WITH the final step of the Government's roadmap out of lockdown set to go ahead in less than two week's time, eyes are now on the future, and on events given the green light this year.
The Prime Minister has promised to tear up England’s Covid regulations from July 19 — music to the ears of event organisers across the country.
Scroll down for events this summer...
It means there will be no limits on social contact, the legal requirement to wear face coverings will be lifted, and the one metre plus rule on social distancing will be abolished.
In the wake of this news, we've compiled a list of events to enjoy this year — because everyday henceforth is "Freedom Day".
Island Highland Gathering — (July 18)
The Island Highland Gathering is back again this year — this time at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
Organisers are excited to reveal the Scots Guards Association will be involved this year.
The event, in aid of Isle of Wight charity Aspire, promises an extravaganza of fun, music, and spectacle.
Visitors can enjoy the sounds and sights of highland pipes and drums, as well as caber tossing and haggis hurling.
For further details, visit www.islandhighlandgathering.com
Rainbow Run — (July 18)
Wessex Cancer Trust's Rainbow Run is a fun day out for all the family.
You can walk, run or dance your way through the Isle of Wight’s happiest 3K, and help the charity celebrate its 40th birthday.
The family-friendly event will feature giant inflatables, powder paint and brilliant bubble stations, and is set to be the most colourful and chaotic yet.
Visit www.wessexcancer.org.uk for further information.
Ventnor Fringe — (July 23 - August 1)
Ventnor Fringe is all systems go this summer, with Covid restrictions due to lift just in time for the multidisciplinary, homegrown event.
For the final week of July, the hilly streets of Ventnor will be transformed into a wonderland of pop up venues and bars.
The event, running from July 23 to August 1, is set to feature more than 300 artists from across the world.
Its packed out programme will comprise everything from promising new comedians and bands to barmy events — a little something for everyone.
You can pick and choose which ticketed events to see, or simply explore the many free events on offer.
For more information, visit www.vfringe.co.uk
Toogether Festival — (July 30 - August 1)
The three-day multi-genre music festival was destined to go ahead this year.
Organisers were confident the festival would persevere through Covid, even if it meant having a dedicated rapid test centre installed.
Running between July 30 and August 1 at its new location at Sandown Airport, the event promises a variety of stages, stalls and attractions, with an option to camp.
"The atmosphere is the real star of the show," said founder, Mark Weber.
More than 60 artists are penned to perform, including 808 State and Kosheen.
For tickets, and further details, visit www.toogether.co.uk
Cowes Week — (July 31 - August 6)
A calendar mainstay since 1826, only war and Covid have managed to scupper one of the UK's longest running sporting events.
And while there won't be any fireworks or the Red Arrows this year, there's plenty of optimism surrounding the camp.
The historic sailing regatta, which kick starts later this month, offers a mix of competitive sailing and social activities.
For more information, visit www.cowesweek.co.uk
Carisbrooke Castle — (August 3 - 5, August 17 to 19)
Legendary knights return to Carisbrooke this summer, to compete for honour and glory.
Visitors to the castle can experience the spectacle of speed and skill, as four fearless fighters bedecked in plate armour, joust their way to victory.
You can immerse yourself in medieval life during the two August events, as lances shatter and crowds roar.
Merry music, jester’s jokes, and cookery and crafts workshops are among the attractions, at the Isle of Wight's quintessential romantic castle.
For more information, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk
Jack up the Summer — (August 6 - 8)
Now in its eighth year, this popular family friendly throwback festival is replete with chart topping acts from the '80s and '90s
The three-day summer festival, running in its usual slot from August 6 to 8, is being housed at North Fairlee Farm, just outside of Newport.
Bringing the show back into one big field, kids can enjoy themselves at the funfair while adults gorge on the sounds of yesteryear.
Acts set to grace the stage include Heaven 17, Heather Small and chart-toppers Aswad.
To snap up a ticket, frozen at 2020 prices for a limited time, visit www.jackupthesummer.co.uk
Isle of Wight Scooter Rally — (August 26 - 30)
Tickets are available for this year's scooter rally.
Hosted at Sandown Airport, guests can expect bars, food, camping, bands, DJs, soul rooms and much more, over a fun-filled five days.
The event will culminate on Sunday night with an end of rally party.
For more details, visit www.vfmscoot.co.uk
Victorious Festival — (August 27 - 29)
Thousands of Islanders cross the Solent for this three-day festival.
Held in Southsea, Portsmouth, the star-studded line-up includes Madness, Royal Blood and The Streets this year.
Other south-coast music festivals in Let's Rock Southampton and Dorset's Camp Bestival are also set to go ahead.
For further details, visit www.victoriousfestival.co.uk, www.letsrocksouthampton.com, and www.campbestival.net
Orchestral Ibiza - (August 28)
The sounds of Ibiza could be coming to the Island this August, but with an orchestral twist.
