This weekend, the Wight Aviation Museum hosts a truly unique event as Men’s Sheds from across the Isle of Wight come together to celebrate the incredible people behind them – the Shedders – at the Men in Sheds Festival, taking place on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th June.
This is not a craft fair, and it’s definitely not a place to buy a garden shed. Instead, it’s a chance to meet the people who are quietly transforming lives and communities through skills-sharing, teamwork, and good old-fashioned conversation.
What to expect
- Meet the Shedders – see what local Sheds have been working on and learn how they’re making a difference in Island communities
- Live Music from local performers
- Real Ale on Tap
- Classic Car Displays
- Alongside the Shedders, a few local organisations and charities will have stalls to explore
One organiser said,
“Sheds are not about buildings. They’re about people.
“Whether it’s repairing tools, restoring classic cars, or just having a cuppa and a chat, what matters is the connection between Shedders.”
What is a Shed?
Despite the name, most Sheds aren’t actual sheds. They might be old offices, garages, portable cabins, or sometimes just a group of people meeting regularly until they find a space to call their own. Inside, you might find woodworking, electronics, model building, music making or engine restoration… or simply people talking, laughing, and supporting one another.
Sheds offer a space where people, particularly men, often older and retired, can share skills, feel useful, and build friendships. While many members are men, Sheds increasingly welcome younger people and women too.
A Shed member said,
“When people retire, they can lose their identity and social networks overnight. Sheds provide a new purpose and a community to be part of.
“They’ve changed lives, and in some cases, saved them.”
A serious issue, a simple solution
Loneliness and isolation are growing public health issues, shown to be as harmful as obesity or smoking.
Men often find it harder to talk openly about personal issues or seek out new friendships. Sheds tackle this by creating welcoming, informal spaces where people can be themselves, feel supported, and enjoy shared activity without pressure.
Come and find out what Island Sheds have been up to – and how you can get involved.
Whether you’re looking to join a Shed, support one, or just want to see what it’s all about, the Men in Sheds Festival offers a welcoming, eye-opening look at one of the Island’s most quietly powerful community movements.
Men in Sheds Festival takes place at the Wight Aviation Museum, Scotchells Brook Lane, Sandown PO36 0JP on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th June 2025 from 10am to 4pm, both days with extended opening on Saturday evening.
Entry is free and all are welcome.
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