Isle of Wight Tourist Guide - Articles
Isle of Wight Events
Below is a list of Isle of Wight events 2008. Whatever your interests, there is always plenty to see and do for all ages, including music festivals, carnivals, sailing regattas and beer festivals. The Isle of Wight is not just a holiday destination for the spring and summer, try a visit in the autumn and winter too - you will not be disappointed. Every year, the events on the Island get better and better and bigger and bigger, so read on to find out what Isle of Wight events are scheduled for 2008.
FEBRUARY 2008
Fri 1 Feb
The Blues Room featuring The Ian Siegal Band
A great night of blues at The Venue @ Ryde Theatre. Ian Siegal is THE hot property on the European Blues scene; a singer, songwriter and guitarist who is putting the UK back on the world Blues map. Dubbed by Mojo magazine as the cleverest writer and most magnetic performer of blues currently working in the UK, Ian has just brought out his latest album, Swagger to critical acclaim. "The closest thing I've heard to Howlin' Wolf" - Jeff Beck. Plus Support from The Amen Boogie Blues Band (Chicago Blues from the Medina Delta). Admission: £12 advance, £14 on door. 8pm - 11.30pm. Box Office: 01983 568099.
MARCH 2008
Sat 15 Mar
Spring Blues 2008 with The Papa George Band
The fourth annual Spring Blues comes to Ventnor Winter Gardens on Saturday 15th March, hosting another top quality line-up for blues lovers. The Papa George Band will be headlining the event. Born in 1953, within a stones throw of Londons Tin Pan Alley, Papa George has dedicated himself to playing live shows for over 30 years, around the blues circuits/festivals of the UK, Europe and USA. One of the UK's finest blues guitarists, Papa George 's styles range from deep south Delta blues on National Steel and Resonator guitars, to full on blues rock boogie - what the Fender Strat is all about! Also on the bill are one of the Island's top blues outfits, The Amen Boogie Blues Band, who have built up a strong set of Electric Chicago and Delta blues, recently having supported mainstream blues artistes such as Ian Siegal, Errol Linton and Eugene "Hideaway" Bridges. Damien Paul will open the evening with some fine acoustic blues, ably assisted by Stuart Woodley on Double Bass. Doors open at 7.30pm. Tickets: £12 Advance, £14 on the Door. Box Office: 01983 857581. Tickets also available from Waterstones bookshop, Newport 01983 527927 and Record Mania, Ryde 01983 615571.
Fri 21 - Mon 24
Easter Exhibition - "Four Artists in the Picture"
Isle of Wight artists, Becky Samuelson, Sandy Medany, Edna Coatsworth and Sarah Marsh display their work at Ventnor Botanic Garden. 10am - 4pm.
APRIL 2008
Sun 6 Apr
Isle of Wight Grand National & Ashey Scurry
The Annual Isle of Wight Grand National and Ashey Scurry will be taking place at West Ashey Farm in Ryde. Website: www.iw-scurry.co.uk
Fri 11 - Sun 13 Apr
Isle of Wight Jazz Festival
The Capital of Jazz in the Deep South of the UK (Ventnor) has a stunning line up for the Isle of Wight International Jazz Festival 2008 including the Maceo Parker Band featuring Dennis Rollins. Also appearing is Pete Longs 18 piece Big Swing Orchestra fronted by Liane Carroll and Ian Shaw, Tony Kofi Trio + 1, Gilad Atzmon, JazzCotech Dancers and the annual Messin Around Club Night this year featuring DJ Perry Louis with the Latin grooves of Manteca and the afro-soul sounds of Thabani. Derek Nash appearing with Protect the Beat, F-ire Collective with Barak Schmool & Finn Peters, Ian Shaw, Aydenne Simone, Cameron Pierre, Tom Cawleys Curios, Empirical and many many more acts. Isle of Wight Jazz Festival Website: www.iowjazzfestival.co.uk
Sat 26 - Sun 27 Apr
Mega Wheels & Classic Car Show
Taking place at the Garlic Festival site in Newchurch, this popular event features cars, bikes, buses, lorries and much more, including Isle of Wight Radio, live music, kid e karts, giant Scalextric, beer tent and great food & drink. Superb family fun! Open 10am - 5pm each day. Admission: Adults - £5, Children - £2.
