With the end of the summer holidays in sight and autumn just around the corner, you could be forgiven for thinking that there won’t be much to do on here in September. However, the Island’s events calendar bursts into new life as harvest is celebrated and local businesses put on events celebrating all that is wonderful about living here on the Isle of Wight.

Read our guide to some of our favourite events taking place this September…

Wolverton Manor Garden Fair 2nd & 3rd September

One of our favourites, we have been sponsoring the garden fair for years. Bringing people of all ages together in a beautiful setting, it’s a great place for garden inspiration, to browse local crafts and enjoy a pint of local ale from the real ale tent. Expect country fair entertainment – live shows, demonstrations, re-enactments, children’s activities, magic shows, and even a visit from the IW Donkey Sanctuary, West Wight Alpacas and Haven Falconry.

Cider & Cheese Festival 9th & 10th September

Cider and cheese together? On a steam engine? What’s not to love! The Cider & Cheese weekend held at The Isle of Wight Steam Railway in Havenstreet, is always a huge hit. There are over 30 ciders and a huge variety cheeses to choose from. If you can’t decide on just one there are cheese platters to pick with crunchy pickles and crackers which are washed down perfectly with a pint of cider – it’s the perfect way to while away an early autumn afternoon.

The Great Wight Bite 9th & 10th September

Food is definitely a theme in autumn and this year sees the exciting news of a brand new foodie event – The Great Wight Bite. Taking place at Northwood House on the 9th and 10th of September, you can hear from famous chefs including the writer and patron of the River Cottage, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. There will be tons of street food vendors to try and the demo stage will showcase the best of the Island’s local talented chefs.

Isle of Wight Classic Car Extravaganza 9th & 10th September

Classic cars from all over the world are showcased in this annual event (2023 is the events 22nd year running!) which takes place on Ryde Esplanade. There will be a spectacular collection of vintage, classic, custom and retro cars and other rare vehicles to marvel at.

Space Weekend at Tapnell Farm 16th & 17th September

One for the families, get set to blast off into a fun-filled time at Tapnell Farm in the West Wight. Enjoy the Wonderstruck Rocket Show, take part in a compressed air rocket workshop or just soak up the fun of the farm and the activities on offer. You can always combine a visit with a trip to The Cow restaurant – possibly the best burgers on the Island!

Experience the Isle of Wight Festival at Dimbola, until 27th September

Make the most of the last month of this unique exhibition held in Dimbola in Freshwater. A celebration of 21 years of the Isle of Wight Festival since it was relaunched by John Giddings in 2002. This will be the first ever retrospective exhibition of the Isle of Wight Festival that has featured great artists such as David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Amy Winehouse, Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen, Pink, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Paul McCartney, Blondie and so many more. ‘Experience – the Isle of Wight Festival 2002 to 2023’ will feature photographs from all years of the Isle of Wight Festival, along with atmospheric crowd shots from around the site – you might even spot yourself!