I’ve been going to the Isle of Wight Festival for four years now, and it’s never failed to impress.
This year was no exception.
What I Love
I love not knowing who’s going to perform until a few months in advance. I love the fact that thousands of people come to our little Island for one weekend, bringing with them different accents, outfits and ways of life.
I love the excitement of the week before-hand, when they start putting the site together. I love peeking at the set-up of the stage, and getting my tickets through in the post.
I love walking into the site for the first time on Friday and seeing the stage, the food stalls, and all the rides. I love walking around Strawberry Fields for the first time, and going in every single tent. I love how the lights from the rides give the site a magical feel.
I love how the atmosphere continues long into the night, and the buzz I’m left with afterwards.
Highlights
Friday’s highlights being Calvin Harris and Florence and the Machine, both of whom I’d never seen live before (last year when Calvin was playing I was unable to get into the tent) and will certainly pay to see again, hopefully I won’t have to wear my wellies next time!
Saturday’s acts for me were Paloma Faith, who we were close to the front for, and exceeded my expectations. Noah and the Whale, who I’d been waiting to see since Bestival 2008, (the muddy one) when the stage they were due to play had to be shut, and Biffy Clyro, who I’ve wanted to see ever since their ‘Puzzle’ album was released. They were, undoubtedly, the highlight of my whole weekend, and I haven’t been able to stop listening to them since.
Sunday I didn’t actually see any acts perform, which was such a shame because I’ve been a fan of P!nk for as long as I can remember. I lost my friends while we were on our way to the front, and headed to the campsite to meet others, therefore missing her whole theatrical performance. I also didn’t return to the main arena for Paul McCartney, but watched the fireworks, which were impressive and are always a nice way to end.
Atmosphere
Everything is so much more exciting at the Festival, it gives you the chance to run around and make a complete fool out of yourself.
It only lasts for three days, but I was excited about it for months beforehand.
When my friends and I got home on Sunday night, soaking wet thanks to the sudden downpour of rain, we all sat down with hot chocolate and said ‘well that was great, bring on next year’.
Images: Copyright James Gillham, Adam Sorenson and Julian Winslow