Sat 26 - Sun 27 Apr
Robin Hill Garden Show
The 2008 Robin Hill Garden Show promises to be one of the Islands top gardening events. Two popular Isle of Wight charities will benefit from the event - The Kerry Green Trust and the IW Air Ambulance. The fun packed weekend includes Wight Wizards Dog Agility, Robin Hill Falconry, Adams Axemen, IW Gundog Display, Morris Dancing, Medina Marching Band, Maypole Dancing and cookery demonstrations by some of the Islands top chefs in the Food Theatre inside the Tastes of the Island marquee. Newly appointed IOW High Sheriff, Alan Titchmarsh will be appearing on the Saturday to judge several displays and competitions and to take part in a culinary challenge in the Food Theatre. 10am - 5pm. Admission: Adults - £6.50, Children (under four) - Free, Disabled & Carers - £5.50.
MAY 2008
Sat 3 - Sun 18 May
Isle of Wight Walking Festival
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival has been held on the Island every May since 1999 and is the largest walking festival in the UK. It is an extremely popular event and attracts huge numbers from all over the world.The festival offers more than 100 guided walks that cater for all ages and abilities. Included in the festival is "Walk the Wight", a long distance sponsored walk, with proceeds going to the Earl Mountbatten Hospice. Isle of Wight Walking Festival Website: www.isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk
Sun 4 May
Isle of Wight Randonnee
This year's IOW Randonnee (the 24th!) will be ridden in a clockwise direction with a choice of 100km and 55km rides. No entry fee and no need to pre-register. Start at any of the checkpoints on the day. The event attracts around 1500 cyclists each year! Full details on the website: www.cycleisland.co.uk
Fri 9 - Sun 11 May
Ribex
Ribex is held at Cowes Yacht Haven and is the only boat show in the world that is dedicated exclusively to Rigid Inflatable Boats. Ribex Website: www.ribexhibitions.co.uk
Fri 23 - Mon 26 May
Big Wight Mountain Bike Festival
This Mountain Bike Festival has established itself as a don't miss event for hundreds of bikers and its unique combination of superb riding, events, on site camping, catering, bar and entertainment have earned it a reputation as the best party on the calendar for mountain bikers! Big Wight Mountain Bike Festival Website: www.trailbreak.co.uk/bigwight
Fri 30 May - Sun 1 June
Yarmouth Old Gaffers Festival
Three days of free entertainment, craft stalls, live music and much more. The Old Gaffers, so called because of the traditional gaff rig, travel from all over the country to participate in these wonderful festivities held in the ancient town of Yarmouth. Yarmouth Old Gaffers Festival Website: www.yarmoutholdgaffersfestival.co.uk
JUNE 2008
Fri 13 - Sun 15 June
Isle of Wight Festival
Major UK music festival held at Seaclose Park, Newport. Acts this year include: The Police, Sex Pistols, Feeder, Sugababes, The Kaiser Chiefs, Amy MacDonald, Nerd, Ian Brown, The Kooks, KT Tunstall, Iggy & The Stooges, The Hoosiers, The Zutons, The Enemy, James, Kate Nash, Scouting for Girls, The Duke Spirit, Curved Air, Dave Stewart, Ida Maria, Laura Critchley, The Eyes, Sondura, Wills & The Willing, Paul Newsome, Florence K and The Stone Gods, plus tribute bands Bjorn Again and Suspiciously Elvis. Isle of Wight Festival Website: www.isleofwightfestival.com
Sat 28 June
Round The Island Race
JPMorgan Asset Management Round The Island Race is the largest and most famous yachting race in the world. The race starts and finishes at Cowes and covers a 50 mile course around the Isle of Wight. Some of the biggest names in the sailing world compete with weekend sailors and family crews in this annual yachting extravaganza. Round The Island Race Website: www.roundtheisland.org.uk
JULY 2008
Sat 26 July
Mottistone Manor Jazz
Celebrate 21 years of jazz at Mottistone Manor Garden. Bring a picnic, enjoy the jazz and dance the night away. Many people like to dress in the style of the 1930s and you are welcome to bring picnic tables and chairs, or just a rug if you prefer. We regret that BBQs and flambeaux are not permitted. 6.30pm - 11pm. Entrance fee: £18.50 - booking is essential. Tickets on sale from March 1st 2008. Contact: 01983 740689 or [email protected]
Sat 26 July
Paul Weller at Osborne House
Former front man of The Jam and Modfather Paul Weller in concert at Osborne House in East Cowes. Special guests include The Rifles and Arno Carstens. Live sets by Hipshaker resident DJs. General admission: £32.50. Tickets available from April 21 from: www.ticketzone.co.uk or 08705 321 321 (Ticket Hotline). Car parks open at 4pm, arena opens at 6pm, show starts at 7.30pm.
