots going on for all ages – most of the children’s activities being free too.
Diving deeper into the Island’s ecological wonders, the Medina Valley Centre crew plays a pivotal role at Riverfest. They invite curious minds to explore and understand the Island’s distinctive ecology. For the more adventurous, there’s a chance to unravel the mysteries of the Medina river’s mud, discovering the intriguing aquatic life and secrets it holds.
The festival has a really wholesome feel, which is arguably heightened through the fact Riverfest is attended by lots of local charities promoting their work. This is a wonderful opportunity for attendees to gain insight into the Island’s philanthropic endeavours and perhaps even find avenues to contribute.
7. Island Highland Gathering
26th July
This Isle of Wight festival isn’t just about music; it’s a full-blown Scottish spectacle. Top pipe and drum bands from across the UK come together in friendly competition, showcasing their talent and dedication.
The Island Highland Gathering is held at Northwood House, which is a beautiful building in itself with large grounds. During this celebration, you’re instantly transported from the Isle of Wight to the heart of Scotland, with the haunting melodies of bagpipes and rhythmic beats of drums resonating in the air.
There’s also a mini Highland games event offering both participants and viewers a taste of traditional Scottish sports and games. Tug-of-war, caber toss, and stone put are just some of the challenges you can watch and even take part in. Plus, there’s re-enactment groups recreating scenes from Scotland’s rich history, allowing visitors to step back in time and witness key moments and traditions of Scottish heritage.
8. Isle of Wight Carnival and Mardi Gras
Drawing inspiration from the renowned Mardi Gras celebrations of New Orleans, the Isle of Wight’s version is a unique blend of traditional British carnival culture and the vivacity of the famed American festival. The streets of the island come alive with elaborately decorated floats, dancers in dazzling costumes, and musicians playing tunes that make it impossible for anyone to stand still.
There’s also an impressive procession with lots of floats, which are usually themed reflecting current events, cultural celebrations, or just a burst of imaginative fun. The costumes are a significant highlight — think feathers, sequins, and rainbow-bright colours!
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9. Cowes Week
Cowes Week has been going forever. It started in 1826 and is now one of the longest-running (and successful) sporting events in the UK. It’s now the host of the largest sailing regatta in the world, attracting lots of people every year.
Throughout the week, more than 40 races are held daily, catering to a wide range of sailing vessels—from large Class 0 yachts to smaller day boats and everything in between. The competition is fierce, and the event’s storied history makes securing a victory all the more coveted.
The event culminates with the famous “Fastnet Race,” a challenging offshore race that starts at Cowes and takes competitors around the Fastnet Rock off the Irish coast before finishing in Plymouth.
10. Garlic Festival
15-16 August 2026
If you love garlic, or generally just good food, this is an unmissable festival in the Isle of Wight. From garlic beer to garlic ice cream, the versatility of garlic is explored and celebrated in deliciously inventive ways. The garlic is grown locally too, by a multi award-winning Garlic Farm.
The Garlic Festival also offers live music, craft stalls, and local produce displays – just in case you need a break from eating garlic upon garlic. There’s also plenty for families, like traditional fairground rides and educational tents.
The special event in Isle of Wight takes places in August each year, at The Fighting Cocks Crossroads, just outside of Newchurch.
11. Isle of Wight Literary Festival
Anyone that loves books, poetry, history, biographies, and generally the written word will love the Isle of Wight Literary Festival. It’s attracts a diverse array of authors, ranging from seasoned novelists to emerging voices.
Beyond the author interactions, the festival offers workshops for aspiring writers, enabling them to hone their craft under the guidance of established names in the industry. These sessions are invaluable, offering hands-on techniques, constructive critiques, and a chance to learn the nuances of the publishing world.
12. Isle of Wight Proms
31st July to 9th August 2026
The Isle of Wight Proms is where classical tunes meet beach vibes. Forget stuffy concert halls; here, the music goes with the sound of crashing waves and breezy trees.
One of the best parts about the festival is the “Picnic Proms” bit. You can just grab a blanket, pack your favourite snacks (or sneak in that cheeky bottle of wine), and get ready to relax under the open sky. Each night has its own flavour, from foot-tapping Broadway bangers to chill jazz sessions. And it’s not just about big names; the Proms give a shoutout to local rising stars too.
The festival takes place over eight days, where you’ll be able to enjoy everything from live classical music to comedy, drag, opera, dance, and much more.
13. Illuminate Festival
11th December to 1st January 2026
If you’re visiting the Isle of Wight in winter, Illuminate Festival is one of the most magical events on the calendar. Held at Robin Hill, this immersive light trail transforms the woodland park into a glowing wonderland filled with colourful installations, interactive displays and festive surprises around every corner.
The trail takes around 60–80 minutes to explore, making it ideal for families, couples and anyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit. As you wander through the illuminated pathways, you’ll discover spectacular light shows, atmospheric music and plenty of opportunities for photos along the way. There are also warming food and drink stops, including fire pits where you can toast marshmallows and soak up the cosy atmosphere.
Isle of Wight Festivals
One of the best things about the festivals in the Isle of Wight, is the fact that the beautiful location means you can make your festival experience into a proper holiday too.
Whether you have a day on the Isle of Wight, a weekend, or longer, the beaches on the Isle of Wight are amazing, there are some great IoW restaurants and here are 58 Brilliant Things to Do on the Isle of Wight that you’ll never get done on your first trip.
I’ve been probably around 20 times now, and with it being so easy to get across, I have no doubt I’ll be going again soon. See you there!