The Isle of Wight is gearing up for a vibrant autumn, with a trio of creative festivals and opportunities promising to draw crowds, ignite imaginations, and spotlight local talent. From the whimsical world of steampunk fashion in Ryde to the literary luminaries gathering at Northwood House, and Brave Island’s call for young creatives, the island’s cultural calendar is brimming with excitement for residents and visitors alike.
First up, Ryde is set to transform into a haven for inventors, adventurers, and dreamers as the IW Steampunk Festival returns from September 26 to 28, 2025. According to the Isle of Wight County Press, this annual event has become a highlight for costume enthusiasts and curious onlookers, inviting everyone to step into a world where Victorian elegance meets futuristic invention. The steampunk style, organizers explain, is all about blending classic 19th-century fashion with imaginative mechanical touches—think long skirts, waistcoats, fitted jackets in muted hues like brown, cream, or black, all sourced affordably from local charity shops.
But it’s the accessories that truly set steampunk apart. Lace gloves, top hats, bowler hats, and sturdy boots form the foundation, while metallic accents—cogs, gears, chains, and pocket watches—bring the look to life. "Goggles are a signature item," notes the festival’s advice, and these can be purchased online or customized from everyday safety goggles with a splash of paint and leather straps. For those wanting to go the extra mile, a parasol or walking stick can be transformed into an eye-catching prop. Hair and makeup are no afterthought either: bold eyeliner, rich lipstick, and elaborate hairstyles adorned with ribbons, feathers, or fascinators complete the transformation. The festival’s message is clear—let your imagination run wild and embrace the adventurous, mechanical edge that defines steampunk.
While Ryde’s streets fill with fantastical costumes, another corner of the island is preparing for a celebration of words, ideas, and storytelling. The 14th Isle of Wight Literary Festival is set to return to Northwood House in Cowes from October 9 to 12, 2025, promising a star-studded lineup and a showcase of both established and emerging authors. As reported by On The Wight, headline guests include household names such as Gyles Brandreth, Prue Leith, Helen Lederer, Sue Barker, and Cath Kidston, ensuring there’s something for every literary taste.
However, festival organizers and literary critics alike are urging attendees not to overlook the lesser-known talents featured this year. Seven standout authors are tipped as hidden gems: Loretta Rothschild, whose debut novel Finding Grace has been named one of Goodreads’ hottest debuts of 2025 and praised by Jodi Picoult as “tender and heartbreaking”; Grant Harrold, the renowned ‘Royal Butler’, who will share intimate stories from his service to Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III; and Lissa Evans, whose memoir Picnic on Craggy Island charts her journey from TV comedy producer to acclaimed author.
Crime fiction aficionados can look forward to Martin Edwards and his festive mystery Miss Winter in the Library with a Knife, while legal drama takes center stage with Karen Phillipps’ account of George Carman QC’s extraordinary career. Yachting history buffs will appreciate Magnus Wheatley’s deep dive into the first race around the Isle of Wight in 1851 for the ‘RYS £100 Cup’—the very event that birthed the America’s Cup. And for those interested in political intrigue and social history, Harriet Cullen’s exploration of her mother, Lady Pamela Berry, promises a fascinating journey through diaries, letters, and untold stories. Tickets for all festival events are now on sale, and anticipation is running high as October approaches.
But it’s not just established authors and costumed revelers who are making headlines this season. Brave Island, a platform devoted to nurturing young talent across the Isle of Wight, has announced four new opportunities for local youth aged 14 to 25. As detailed in a recent On The Wight report, the organization is encouraging young people to register for its program, with the deadline for the first three opportunities fast approaching as of September 16, 2025. The highlight is the Young Creative of the Month award, which offers £100 and the chance for the winner’s work to be promoted across Brave Island’s communication channels. Applicants are asked to submit details about their creative endeavors—be it art, writing, music, or another form of expression—making this a golden opportunity for emerging talent to gain recognition and support.
Brave Island’s initiatives underscore the island’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive creative community. By providing financial support and a platform for promotion, the organization hopes to inspire the next generation of artists, writers, and performers. Local leaders and educators have lauded the program, noting its role in not only celebrating creativity but also in building confidence and skills that can last a lifetime.
All these events and opportunities are more than isolated celebrations—they are part of a broader cultural movement that has taken root on the Isle of Wight in recent years. The island’s reputation as a hub for creativity and innovation continues to grow, drawing visitors from across the UK and beyond. From the bustling streets of Ryde, alive with the clatter of boots and the shimmer of metallic accessories, to the hushed halls of Northwood House filled with literary debate and storytelling, there’s a palpable sense of excitement in the air.
For those planning to attend the IW Steampunk Festival, organizers recommend starting early on costume preparations. Local charity shops are expected to see an influx of visitors searching for the perfect Victorian-inspired pieces, while craft stores are stocking up on gears, cogs, and other steampunk essentials. The festival’s emphasis on do-it-yourself creativity means that even those new to the scene can join in the fun without breaking the bank. And with the event’s popularity growing each year, Ryde is poised to become a focal point for steampunk enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Meanwhile, literary fans are snapping up tickets for the Isle of Wight Literary Festival, eager to hear from both headline speakers and the new voices shaping the future of British literature. The festival’s blend of high-profile guests and hidden gems ensures a dynamic program, with sessions ranging from gripping crime mysteries to moving family histories and lively discussions on the art of storytelling. The inclusion of topics like sailing history and political memoirs reflects the island’s own rich tapestry of culture and tradition.
Finally, Brave Island’s call for young creatives is a reminder that the Isle of Wight’s cultural scene is not just about celebrating the past or present, but about investing in the future. As the deadlines approach, local youth are being encouraged to seize the moment, share their talents, and become part of a thriving artistic community.
With autumn on the horizon, the Isle of Wight is ready to welcome visitors and locals alike to a season of creativity, discovery, and celebration. Whether you’re donning goggles and gears, delving into a new novel, or showcasing your own creative spark, there’s never been a better time to join in the island’s cultural renaissance.