Sun 27 July
Girls Aloud at Osborne House
One of the most successful female groups of the decade and Popstars talent show winners, Girls Aloud (plus special guests) in concert at Osborne House in East Cowes. General admission: £29.50. Tickets available from April 21 from: www.ticketzone.co.uk or 08705 321 321 (Ticket Hotline). Car parks open at 4pm, arena opens at 6pm, show starts at 7.30pm.
Tue 29 July
Sandown Carnival (Childrens Procession)
Website: www.sandowncarnival.com
Wed 30 July
Sandown Carnival (Main Procession)
Website: www.sandowncarnival.com
AUGUST 2008
Sat 2 - Sat 9 Aug
Cowes Week
Cowes Week is the largest of all the Isle of Wight events, with around 1000 boats and 8500 competitors taking part in this world famous sailing regatta. With its exciting racing schedule and superb shore side activities, Cowes Week offers something for everyone. Dont miss the spectacular fireworks display on Friday (8th). Cowes Week Website: www.skandiacowesweek.co.uk
Fri 8 Aug
Flying Display by The Red Arrows
The world famous Royal Air Force aerobatic team, The Red Arrows will be performing their unique skills over the Solent during this years Skandia Cowes Week. Time of display to be confirmed.
Sun 10 Aug
Ventnor Cricket Club v. Lashings World XI
The world famous Lashings World XI take on the Islands Ventnor Cricket Club at Steephill Road (next to the Botanic Garden) in Ventnor. The Lashings team include past and present international cricketers such as Chris Cairns, Shahid Afridi and Herschelle Gibbs. They are captained by former West Indies batsman, Richie Richardson. The match commences at 2.30pm. Tel: 01983 740131 for further details.
