Schools Out! Local Events to Keep You Busy This Summer

The summer holidays are here, and there's no better time to get out and explore everything the Isle of Wight has to offer. Whether you're looking for free family days out, exciting festivals, outdoor adventures or unforgettable attractions, there's plenty happening across the island to keep everyone entertained from the end of July through August.

Dates for Your Diary

If you're planning days out, these are some of the biggest events happening across the Isle of Wight this summer:

17–26 July – Ventnor Fringe Festival

The island's award-winning arts festival rounds off July with theatre, comedy, circus acts, live music and plenty of family-friendly entertainment across Ventnor.

31 July–9 August – Wight Proms  

Enjoy ten days of outdoor entertainment at Northwood House in Cowes, featuring live music, comedy, musicals, opera and family performances. 1–2

1-2 August – Chale Show

A traditional country show packed with livestock, local produce, crafts, displays and activities for all ages. 

1–7 August – Cowes Week

One of the world's most famous sailing regattas returns, bringing spectacular racing, live entertainment, food stalls, family activities and a fantastic atmosphere to Cowes.

7 August – Cowes Week Fireworks

Round off Cowes Week by watching the spectacular evening fireworks display over the Solent after a day of family entertainment. 

15–16 August – Isle of Wight Garlic Festival

One of the island's biggest family events, featuring live music, celebrity chefs, children's entertainment, local food, craft stalls and, of course, plenty of garlic!

Make the Most of the Great Outdoors

With miles of coastline, countryside and woodland to explore, summer is the perfect time to enjoy the island's natural beauty.

Why not spend a day:

• Building sandcastles and paddling at Shanklin, Sandown or Appley Beach.
• Walking to St Catherine's Oratory for spectacular coastal views.
• Discovering wildlife at Ventnor Botanic Garden.
• Hunting for dinosaur fossils along Compton Bay.
• Enjoying a family picnic at Appuldurcombe or Robin Hill Country Park.

Many beaches also host seasonal family activities, beach games and watersports throughout the school holidays.

Family Attractions Everyone Will Love

The Isle of Wight is packed with attractions that are ideal for families of all ages.

Some favourites include:

• Blackgang Chine – the UK's oldest theme park, with rides, dinosaurs and magical lands to explore.
• Robin Hill Adventure Park – woodland adventures, outdoor play and family entertainment.
• Monkey Haven – home to rescued primates, reptiles and birds of prey.
• The Needles Landmark Attraction – chairlift rides, traditional amusements and stunning views.
• Carisbrooke Castle – meet the famous donkeys and discover centuries of island history.

Get Active This Summer

If your family enjoys a little adventure, there are plenty of ways to stay active.

Choose from:

• Kayaking and paddleboarding around the coast.
• Cycling on more than 200 miles of scenic trails.
• Sailing lessons and watersports.
• Woodland walks and nature trails.
• Mini golf, crazy golf and beach sports across the island.

Discover Local Arts and Culture

Summer also brings a fantastic programme of exhibitions, workshops and performances.

Don't miss:

• Creative family workshops at Quay Arts.
• Photography and history exhibitions at Dimbola Museum & Galleries.
• Local craft markets and pop-up exhibitions taking place throughout the holidays.

A Summer to Remember

Whether you're discovering hidden beaches, visiting favourite attractions or enjoying one of the island's many festivals, there's no shortage of ways to make memories this summer. With events taking place right through the end of July and across August, the Isle of Wight offers something for every age and every budget. So pack a picnic, grab the sun cream and make the most of the school holidays close to home.