A new Isle of Wight music festival promises a full day of live performances from talented Island-based musicians next year.

Organised by radio presenter Phil Norris in partnership with Rockhopper Sound, The Homegrown Music Festival will be a day-long celebration of local talent with a charitable mission at its heart.

At Newport’s Riverside Centre on March 29, from 1.30pm to 10.30pm, the event is dedicated to supporting Island charities, with the inaugural festival raising funds for IoW Defibrillators and the Riverside Community Action Hub.

Tickets are priced at £12.50 each, with only 250 available through the festival’s official website and 100 per cent of ticket sales going directly to the causes.

The Homegrown Music Festival 2025 logoThe Homegrown Music Festival 2025 logo (Image: Contributed)

Phil, who was inspired to create the festival after a personal health challenge, said: “I just want to spend the rest of my life helping people.

“There are many festivals that support specific charities, so I thought, why don't I do one that focuses on two different charities each year?”

The lineup for the festival features ten local artists and bands - though specific acts have yet to be officially announced.

Additionally, festival-goers can expect performances and entertainment throughout the day, alongside an afternoon and evening filled with live music.

Exclusive festival merchandise, including T-shirts created in partnership with Teemill, will be available through the event website, with 25 per cent of all sales being added to the fundraising efforts throughout 2025.

Phil emphasised the community-driven nature of the festival and noted that everyone involved is contributing voluntarily.

He added: “It’s all non-profit, every single penny goes into a 50/50 split between the charities.

And at just £12.50 for ten bands, that’s an absolute bargain!” 

Looking to the future, Phil revealed plans for a 2026 event, which will feature a new lineup and two new charities to benefit from the proceeds.