Sat 16 - Sun 17 Aug
Garlic Festival
The Garlic Festival is held at Newchurch Showground, next to the Fighting Cocks pub at Arreton on the Newport to Sandown road. The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival is one of the largest events on the Island and attracts over 20,000 visitors each year. Dont be fooled by the name of the event, this is much more than just garlic - it is two days packed more than 300 stalls selling food and drink, with arts & crafts, music, fun, attractions and much more. 70's pop icon, Alvin Stardust will be appearing at this year's event, plus the Apple Beatles and several top local acts. Garlic Festival Website: www.garlic-festival.co.uk
Fri 22 - Sun 24 Aug
Cowes - Torquay - Cowes Powerboat Race
The most famous power boat endurance race - the Cowes-Torquay-Cowes will be reintroduced to the sporting calendar in 2008 by Powerboat P1 Management Ltd, organisers of the Powerboat P1 World Championship. The CTC, which first ran in 1961, will take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend and is expected to attract worldwide interest. Website: www.powerboatp1.com/ctc/
Fri 22 - Mon 25 Aug
Island Steam Show
The Isle of Wight Steam Railway is proud to present its annual Island Steam Show - the premier steam event on the Isle of Wight. The Island Steam Show is a fun day out for the whole family! Website: www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk
Fri 22 - Mon 25 Aug
Isle of Wight Scooter Rally
Held at Smallbrook Stadium in Ryde, this is widely recognised as the biggest scooter event in the world. A fun-packed weekend for the scooter enthusiast culminating with a round the Island ride-out, this is an event that just has to be attended by every self-respecting scooterist. For more information, visit: www.vfmscoot.co.uk
Wed 27th Aug
Sandown Carnival (Illuminated Procession)
Website: www.sandowncarnival.com
SEPTEMBER 2008
Fri 5 - Sun 7 Sept
Bestival
Sunday Best's Bestival is held at Robin Hill Country Park on the outskirts of Newport and has been voted the "Best Medium Sized Festival" at the UK Festival Awards for the third year running. Acts performing at this year's Bestival include: Amy Winehouse, Underworld, The Sugarhill Gang, Hot Chip, Paul Heaton, Will Young, The Coral, Stereo MCs, My Bloody Valentine, The Human League, George Clinton, Gary Numan, The Flaming Lips, Pendulum, Jamie Lidell, Kid Creole & the Coconuts, The Cuban Brothers, 808 State, Chas & Dave, King Creosote, Scroobius Pip & many more. Bestival Website: www.bestival.net
Thu 11 - Sun 14 Sept
Little Britain Challenge Cup
The Little Britain Challenge Cup is the largest corporate yachting regatta in Europe, as well as the biggest UK gathering of senior figureheads from the construction and property industry. The regatta is held at Cowes and is one of the industry's top social sporting events of the year. Little Britain Challenge Cup Website: www.littlebritain.co.uk
Sat 13 - Sun 14 Sept
International Charity Classic Car Extravaganza
This fantastic two-day event is now in its seventh year and promises to be the biggest and best yet. Held at the superb venues of Newport Quay on the Saturday (10am-5pm) and Ryde Esplanade on the Sunday (10.30am-5pm), there are hundreds of British and foreign vintage, classic, custom, retro and oddball cars and motorcycles expected to attend from all over the UK. All proceeds will go to the Earl Mountbatten Hospice and the Riverside Centre at Newport. Tel: 020 8439 7871 for further details.
Sat 13 - Sun 21 Sept
Isle of Wight Cycling Festival
Every year the Island hosts the Isle of Wight Cycling Festival, which features several different cycling events for all abilities and disciplines. Races include an on-road 65 mile (or 45-mile shorter route) round the Island race known as "Cycle the Wight", the West Wight Triathlon, Single Cycle, the Wight Challenge, Sink or Swim (the cycle the Medina fun race.) For the more resilient cyclist, the 3, 7 and 14 hills challenges known as "The Hills Killer" are a real test of stamina. For full details, visit Isle of Wight Cycling Festival Website: www.sunseaandcycling.com
Fri 19 - Sun 21 Sept
White Air Extreme Sports Festival
Water, beach, urban, air and land sports, plus art and live music stage is all on offer at this years White Air Extreme Sports Festival. With over 40 countries competing, 500 competitors, including world champions in 18 action sports and 21 have a go! public sports all at one place at one time, this is an Isle of Wight event not to be missed! White Air Extreme Sports Festival Website: www.whiteair.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2008
Wed 5 Nov
Sandown November 5th Carnival Celebrations
This fantastic lantern parade through the colourfully lit streets of Sandowns town centre, features costumes, floats, bands and much more. The finale of this amazing evenings events is a spectacular firework display from Sandown pier and great music and food. Website: www.sandowncarnival.com
Sat 22 - Sun 23 Nov
Victorian Christmas Weekend at Osborne House
Step back in time and experience the spirit of a traditional Victorian Christmas. Delight in the Victorian sideshows, enjoy horse and carriage rides and carol singing. Shop for festive gifts in a wintry street scene and see Queen Victoria's home dressed for Christmas. 11am - 4pm. For further details phone: 0870 333 1181.
