Ryde seafront is the vibrant heart of the festival’s daytime programme on Saturday, free and open to everyone, young and old, where live music fills the stage from 10am and a bustling market of steampunk and artisan stalls offers something for every curiosity.
Alongside a tempting array of food and drink vendors, the site also hosts the Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival information tent, where visitors can find out what's on and purchase tickets for the show on Saturday evening.
With steampunkers heading there in full costume throughout the day, it’s a welcoming and lively atmosphere for all - whether you’re dressed for the occasion or simply coming along to soak up the spectacle and enjoy the fun.
COME ALONG TO THIS FREE EVENT
Meet Major Blunder brings the whimsical spirit of steampunk to life through catchy tunes and delightful lyrics that celebrate the eccentricities of the Steampunk culture.
With a top hat perched jauntily and a heart full of whimsy, Major Blunder strums his ukulele, whisking audiences away to a world where corsets meet clockwork, and boots click-clack with every step.
His songs are a playful homage to the steampunk revellers, capturing their unique style and spirited gatherings.
Imagine lyrics that laugh at the absurdity of life in a corset, where every breath is a challenge, yet every twirl is a dance of freedom.
RazorJake are an Isle of Wight based folk duo performing mostly original songs with a theatrical flair.
East Cowes Shanty are a lively community singing group, united by a love of sea shanties, maritime songs and a good old-fashioned singalong. Since their formation in 2023, they have developed an ever-growing repertoire of traditional favourites alongside newer shanties, and continue to grow in confidence and experience.
Community focused, East Cowes Shanty love bringing people together through music and performing at local events, pubs and community gatherings. Any money raised from their gigs is donated to nominated charities.
The Antipoet, Paul Eccentric and Ian Newman, are together the world's finest exponents of beatrantin' rhythm 'n views! Having become somewhat successful over the last decade, they have tirelessly toured the poetry, comedy and music circuits and have appeared at countless festivals including, Glastonbury, Bestival, Camp Bestival, Edinburgh, Brighton, Rebellion, Lake Fest and, Larmer Tree.
In true Steampunk style these guys bring a smile to your face as soon as they take to the stage and deliver a truly glittering performance of comedy and song.
This year we are hoping for that vintage Victorian twist to their show to get you singing along in merriment and joy. They have travelled to our Island to enthral you with their unique style of entertainment.
Ahoy mateys!
Get ready to be mesmerised by the enchanting sounds of Gurdybird (aka Tamsyn Swingler), our expert hurdy-gurdy performer, appearing in splendid pirate style! 🏴☠️
Let her musical magic transport you to distant shores with the wonderfully unique sound of this fascinating instrument.
But what exactly is a hurdy-gurdy?
Part violin, part bagpipe and entirely intriguing! Turn the crank and its strings create a mesmerising melody that sounds both ancient and wonderfully otherworldly. Think of it as a little orchestra in a box - with a distinctly piratey twist! ⚓️🎶
We are extremely honoured that Karen Lucioni, Ryde's Mayor, will open the Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival this year.