An outdoor festival at Smallbrook Stadium in Ashey is planned, catering for around 5,000 people.
The event promises an evening packed with nostalgia, with some of the biggest Ibiza anthems of all time.
For more information, and to book tickets, visit www.ibizalive.co.uk
Wolverton Manor Garden Fair — (September 4 - 5)
Returning for the 21st year, the Island's largest garden fair boasts a plethora of nurseries and stalls, Elizabethan dancing, dog agility displays and shows.
And it's not just for green-fingered individuals to enjoy — the country house fair is packed full of fun and entertainment for all the family.
Raising funds for Age UK (Isle of Wight), it will also feature classic cars and bikes, military vehicles, a farmers market, vintage amusements and activities.
Visitors can explore more than 100 arts and craft stalls and enjoys a wide range of comestibles catered by local food trucks.
Advanced tickets are available now.
For further information, visit www.gardenfair.org.uk or email garden.fair@ageukiw.org.uk
Isle of Wight Classic Car Extravaganza — (September 11 - 12)
Taking place over two days at Ryde Esplanade, hundreds of classic and vintage cars will be on display.
Now in its 19th year, the famous charity event promises to be the biggest and best ever.
Organiser Vic Gallucci has endeavoured to bring a wide range of vehicles to the Island, and raise money for local charities at the same time.
Vehicles from all over the UK and mainland Europe will be attending the unique two-day show — a collection of vintage, classic, custom and retro cars, as well as other rare vehicles.
For further details, visit the event's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/iowclassiccarshow
Cider and Cheese Festival — (September 11 - 12)
A myriad of events are planned at Havenstreet this year, from summer concerts to October spooktaculars.
Among them is a regular autumn fixture in the cider and cheese weekend, where there will be more than 25 products to indulge in.
If you can’t decide on just one, there are cheese platters to pick from with crunchy pickles and crackers, washed down perfectly with a pint of cider.
For more information and further Isle of Wight Steam Railway events, visit www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk
Isle of Wight Festival — (September 16 - 19)
You heard the same broadcast I did, said organiser John Giddings, as he confirmed his beloved festival would go ahead this year.
The rescheduled four-day festival is set to take place at Seaclose Park in Newport, from September 16 to 19.
Tickets are still available, but in high demand, as festivalgoers prepare to emancipate months and months of pent-up party this autumn.
Headline acts include Liam Gallagher, David Guetta and Duran Duran.
For tickets, and further information, visit www.isleofwightfestival.com
Sweetcorn Fayre — (September 25 - 26)
Islanders looking for an a-maize-ing time should look no further than the Sweetcorn Fayre.
The ever-popular annual event will return to Arreton Barns in September.
Visitors can enjoy live music and children's entertainment, as well as snail racing, sweetcorn speed eating, and a beer festival at The Dairyman's Daughter.
Bob the Cob, Connie Corn and Nora Niblet will all be present, promising a fun-packed family day out.
For further details, visit www.arretonbarns.co.uk
Jay Miller's Circus — (dates to be announced)
The circus is coming to town this year, back at its Racecourse Roundabout home in Whippingham.
The event has yet to set dates, on account of the grass on site needing maintenance, and weather dictating when it can be done.
The aroma of sawdust, candy floss and popcorn will pervade the air once more, as Jay Miller brings first class, live, traditional family entertainment to our shores.
The circus postponed its tour of the UK last year due to Covid.
For more information, and to stay updated, visit www.jaymillerscircus.co.uk
Shanklin Theatre — (various)
Shanklin Theatre will continue to lift its curtain this year, with a packed-out calender of summer shows on the horizon.
The programme list is teeming with talent, with the team at Spotlight making a return, as well as comedy shows and music.
The 'Freedom Day' announcement brings about an end to socially distanced audiences, meaning greater numbers can be back in an auditorium seat.
One of the biggest names on the comedy circuit, Sarah Millican, will be performing on July 24.
"The appetite from the public for live entertainment remains strong," said chairman, Vic Farrow.
"And we shall do everything possible to provide enjoyment for all tastes."
For further information, and to find out what's on, visit www.shanklintheatre.com
Visit Isle of Wight managing director, Will Myles said: "To see businesses who have invested a lot of time, effort and money into producing some top class events, have their work rewarded in this way, is great.
"It has been a tense time as organisers have waited to find out the how the government would continue the easing of restrictions and once the four step reopening roadmap details are announced and confirmed, it will offer further guidance for the safe operation of events.
"I have been in touch with some of the people who run these events and it is their passion, matched by their professionalism, that convinces me events will be run in a safe way, offering confidence to residents and visitors who are looking forward to enjoying the quality entertainment that the Isle of Wight is known to offer."
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