DECEMBER 2008
Sat 13 Dec
Newport Christmas Illuminated Carnival
Starting from Matalan car park.
FEBRUARY 2008
Fri 1 Feb
The Blues Room featuring The Ian Siegal Band
A great night of blues at The Venue @ Ryde Theatre. Ian Siegal is THE hot property on the European Blues scene; a singer, songwriter and guitarist who is putting the UK back on the world Blues map. Dubbed by Mojo magazine as the cleverest writer and most magnetic performer of blues currently working in the UK, Ian has just brought out his latest album, Swagger to critical acclaim. "The closest thing I've heard to Howlin' Wolf" - Jeff Beck. Plus Support from The Amen Boogie Blues Band (Chicago Blues from the Medina Delta). Admission: £12 advance, £14 on door. 8pm - 11.30pm. Box Office: 01983 568099.
MARCH 2008
Sat 15 Mar
Spring Blues 2008 with The Papa George Band
The fourth annual Spring Blues comes to Ventnor Winter Gardens on Saturday 15th March, hosting another top quality line-up for blues lovers. The Papa George Band will be headlining the event. Born in 1953, within a stones throw of Londons Tin Pan Alley, Papa George has dedicated himself to playing live shows for over 30 years, around the blues circuits/festivals of the UK, Europe and USA. One of the UK's finest blues guitarists, Papa George 's styles range from deep south Delta blues on National Steel and Resonator guitars, to full on blues rock boogie - what the Fender Strat is all about! Also on the bill are one of the Island's top blues outfits, The Amen Boogie Blues Band, who have built up a strong set of Electric Chicago and Delta blues, recently having supported mainstream blues artistes such as Ian Siegal, Errol Linton and Eugene "Hideaway" Bridges. Damien Paul will open the evening with some fine acoustic blues, ably assisted by Stuart Woodley on Double Bass. Doors open at 7.30pm. Tickets: £12 Advance, £14 on the Door. Box Office: 01983 857581. Tickets also available from Waterstones bookshop, Newport 01983 527927 and Record Mania, Ryde 01983 615571.
Fri 21 - Mon 24
Easter Exhibition - "Four Artists in the Picture"
Isle of Wight artists, Becky Samuelson, Sandy Medany, Edna Coatsworth and Sarah Marsh display their work at Ventnor Botanic Garden. 10am - 4pm.
APRIL 2008
Sun 6 Apr
Isle of Wight Grand National & Ashey Scurry
The Annual Isle of Wight Grand National and Ashey Scurry will be taking place at West Ashey Farm in Ryde. Website: www.iw-scurry.co.uk
Fri 11 - Sun 13 Apr
Isle of Wight Jazz Festival
The Capital of Jazz in the Deep South of the UK (Ventnor) has a stunning line up for the Isle of Wight International Jazz Festival 2008 including the Maceo Parker Band featuring Dennis Rollins. Also appearing is Pete Longs 18 piece Big Swing Orchestra fronted by Liane Carroll and Ian Shaw, Tony Kofi Trio + 1, Gilad Atzmon, JazzCotech Dancers and the annual Messin Around Club Night this year featuring DJ Perry Louis with the Latin grooves of Manteca and the afro-soul sounds of Thabani. Derek Nash appearing with Protect the Beat, F-ire Collective with Barak Schmool & Finn Peters, Ian Shaw, Aydenne Simone, Cameron Pierre, Tom Cawleys Curios, Empirical and many many more acts. Isle of Wight Jazz Festival Website: www.iowjazzfestival.co.uk
Sat 26 - Sun 27 Apr
Mega Wheels & Classic Car Show
Taking place at the Garlic Festival site in Newchurch, this popular event features cars, bikes, buses, lorries and much more, including Isle of Wight Radio, live music, kid e karts, giant Scalextric, beer tent and great food & drink. Superb family fun! Open 10am - 5pm each day. Admission: Adults - £5, Children - £2.
