What’s On Guide
- Isle of Wight Festival
Don’t miss any events during your visit
Our what’s on guide is updated throughout the year, bringing you events to suit all ages and interests across the Isle of Wight. Annual favourites include the Isle of Wight Festival and Cowes Week, the famous Round the Island Yacht Race, Walk the Wight and of course the Garlic Festival.
Every month brings countless opportunities to enjoy live music at venues across the Island, from pubs like The Spyglass Inn to The Wight Proms and Jack Up Events. During the summer months, don’t miss our historic town carnivals and local favourites, such as The Chale Show and the Royal Isle of Wight County Show.
Many of our leading attractions also host special events to keep you entertained, including the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, Blackgang Chine, Robin Hill and The Needles Landmark Attraction.
Our Isle of Wight events guide is always packed with diverse and entertaining activities, so you don’t need to miss a thing.
What's on all year round
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Bear Photography Workshops
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary
,
Sandown
|
4 April
- 19 September 2026
Join the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary’s new Bear Photography Workshops – a half-day experience perfect for beginners, keen amateurs, or anyone with a passion for nature. Using either a DSLR or just your mobile phone, you’ll enjoy exclusive, safely sectioned access to photograph the resident bears from unique vantage points. With expert tuition from professional wildlife photographer KJ Dudley, you’ll learn simple techniques to capture expressive, dynamic images while building confidence behind the camera. Dates Available:
Isle of Wight Open Studios Showcase
Quay Arts Centre
,
Newport
|
18 April
- 30 May 2026
To celebrate Isle of Wight Open Studios, Quay Arts presents a special showcase exhibition in the West Gallery, featuring work by participating 2026 artists. The exhibition highlights the rich diversity of art and craft across the Island, offering a preview of the talent involved in this year’s event. Running from 15th to 25th May, Isle of Wight Open Studios sees over 200 artists open their doors to visitors across the Island. Organised by a dedicated volunteer-led Community Interest Company, the event brings together creatives from all corners of the Isle of Wight to celebrate and share their work.
Isle of Wight Spring Walking Festival
Islandwide
|
9 May
- 17 May 2026
The Spring Isle of Wight Walking Festival takes place in May, offering a sunny adventure through the Island’s unique landscape. Walkers can expect routes through the countryside and along the coast, each vista as breathtaking as the next and home to thriving wildlife and colourful springtime flora and fauna. This will also include the popular ‘Walk the Wight‘ fundraising event in support of the local hospice, Mountbatten.
Real Ale Festival at The Sportsman's Rest
The Sportsman’s Rest
,
Newport
|
14 May
- 17 May 2026
The Real Ale Festival returns to The Sportsman’s Rest, running from Thursday, 14th May to Sunday, 17th May 2026. The bar will be open daily from 11:00 until 22:00, offering plenty of time to enjoy the festival atmosphere throughout the weekend. Food will be available every day, with service times as follows: To round off the weekend, live music will be provided by Ben Stubbs on Sunday, 17th May, performing from 13:00 to 15:00. A relaxed weekend of real ales, good food and live entertainment in the heart of the Isle of Wight.
Isle of Wight Open Studios
Islandwide
|
15 May
- 25 May 2026
Embark on a journey of artistic discovery within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve! During the annual Isle of Wight Open Studios event. You can wander through studios, local venues, pop-up exhibitions and galleries, where you’ll encounter a rich tapestry of artistic expression. From contemporary marvels to traditional treasures, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, admission is free at all venues. Immerse yourself in the world of painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, and more, and meet the makers behind the art.
Bargeman's Real Ale & Cider Festival
The Bargeman’s Rest
,
Newport
|
15 May
- 17 May 2026
The Bargeman’s Real Ale & Cider Festival is back! Taking place from Friday 15th to Sunday 17th May, the festival is part of Rydabus and the Isle of Wight North East Ale Trail (N.E.A.T.). Expect a fantastic selection all weekend long: Plus, enjoy 15% off any ale or cider with a Rydabus Programme. A perfect excuse for a riverside pint (or two).
Summer Cider & Sausages
Isle of Wight Steam Railway
,
Havenstreet
|
16 May
- 17 May 2026
A brand new Summer Cider Festival at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, where you can enjoy a selection of fruity, refreshing ciders and sizzling sausages. With live music across the weekend, it is the perfect way to relax in the sunshine.
