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The Cure Bring Isle Of Wight Festival 2026 To A Stunning Close

  • Writer: Dominic  Kureen
    Dominic Kureen
  • 4 minutes ago
  • 2 min read
(c) Stephanie Mackrill
(c) Stephanie Mackrill

The Isle of Wight Festival 2026 drew to a memorable conclusion on Sunday, with legendary headliners The Cure delivering a captivating finale to four days of music, sunshine and celebration at Seaclose Park.


Festivalgoers packed the Main Stage from early afternoon as the final day got underway with a lively performance from Fugo Kid, who opened proceedings in style and set the tone for another packed day of entertainment.


Earlier in the day, Isle of Wight Radio caught up with the rising star ahead of his appearance.

(c) Stephanie Mackrill
(c) Stephanie Mackrill

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega followed with a beautifully crafted set, before Level 42 brought their trademark blend of jazz-funk and pop to Newport.


Frontman Mark King, who spoke to Isle of Wight Radio before taking to the stage, was greeted by a large and enthusiastic crowd as the band rolled through a catalogue of classic hits.


David Gray continued the afternoon with a polished and heartfelt performance, showcasing the songs that have made him one of Britain's most respected singer-songwriters.


One of the weekend's most anticipated acts, The Last Dinner Party, then delivered an energetic and theatrical set that underlined their growing reputation as one of the UK's most exciting live bands.

(c) Stephanie Mackrill
(c) Stephanie Mackrill

Their performance drew one of the largest crowds of the day before indie favourites The Kooks took over, treating fans to a string of beloved anthems as the sun began to set over Seaclose Park.


As darkness fell, The Cure closed the festival in spectacular fashion. Robert Smith and company guided festivalgoers through a career-spanning set packed with classics, creating an emotional and atmospheric end to the weekend.


Thousands sang along as the iconic band brought the curtain down on another successful Isle of Wight Festival.

(c) Stephanie Mackrill
(c) Stephanie Mackrill

Over in the Big Top, festival favourites Shed Seven attracted a huge audience with a set full of Britpop-era hits, while Jo Whiley's 90s Anthems kept the celebrations going late into the night.


Earlier performances from Voilà, Luvcat, The Twilight Sad and Rose Gray ensured there was something for every musical taste throughout the day.


The River Stage once again showcased emerging talent, with strong performances from Lucia and the Best Boys, Boxing Club, Fever Dream Kills and The Sukis.


The Molotovs rounded off the stage's programme with an energetic evening set, having earlier spoken to Isle of Wight Radio about their rapid rise and excitement at performing the festival.

(c) Jack McHugh
(c) Jack McHugh

Elsewhere, the Kashmir Café remained a hub of eclectic entertainment, featuring everything from folk and ska to comedy-infused music and late-night DJ sets.


Mr B The Gentleman Rhymer, Captain Accident and Year of the Dog were among those keeping crowds entertained well into the evening.


Meanwhile, Cirque De La Quirk delivered its usual blend of the weird and wonderful, with live music, DJs, games, cabaret and performance art ensuring the festival's alternative corner remained as vibrant as ever on the final day.


With performances from some of music's biggest names, a host of rising stars and thousands of fans enjoying four days of entertainment, the Isle of Wight Festival 2026 once again proved why it remains one of the UK's most cherished summer events.


Keep your eyes peeled for more of our Isle of Wight Festival round-ups this week.

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