Sat 26 - Sun 27 Apr
Robin Hill Garden Show
The 2008 Robin Hill Garden Show promises to be one of the Islands top gardening events. Two popular Isle of Wight charities will benefit from the event - The Kerry Green Trust and the IW Air Ambulance. The fun packed weekend includes Wight Wizards Dog Agility, Robin Hill Falconry, Adams Axemen, IW Gundog Display, Morris Dancing, Medina Marching Band, Maypole Dancing and cookery demonstrations by some of the Islands top chefs in the Food Theatre inside the Tastes of the Island marquee. Newly appointed IOW High Sheriff, Alan Titchmarsh will be appearing on the Saturday to judge several displays and competitions and to take part in a culinary challenge in the Food Theatre. 10am - 5pm. Admission: Adults - £6.50, Children (under four) - Free, Disabled & Carers - £5.50.
MAY 2008
Sat 3 - Sun 18 May
Isle of Wight Walking Festival
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival has been held on the Island every May since 1999 and is the largest walking festival in the UK. It is an extremely popular event and attracts huge numbers from all over the world.The festival offers more than 100 guided walks that cater for all ages and abilities. Included in the festival is "Walk the Wight", a long distance sponsored walk, with proceeds going to the Earl Mountbatten Hospice. Isle of Wight Walking Festival Website: www.isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk
Sun 4 May
Isle of Wight Randonnee
This year's IOW Randonnee (the 24th!) will be ridden in a clockwise direction with a choice of 100km and 55km rides. No entry fee and no need to pre-register. Start at any of the checkpoints on the day. The event attracts around 1500 cyclists each year! Full details on the website: www.cycleisland.co.uk
Fri 9 - Sun 11 May
Ribex
Ribex is held at Cowes Yacht Haven and is the only boat show in the world that is dedicated exclusively to Rigid Inflatable Boats. Ribex Website: www.ribexhibitions.co.uk
Fri 23 - Mon 26 May
Big Wight Mountain Bike Festival
This Mountain Bike Festival has established itself as a don't miss event for hundreds of bikers and its unique combination of superb riding, events, on site camping, catering, bar and entertainment have earned it a reputation as the best party on the calendar for mountain bikers! Big Wight Mountain Bike Festival Website: www.trailbreak.co.uk/bigwight
Fri 30 May - Sun 1 June
Yarmouth Old Gaffers Festival
Three days of free entertainment, craft stalls, live music and much more. The Old Gaffers, so called because of the traditional gaff rig, travel from all over the country to participate in these wonderful festivities held in the ancient town of Yarmouth. Yarmouth Old Gaffers Festival Website: www.yarmoutholdgaffersfestival.co.uk
JUNE 2008
Fri 13 - Sun 15 June
Isle of Wight Festival
Major UK music festival held at Seaclose Park, Newport. Acts this year include: The Police, Sex Pistols, Feeder, Sugababes, The Kaiser Chiefs, Amy MacDonald, Nerd, Ian Brown, The Kooks, KT Tunstall, Iggy & The Stooges, The Hoosiers, The Zutons, The Enemy, James, Kate Nash, Scouting for Girls, The Duke Spirit, Curved Air, Dave Stewart, Ida Maria, Laura Critchley, The Eyes, Sondura, Wills & The Willing, Paul Newsome, Florence K and The Stone Gods, plus tribute bands Bjorn Again and Suspiciously Elvis. Isle of Wight Festival Website: www.isleofwightfestival.com
Sat 28 June
Round The Island Race
JPMorgan Asset Management Round The Island Race is the largest and most famous yachting race in the world. The race starts and finishes at Cowes and covers a 50 mile course around the Isle of Wight. Some of the biggest names in the sailing world compete with weekend sailors and family crews in this annual yachting extravaganza. Round The Island Race Website: www.roundtheisland.org.uk
JULY 2008
Sat 26 July
Mottistone Manor Jazz
Celebrate 21 years of jazz at Mottistone Manor Garden. Bring a picnic, enjoy the jazz and dance the night away. Many people like to dress in the style of the 1930s and you are welcome to bring picnic tables and chairs, or just a rug if you prefer. We regret that BBQs and flambeaux are not permitted. 6.30pm - 11pm. Entrance fee: £18.50 - booking is essential. Tickets on sale from March 1st 2008. Contact: 01983 740689 or [email protected]
Sat 26 July
Paul Weller at Osborne House
Former front man of The Jam and Modfather Paul Weller in concert at Osborne House in East Cowes. Special guests include The Rifles and Arno Carstens. Live sets by Hipshaker resident DJs. General admission: £32.50. Tickets available from April 21 from: www.ticketzone.co.uk or 08705 321 321 (Ticket Hotline). Car parks open at 4pm, arena opens at 6pm, show starts at 7.30pm.
