This year’s festival is also the first major UK festival of the year, kicking off the first full summer of festivals in three years.
Thursday saw the return of stages This Feeling, Electro Love, Hipshaker Lounge and Kashmir Cafe, prepping festival-goers for the weekend ahead with an eclectic selection of music and entertainment in the glorious sunshine.
In the Big Top, fans enjoyed sets by The RPJ Band, fronted by Rick Parfitt Jnr – son of the late Rick Parfitt of Status Quo-fame, The Compozers with their enigmatic take on classic anthems, and the voice Of M People, Heather Small. Headliners Happy Mondays closed out the night with their infectious Madchester sound, playing hits like Kinky Afro and Step On.
The festival’s promoter John Giddings said: ‘The sun is shining, our first campers are here and ready for the music to kick off soon! We’re back in June, where we belong, and very excited for the weekend ahead. To see 50,000 people in a field, loving an event that so many people have worked so hard on is just amazing!’
. Don't lose that
Getting the all-important wristband on arrival at the Isle of Wight Festival 2022 on the opening Thursday Photo: Emily Marcoveccino
. Here's to Syd
New arrivals walking under a tribute to Pink Floyd at Isle of Wight Festival 2022. Photo: David Rutherford
. Where's the campsite?
Arriving at the Isle of Wight Festival, 2022 Photo: Emily Marcoveccino
. Good vibes
New arrivals walking on to the site on the opening day of Isle of Wight Festival 2022. Photo: David Rutherford
. Stay safe
Putting on sunscreen on the opening Thursday of Isle of Wight Festival 2022 Photo: Sara Lincoln
. Something fruity
Somewhere for a refreshing drink on the opening Thursday of Isle of Wight Festival 2022 Photo: Emily Marcoveccino
. Up-and-coming indie band
The Native in the This Feeling tent on the opening Thursday of The Isle of Wight Festival, 2022. Photo: Sarah Louise Bennett
1. Don't lose that
Getting the all-important wristband on arrival at the Isle of Wight Festival 2022 on the opening Thursday Photo: Emily Marcoveccino
2. Here's to Syd
New arrivals walking under a tribute to Pink Floyd at Isle of Wight Festival 2022. Photo: David Rutherford
3. Where's the campsite?
Arriving at the Isle of Wight Festival, 2022 Photo: Emily Marcoveccino
4. Good vibes
New arrivals walking on to the site on the opening day of Isle of Wight Festival 2022. Photo: David Rutherford