The Cure rounded off Sky Presents Isle of Wight Festival 2026 with a 2-hour and 15-minute headline performance on Sunday night, bringing another successful weekend at Seaclose Park to a memorable close.
The legendary band saved many of their biggest hits until the latter stages of their set, with ‘Boys Don’t Cry’ providing the finale to the weekend’s music.
Festival-goers arriving early on Thursday were treated to additional entertainment from 4 acts, including Maximo Park and Joel Corry.
Throughout the weekend, Sky Arts presenters Edith Bowman and Shaun Keaveny conducted interviews with performers and hosted exclusive sessions inside the broadcaster’s marquee. Virgin Radio’s Ben Jones was also busy in the Guest Village, speaking with artists including KT Tunstall.
The Scottish singer said performing at festivals “doesn’t feel like work”, although catching an early ferry could prove challenging. She added that hearing audiences sing along to her songs was one of her favourite aspects of live performances.
Away from the main stages, artist and sculptor Guy Portelli displayed his latest kiln-cast glass work, Blooming Fragile, featuring endangered plants from around the world. Portelli, who has longstanding links with Dimbola Museum in Freshwater Bay, also met original Isle of Wight Festival organiser Ray Foulk on Saturday.
Festival promoter John Giddings, another supporter of Dimbola, was presented with a cut-out of Jimi Hendrix by members of the museum team before the event got underway.
A number of Isle of Wight businesses showcased local produce in the Guest Village. Godshill Orchards offered fresh cherries and preserves, while Isle of Wight Tomatoes displayed its products following its recent collaboration with M&S Food Halls.
Briddlesford Farm supplied a selection of cheeses, Calbourne Classics showcased its cakes and Minghella Ice Creams was also represented.
Richmond’s Bakery which has recently undergone a rebrand at its Newport premises, joined Mermaid Spirits, Goddards Brewery and the non-alcoholic Elixir range in supplying refreshments to guests.
Following Level 42’s performance, frontman Mark King spent time in the Guest Village meeting attendees.
Behind the scenes, catering for around 1,000 support workers was provided by Eat To The Beat, with Isle of Wight suppliers including Wight Crystal and Medina Food service supporting the operation.
The annual festival once again combined world-famous artists with local businesses and organisations, highlighting the Isle of Wight both on and off the stage.
