The sights and sounds of the original Isle of Wight Festival will be brought back to life with a string of events over the August Bank Holiday.
Ray Foulk, co-promoter of the 1970 event at Afton, will return to the Island with a new book to celebrate the milestone 55th anniversary of the legendary gathering that saw rock legends Jimi Hendrix, The Doors and The Who take to the stage at Afton.
An estimated 600,000 people showed up to that record-breaking event which was subsequently preserved on film as well as on many records and CDs. Hundreds of thousands of music fans continue to return to the Island every year for the 21st Century version of the Isle of Wight Festival in Newport, an event which is viewed on TV around the world.
Ray Foulk’s updated edition of The Last Great Event, published by Medina Publishing, tells the full insider story of the 1970 festival, which had to overcome fierce local objections to take place. In new chapters for 2025, he explores the enduring legacy that continues to this day with the new Isle of Wight Festivals. The new and expanded paperback edition was published last month, headed by Peter Harrigan who was publicity director of the 1970 festival and the Bob Dylan one a year previously.
Also included are more than 50 photographs taken at the more recent Isle of Wight Festivals, courtesy of Isle of Wight Festival director John Giddings.
Ray Foulk said,
“That the history of the Isle of Wight Festival endures is due in no small measure to the amazing run of 23 festivals organised by John Giddings and Solo.
”I am incredibly proud to have had been afforded the opportunity to add a new section on these events to this new paperback revision of The Last Great Event. May the IW Festival go from strength to strength!”
‘Meet the Author’ at Medina Bookshop, Cowes
Thursday August 21st, 6pm
Festivities kick off with the official book launch of Ray’s new paperback at Medina Bookshop, based on Cowes High Street.
The author will be on hand to chat and sign copies of his expanded edition, which offers fresh, behind-the-scenes insights and reflections on the 1970 event as well as more recent performances from the likes of David Bowie, the Rolling Stones and Amy Winehouse.
Free to attend, includes a complimentary drink to toast the occasion.
‘The Last Great Event’ with Ray Foulk at Dimbola, Freshwater Bay.
Friday August 22nd, 6pm to 8pm.
Arrive at 6pm for a complimentary Mermaid gin and tonic, with music in keeping with the 1970 Festival, take your seat by 6:30pm for Ray Foulk’s presentation of the newly revised paperback version of his book, moderated by Tom Stroud.
Now including a new chapter about the Isle of Wight Festival from 2002 onwards—as reincarnated by John Giddings—the new book will be available to purchase, with Ray signing copies in the foyer after his presentation.
Tom Stroud said,
“I’ve known Ray for 15 years and interviewed him a lot, but there’s still so much to learn about the Isle of Wight Festivals. Ray was at the centre of those events.
“His books are brilliant and his perspective is unique. It’s always great to hear him talk.”
Tickets are available from Dimbola at £5 per person, £4 for Friends of Dimbola. Tel: 01983 756814.
‘The Wight Music Experience’ Triple A Records, Newport
Saturday August 23rd, 4pm – 8pm
Ray Foulk will officially open the Wight Music Experience exhibition upstairs at Triple A Records in St James Street, Newport.
Owners Jonathan Bacon and Andy Barding have spent months building a stunning exhibition of artefacts from the festivals, as well as a celebration of wider Isle of Wight music successes, with unique displays of Craig Douglas, Pat Reader, Wet Leg, and Level 42 ephemera as well as displays on former records shops and the 69 Club music scene in Ryde.
Downstairs, there’ll be a special film presentation and discussion led by Ray, plus live music celebrating the songs of the 1968, 1969 and 1970 festivals, from 2pm.
Free to attend.
“Whether you attend one event or all three, this weekend offers a unique way to revisit the spirit of the Isle of Wight Festival and celebrate its significant place in both local history and global music culture—Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of one of the World’s most beloved music festivals!”
About the Venues
Medina Bookshop (Cowes)is a proudly independent, award-winning bookshop with a strong commitment to community, culture and the arts. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse events programme, it regularly hosts author talks, book launches, and live music evenings that draw people from across the Island and beyond.
Dimbola Museum & Galleries (Freshwater), former home of pioneer photographer Julia Margaret Cameron, was saved from demolition by a dedicated group of campaigners, many of whom were involved with, or attended, the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival. Dimbola hosts the first permanent exhibition to the 1970 Festival, showcasing rare photographs, memorabilia, and stories of the historic event.
Dimbola also debuted the Experience the Isle of Wight Festival exhibition series in 2023, which evolved into the Experience 25 exhibition held in Newport in 2024, and expanded to London’s O2 in that autumn.
Triple A Records (Newport town centre) stocks new and vintage vinyl, CDs and music books. It has become a vibrant musical hub, with frequent live performances downstairs and the new exhibition space and meeting area on the first floor celebrating the Isle of Wight’s rich musical scene.
News shared by Charlotte on behalf of Medina Bookshop. Ed
