Ventnor Fringe Festival organisers have announced a new Guarantee Fund, following a record-breaking 15th edition of the festival.
This year saw nearly 13,000 tickets sold, a 7.5% increase on 2024, alongside more than 100 free events.
The week-long celebration brought an estimated £500,000 boost to the local economy, with the wider impact of the organisation thought to be closer to £1 million annually.
Guaranteeing the future
What many people may not realise is that it costs a lot of money to put on a festival. Running Ventnor Fringe costs more than £300,000 each year, with most of the costs covered by ticket and bar sales.
The new Guarantee Fund has been launched to secure the remaining 10% needed, with a target of £35,000 by the end of 2025.
Organisers said,
“With your support we can ensure the festival continues to play a major role in contributing to the cultural life of the Island.”
Celebrating growth
Over 100 volunteers helped deliver more than 130 shows, with organisers calling it an “incredible achievement for such a small place”.
The festival also gained national attention in The Sunday Times, Independent, Metro and Daily Express, shining a spotlight on Ventnor as a cultural destination.
How to support
Donations of any size are welcomed, and there are special options for individuals and businesses who wish to contribute.
Visit the Ventnor Exchange website to find out more about the various options.
