Ventnor Pirate Festival To Return For Four Days Of Seafaring Fun

Ventnor Pirate Festival is set to return this summer, bringing four days of live music, family entertainment and community spirit to the Isle of Wight.

The popular event will run from Wednesday, 12 August to Saturday, 15 August 2026, opening in collaboration with Ventnor Carnival.

Organisers say the main carnival on the opening day will kick off the celebrations in style.

Thursday, 13 August will focus on younger visitors, with a dedicated children’s day packed with pirate-themed activities.

The festival will then build towards a headline performance from Derek Sandy, who is due to take to the stage at the Spyglass Inn at 3pm on Saturday.

Shanty singers and a range of other acts have already been confirmed, with more entertainers expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Festival-goers will also be able to try a special themed drink, Gilbert’s Gold, brewed by Island Brewery.

Ahead of the main event, a Pirate Quiz Fundraiser will take place at Mill Bay on Wednesday, 22 July.

Organisers are also inviting Island-based pirates and performers to take part in the Ventnor Illuminated Carnival Parade, where a new “Spirit of Carnival” award will be up for grabs for the best dressed pirate.

A community Pirate Day meet-up is also planned at the Spyglass Inn over the late May Bank Holiday, with volunteers, performers and anyone with ideas encouraged to attend and help shape this year’s festival.