22nd - 24th May 26
The Isle of Wight is ready to welcome you with a year full of unforgettable events. Here, dramatic coastlines meet peaceful countryside and charming seaside towns, creating a destination rich with experiences to enjoy whenever you choose to visit. Expect invigorating walks, family days out, vibrant festivals and scenic spots perfect for slowing down and soaking up the best of the South East.
This year, the island’s events calendar springs to life with the Isle of Wight Walking Festival, offering inspiring routes across cliffs, beaches and rolling landscapes. Families can enjoy the Great Railway Easter Hunt at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, where seasonal fun meets heritage charm. Meanwhile, the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary hosts spring wildlife activities perfect for younger visitors. Later in the year, the island celebrates a major sporting milestone with the 70th anniversary of the Isle of Wight Marathon, one of the UK’s longest‑running races.
Whether you're planning a nature‑filled escape, a weekend of culture or a family break by the sea, the Isle of Wight offers countless ways to get out, explore and create memories all year round. Let 2026 be the year you discover something new on this truly unique island.
To find out what's on in Isle of Wight today or this weekend, explore our featured list or use the 'what's on search box' above to narrow down your required date. On a budget? Look out for the free events (F) happening over 2026, alongside the plenty of fun activities for kids to do whether it's during the holidays or on a weekend break.
If you are travelling from outside the area for an event in the Isle of Wight, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs.
>>> Search & Book Isle of Wight Accommodation
The guide below shows our calendar of events on the Isle of Wight. Whether you are local or visiting the area, find what's happening near you by clicking the 'Map View' button.
Number of results: 32
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Heritage & History
Ventnor
Dickens House Party Weekend on the Isle of Wight Celebrate Charles Dickens at The Royal Hotel's Dickens House Party Weekend taking place from 27 February 2026 to 1 March 2026.
The weekend will celebrate Charles Dickens' works and strong ties…
Arts
Newport
Discover the magic of carnival and the creativity behind New Carnival's annual Mardi Gras, a children and young people focused parade at the beginning of July in Ryde, with environmental responsibility prioritised. This exhibition offers a rare…
Tour
Ryde
For a unique experience only offered on the South Coast, try a Hovercraft Experience Flights on your next visit to Portsmouth or the Isle of Wight
Free Event
Newtown
Birdwatching at Newtown National Nature Reserve Join the National Trust and step into the calm beauty of Newtown with a guided walk through its saltmarshes, meadows, and winding creeks.
Discover birds on guided walk This peaceful corner of…
Tour
Ryde
Discover more about the iconic hovercraft which takes passengers on their daily commute or for a day visit to the Isle of Wight from Portsmouth. The behind the scenes tour is offers the chance to get up close and personal and learn more about our…
Music
Bembridge
The show encompasses everything from that period, from the clothes that were worn, to flashbacks from television history, including: TV programmes, adverts and even clips from the original bands.
The Counterfeit Sixties presents a showcase of the…
Walking
Islandwide
Walk this way! The Isle of Wight Walking Festival, sponsored by Outdooractive, will return in Spring and Autumn 2026.
Arts
Islandwide
Open studios on the Isle of Wight Isle of Wight Open Studios continues to grow as a cornerstone of the Isle of Wight’s cultural calendar. From 15 - 25 May 2026, this vibrant 11 day celebration of art will once again open doors across the island,…
Festival
Cowes
Cowes Fringe is a vibrant celebration of music, theatre, and comedy that lights up the town of Cowes on the Isle of Wight annually in May. The festival fills local venues with an electrifying mix of performances, showcasing both local and national…
Festival
Porchfield
Three Rivers Festival returns to Durrants Farm, Porchfield, from 29–31 May 2026, with its first wave of artists now confirmed. This year's early announcement features Dub Pistols, Jaguar Skills, The Undercover Hippy, Born ina Barn, Fellowship of…
Sporting Events
Freshwater
Explore our island through running Dramatic cliffs, beautiful coves, a stately home, a world famous pop festival site… the Isle of Wight Festival of Running boasts an unparalleled location!
Full programme of running events The Isle of Wight…
Festival
Newport
The award winning Isle of Wight Festival is steeped in history and famed for mixing iconic legendary artists with the hottest up and coming acts.
Concert
Newport
The Ibiza Orchestra Experience: The Final Encore This incredible 26 piece orchestra will be performing some of the greatest hits from the famous white isle, for the very last time!
Expect an unforgettable night featuring:
26 piece…
Festivals
Newport
Sausage and Cider Festival at Robin Hill on the Isle of Wight Sausage and Cider Festival returns to the Isle of Wight on Saturday 4 July 2026.
HEADLINER TO BE ANNOUNCED!
Huge line up Kasabian tribute. UB40 tribute. Foo Fighters…
Sporting Event
Cowes
Isle of Wight sailing race The annual Round the Island Race, organised by the Island Sailing Club, is a one-day yacht race around the Isle of Wight. The race regularly attracts over 1,000 boats and thousands of sailors, making it one of the largest…
Show / Display
Northwood
Historic county show on the Isle of Wight Get ready for a field full of fun at The Royal Isle of Wight County Show. It’s 37 acres of entertainment – from adorable animals to exciting events and hands-on activities.
Since 1833 the show has…
Festival
Ventnor
Ventnor Fringe is a unique celebration of the arts, showcasing emerging and established talent across every creative discipline.
Carnival
Sandown
Children's Carnival in Sandown on the Isle of Wight Enjoy a fun-filled family day with Sandown Children's Carnival!
Carnival route To view the carnival route map, please visit the carnival website.
Family entertainment There will be a…
Sporting Event
Cowes
Since 1826 Cowes Week has played a key part in the British sporting summer calendar and is one of the UK's longest running and most successful sporting events.
Carnival
Newport
Newport Main Carnival on the Isle of Wight Carnival fever comes to the island's capital town, various locations around Newport.
Carnival route To view the carnival route map, please visit the carnival website.
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