By Isle of Wight Observer
The second IW Steampunk Festival took place over the weekend, marking a triumphant return, and surpassing expectations, with around 6,000 visitors enjoying a celebration of creativity and whimsy at a variety of venues around Ryde.
Many visitors came from across the water, from as far afield as Hull, Lincoln and Gloucester, as the word about the Island’s festivities has spread to the Steampunk fraternity across the country.
This year’s two-day festival was bigger and better than ever, featuring a captivating array of events, including storytelling, at Fubar, electrifying teapot racing, at the Isle of Wight Vintage Bus Museum, and delightful tea duelling contests at the Star Coffee & Ale House.
Western Gardens buzzed with the energy of stalls, live music, and family-friendly fun throughout the day, culminating in the spectacular Steampunk Ryde-out walk parade.
Shops, businesses and the Victorian Arcade, with festival stalls and their own market event, were overwhelmed with the friendly engagement of revellers.
It appeared at times that Ryde had transformed into a stunning Victorian film set during the day with ladies, gentlemen and young ones proudly donning top hats, corsets and vintage-theme attire while street performers delighted crowds and penny-farthings rolled down the streets as might have been seen in days of yore.
As the sun set, festival goers were treated to three evenings of premium live entertainment and danced the night away at Fubar, The Balcony and Royal Esplanade Hotel.
There was also a Best Dressed Pooch Steampunk Contest as smartly dress dogs paraded in front of the visitors.
After this year’s successful event, plans for next year’s festivities are already under way.
View our on-line gallery at iw.observer/steampunk-2025.
Mal Butler 
Isle of Wight Observer