why iow?

[firecracker]

Hi IOW goers!!

I've never been before, but I know many people who enjoy it, but with no specific reasons. I'm considering going next year, so could anyone give me the lowdown on why it is such a good festival, or not!

Cheers x

[firecracker]

It depends what you go for but for me there are two selling points:

1) Chilled atomsphere, Isle Of Wight is a pleasure to attend, it's relaxed, it has the feeling of a holiday, and it generally caters to all ages. It may not sound very rock and roll, but it really is a nice change of pace from Reading which can be so hectic sometimes. It's really nice to see people of all ages having fun, and you can strike up some really cool conversations. Of course the crowd still go for it down the front, but the vibe is just more carefree. Ultimately, Isle Of Wight never feels like a hassle.

2) Randomness, like Glastonbury, even though there are so many mainstream acts on the line up, IOW always has the knack of throwing up bands you rarely get to see anywhere else; whether it's The Stones & The Police, or Donovan and The Zombies, you just get this varied line up, that caters to everyone.

It's always been great for me, because my friends have such varied tastes, my pop friends comes, my rock friends come, my dance friends come, my avante garde mates come to check out The Pixies, my whole family comes because there usually is another of variety, to appeal to a broad base.

The major negative:

The Price: very expensive, not on the island, but getting their on a ferry, they hike up the prices and it effectively adds an extra 100 quid to your bill if you drive.

Still it's worth it for the experience, if you want to be wasted 24/7 it might not be for you, you can do that, but you won't be surrounded by like minded others like you would at Reading. But if you want to chill, see a cool mix of classic and contemporary bands while enjoying some beers, in the summer sun, then this is probably for you.