Sun 27 July
Girls Aloud at Osborne House
One of the most successful female groups of the decade and Popstars talent show winners, Girls Aloud (plus special guests) in concert at Osborne House in East Cowes. General admission: £29.50. Tickets available from April 21 from: www.ticketzone.co.uk or 08705 321 321 (Ticket Hotline). Car parks open at 4pm, arena opens at 6pm, show starts at 7.30pm.
Tue 29 July
Sandown Carnival (Childrens Procession)
Website: www.sandowncarnival.com
Wed 30 July
Sandown Carnival (Main Procession)
Website: www.sandowncarnival.com
AUGUST 2008
Sat 2 - Sat 9 Aug
Cowes Week
Cowes Week is the largest of all the Isle of Wight events, with around 1000 boats and 8500 competitors taking part in this world famous sailing regatta. With its exciting racing schedule and superb shore side activities, Cowes Week offers something for everyone. Dont miss the spectacular fireworks display on Friday (8th). Cowes Week Website: www.skandiacowesweek.co.uk
Fri 8 Aug
Flying Display by The Red Arrows
The world famous Royal Air Force aerobatic team, The Red Arrows will be performing their unique skills over the Solent during this years Skandia Cowes Week. Time of display to be confirmed.
Sun 10 Aug
Ventnor Cricket Club v. Lashings World XI
The world famous Lashings World XI take on the Islands Ventnor Cricket Club at Steephill Road (next to the Botanic Garden) in Ventnor. The Lashings team include past and present international cricketers such as Chris Cairns, Shahid Afridi and Herschelle Gibbs. They are captained by former West Indies batsman, Richie Richardson. The match commences at 2.30pm. Tel: 01983 740131 for further details.
Sat 16 - Sun 17 Aug
Garlic Festival
The Garlic Festival is held at Newchurch Showground, next to the Fighting Cocks pub at Arreton on the Newport to Sandown road. The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival is one of the largest events on the Island and attracts over 20,000 visitors each year. Dont be fooled by the name of the event, this is much more than just garlic - it is two days packed more than 300 stalls selling food and drink, with arts & crafts, music, fun, attractions and much more. 70's pop icon, Alvin Stardust will be appearing at this year's event, plus the Apple Beatles and several top local acts. Garlic Festival Website: www.garlic-festival.co.uk
Fri 22 - Sun 24 Aug
Cowes - Torquay - Cowes Powerboat Race
The most famous power boat endurance race - the Cowes-Torquay-Cowes will be reintroduced to the sporting calendar in 2008 by Powerboat P1 Management Ltd, organisers of the Powerboat P1 World Championship. The CTC, which first ran in 1961, will take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend and is expected to attract worldwide interest. Website: www.powerboatp1.com/ctc/
Fri 22 - Mon 25 Aug
Island Steam Show
The Isle of Wight Steam Railway is proud to present its annual Island Steam Show - the premier steam event on the Isle of Wight. The Island Steam Show is a fun day out for the whole family! Website: www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk
Fri 22 - Mon 25 Aug
Isle of Wight Scooter Rally
Held at Smallbrook Stadium in Ryde, this is widely recognised as the biggest scooter event in the world. A fun-packed weekend for the scooter enthusiast culminating with a round the Island ride-out, this is an event that just has to be attended by every self-respecting scooterist. For more information, visit: www.vfmscoot.co.uk
Wed 27th Aug
Sandown Carnival (Illuminated Procession)
Website: www.sandowncarnival.com
SEPTEMBER 2008
