There are theatres in Shanklin, Ryde and Cowes and two in Newport offering a range of life performances and shows. The Isle of Wight has a thriving festival programme. The Isle of Wight international jazz festival is held in Ventnor in April. Festivals elsewhere in the Island include the Isle of Wight Festival, Cowes week, Osborne House Classical Concert and the Isle of Wight Folk and Blues Festival and White Air Extreme Sports Festival. Within Ventnor, there is music at the Spyglass Inn most nights during summer weeks.

Activities

The Island Breaks website www.islandbreaks.co.uk provides details of all possible activities across the island. There are opportunities for a wide range of pursuits including walking, cycling, windsurfing, sailing, bird watching, climbing, flying and paragliding. Boat rides are available from the harbour area. Pleasure flights are offered from the Island.

Ventnor also has its own golf course and there are local tennis courts.