People dressed in steampunk outfits on Ryde Pier
© IW Steampunk Festival

Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival: Eccentric fashion and retro-futuristic fun this weekend in Ryde

This weekend (20th-22nd September 2024) the Isle of Wight is set to host its first Steampunk Festival, bringing a unique blend of Victorian elegance and futuristic innovation to the town of Ryde.

The event, which offers a mix of free and ticketed activities, promises a captivating celebration of art, culture and style, drawing visitors into the fantastical world of steampunk.

Steampunk is a science fiction subgenre that blends retrofuturistic technology with aesthetics inspired by 19th-century steam-powered industrial machinery and beyond.

A feast of fashion, music and entertainment
Steampunk Festival-goers can look forward to a vibrant programme featuring eccentric fashion displays, live music, mesmerising performances, and creative workshops.

The festival aims to offer something for everyone, whether you are a seasoned steampunk enthusiast or simply curious about this distinctive subculture.

From whimsical costumes to intricate gadgets, the event is a feast for the eyes and the imagination.

No dress code required
Organisers have emphasised that while dressing up in steampunk attire can enhance the experience, it is by no means a requirement.

Visitors are welcome to explore and enjoy the festival without the pressure to don Victorian outfits or brass goggles.

Unleash your inner adventurer
The festival’s setting in the Victorian town of Ryde provides a fitting backdrop, inviting Steampunk Festival-goers to embrace their inner adventurer and take a step back in time.

With a mix of camaraderie, creativity, and a dash of whimsy, the Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival promises a memorable weekend for all who attend.

The event is set to be a distinctive addition to the island’s cultural calendar, offering a truly immersive experience that blends the past and the future in a uniquely steampunk way.

See the Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival website for programme and ticket information.


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