Fri 5 - Sun 7 Sept
Bestival
Sunday Best's Bestival is held at Robin Hill Country Park on the outskirts of Newport and has been voted the "Best Medium Sized Festival" at the UK Festival Awards for the third year running. Acts performing at this year's Bestival include: Amy Winehouse, Underworld, The Sugarhill Gang, Hot Chip, Paul Heaton, Will Young, The Coral, Stereo MCs, My Bloody Valentine, The Human League, George Clinton, Gary Numan, The Flaming Lips, Pendulum, Jamie Lidell, Kid Creole & the Coconuts, The Cuban Brothers, 808 State, Chas & Dave, King Creosote, Scroobius Pip & many more. Bestival Website: www.bestival.net
Thu 11 - Sun 14 Sept
Little Britain Challenge Cup
The Little Britain Challenge Cup is the largest corporate yachting regatta in Europe, as well as the biggest UK gathering of senior figureheads from the construction and property industry. The regatta is held at Cowes and is one of the industry's top social sporting events of the year. Little Britain Challenge Cup Website: www.littlebritain.co.uk
Sat 13 - Sun 14 Sept
International Charity Classic Car Extravaganza
This fantastic two-day event is now in its seventh year and promises to be the biggest and best yet. Held at the superb venues of Newport Quay on the Saturday (10am-5pm) and Ryde Esplanade on the Sunday (10.30am-5pm), there are hundreds of British and foreign vintage, classic, custom, retro and oddball cars and motorcycles expected to attend from all over the UK. All proceeds will go to the Earl Mountbatten Hospice and the Riverside Centre at Newport. Tel: 020 8439 7871 for further details.
Sat 13 - Sun 21 Sept
Isle of Wight Cycling Festival
Every year the Island hosts the Isle of Wight Cycling Festival, which features several different cycling events for all abilities and disciplines. Races include an on-road 65 mile (or 45-mile shorter route) round the Island race known as "Cycle the Wight", the West Wight Triathlon, Single Cycle, the Wight Challenge, Sink or Swim (the cycle the Medina fun race.) For the more resilient cyclist, the 3, 7 and 14 hills challenges known as "The Hills Killer" are a real test of stamina. For full details, visit Isle of Wight Cycling Festival Website: www.sunseaandcycling.com
Fri 19 - Sun 21 Sept
White Air Extreme Sports Festival
Water, beach, urban, air and land sports, plus art and live music stage is all on offer at this years White Air Extreme Sports Festival. With over 40 countries competing, 500 competitors, including world champions in 18 action sports and 21 have a go! public sports all at one place at one time, this is an Isle of Wight event not to be missed! White Air Extreme Sports Festival Website: www.whiteair.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2008
Wed 5 Nov
Sandown November 5th Carnival Celebrations
This fantastic lantern parade through the colourfully lit streets of Sandowns town centre, features costumes, floats, bands and much more. The finale of this amazing evenings events is a spectacular firework display from Sandown pier and great music and food. Website: www.sandowncarnival.com
Sat 22 - Sun 23 Nov
Victorian Christmas Weekend at Osborne House
Step back in time and experience the spirit of a traditional Victorian Christmas. Delight in the Victorian sideshows, enjoy horse and carriage rides and carol singing. Shop for festive gifts in a wintry street scene and see Queen Victoria's home dressed for Christmas. 11am - 4pm. For further details phone: 0870 333 1181.
DECEMBER 2008
Sat 13 Dec
Newport Christmas Illuminated Carnival
Starting from Matalan car park.
