Holiday time: A summer of fun in Ryde is just a quick 22-minutes away on Wightlink’s FastCat!
With its charming seaside appeal and miles of sandy beaches, Ryde promises endless fun and excitement. And because it’s just a quick 22-minute trip on Wightlink’s FastCat, you can hop over as often as you like!
Ryde will be buzzing with an array of events that are sure to delight. Immerse yourself in colourful carnivals and a vibrant Pride parade or watch some of the world’s best beach sports people in action. For something truly unique, don’t miss the new steampunk event. Whether you're seeking thrilling activities, vibrant celebrations, or simply a relaxing day by the sea, Ryde has it all. Get ready to make unforgettable memories!
What’s on
Live music takes centre stage with the Ticket to Ryde event over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend (25-27 May). This free-to-attend mini-festival promises a delightful blend of entertainment. Experience the uplifting sounds of live music performed by top-notch local bands and solo artists, including opportunities for emerging talents to shine. Over the years, Ticket to Ryde has become a premier platform for showcasing the Island’s musical prowess. The event returns for the August Bank Holiday weekend too, to coincide with the annual scooter rally.
June 8 sees one of the Island’s biggest rowing events of the summer, Ryde Rowing Club’s Hampshire and Dorset ARA Championship Regatta. On 15 June you can watch the annual Round the Island Yacht Race pass Ryde. It regularly attracts over 1,200 boats and around 10,000 sailors, making it one of the largest yacht races in the world. It’s a real spectacle on the sea.
On 30 June, Ryde plays host to Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day with aerial displays by two Spitfires and the Red Arrows.
Colourful costumes, exciting music and dance will be the order of the day when Mardi Gras returns to the town on 6 July.
Also on the 6 and 7 July weekend is the Nuku Challenge, a beach-themed fitness event. It is part of the South Island Sevens rugby tournament, which is back for its third year.
A new event for this summer is The Big Beach Weekender music and comedy festival, from 11 to 13 July. Over three nights, top comedians, bands and DJs will perform on the beach – including comedian Dylan Moran, Rhythm of the 90s and dance music legend Andy C.
On the same weekend (13 July) you’ll find the more tranquil Summer Garden Party in picturesque Vernon Square.
The following weekend (18-21 July) sees Isle of Wight Pride return to the town with a colourful parade, market stalls and entertainment from Kimberly Wyatt and Ginger Johnson. It’s the only Pride in the UK that takes place on the beach.
The best of beach sports comes to Ryde’s golden sands from 26 to 28 July when the Wight Wave Beach Fest hits town. Beach football, volleyball, rugby, footvolley, tennis, running, netball, fitness and music are all on the menu at this annual feast of beach sport.
August 3 sees Party on the Green come to town, with bands, dancing groups and a BBQ. Late August is carnival time, with the children’s parade on 24 August, the main Ryde Carnival on 29 August and the illuminated procession on 31 August.
Petrolheads descend on Ryde in September with the annual IW Classic Car Show, which will see hundreds of beautiful old vehicles in the town on the weekend of 7 and 8 September.
Later in the month (20-22 September) the inaugural Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival will see Victorian elegance meet futuristic innovation in a dazzling display.
And finally on 12 and 13 October the IW Bus and Coach Museum hosts the Wightrider weekend, featuring more classic vehicles and a chance to travel on heritage services.
Book your Wightlink tickets
Wightlink offers 20% off ferry crossings by foot, car and motorcycle for many of the events listed. Check out the website here for more information.