For over 100 years, The Chale Show has stood as a celebration of community, tradition, and the best of Island life. Rooted in its horticultural beginnings, the show has grown into the Isle of Wight’s largest family-friendly country show—yet it proudly keeps its country spirit at its heart.
Our History
The Chale Sports and Garden Show was first held in 1920, financed entirely by local donations. At the time, entries were limited to residents of the village of Chale and focused on traditional country pursuits: vegetables, fruit, flowers, and ladies’ classes. Competitors were divided into categories of cottagers and gardeners (professional or amateur) or smallholders.
Competition was fierce. Professional gardeners often entered on behalf of their employers, who expected them to bring home the cups—and with prize money equal to a week’s wages, there was plenty of incentive to win. A small selection of classes was also open to entrants from across the Isle of Wight, beginning a tradition of welcoming the wider Island community.
By 1927, the show was thriving, with over 200 subscriptions raising the equivalent of £2,500 in today’s money. The number of exhibit classes grew year by year—a commitment the show still holds, ensuring there’s always something new to see and take part in.
In the 1950s, children’s classes were added, transforming the show into the truly family-friendly event that it is today. Until this time, the show had always taken place on a Thursday afternoon (Chale’s early closing day), allowing villagers to attend.
In 1976, a special two-day event was held to celebrate the Silver Jubilee, and by 1978 this became the permanent format. That year, a record 925 exhibit entries were submitted—a record that stood until 2006. In recent years, entries have soared, with over 1,500 exhibits proudly displayed at the show.
Growth and Community
The Chale Show has moved venue several times over its long history. In 1998, it found its permanent home at the newly established Chale Recreation Ground, providing the space needed for bigger arena attractions, more exhibitors, and the chance to welcome an ever-growing audience.
By 2004, the show committee made the bold decision to purchase the recreation ground for the village, securing its future as a community space. Ownership was successfully transferred to the parish, ensuring the field would always be run for the benefit of local people—and providing The Chale Show with a permanent home for generations to come.
Today, the show is operated by Chale Show Limited, while the Chale Horticultural Society continues its charitable mission, donating funds raised to local and Island causes.
A Country Show at Heart
Though the show has grown in scale—welcoming thousands of visitors, spectacular arena acts, and attractions for all ages—it remains, at its core, a traditional country show. From prize-winning dahlias to homemade jams, children’s crafts to giant vegetables, The Chale Show is proud to keep alive the spirit of friendly competition, community pride, and country traditions.
Every summer, we welcome families, friends, and visitors from across the Isle of Wight and beyond to celebrate the very best of village life, all while supporting local good causes.