The renowned promoter behind the Isle of Wight Festival, John Giddings, was named ‘Festival Promoter of the Year’ last night at the FestForums awards in Santa Barbara. The award comes shortly after the Isle of Wight Festival was named ‘Best Large Festival’ at the UK Festival Awards in December 2024
Giddings, whose role as International Touring Consultant with Live Nation has involved working on tours for artists like David Bowie, U2, The Rolling Stones, Lady Gaga, Madonna,
N*E*R*D, and many others, was presented with the honour by Arthur Fogel, President of Live Nation’s Global Touring division.
FestForums recognised Giddings as a pivotal figure in the industry, celebrating his role as the driving force behind the legendary Isle of Wight Festival. Since its revival in 2002, Giddings has transformed the festival into a cornerstone of the global music scene, securing iconic performances from some of the world’s most prominent artists including Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie and Amy Winehouse. The festival recently announced part of its 2025 lineup, which includes headline performances by Sting, Stereophonics and Justin Timberlake, who was nominated for ‘Best Song Written for Visual Media’ at the 67th Grammy Awards on Sunday.
Outside of the Isle of Wight Festival, this year will also see Giddings set up ten sold-out shows at The O2 by R&B superstar Usher on behalf of Live Nation.
Now in its ninth year, FestForums, North America’s premier festival industry conference, returns to the Mar Monte Hotel in Santa Barbara for its 2025 edition, bringing together top industry leaders, innovators, and creatives.
13 February 2025 marked the second day of a three-day event featuring a dynamic lineup of panels, including a global festival discussion with Giddings.
Speaking about the award, John Giddings said: “To have this presented by Arthur – someone I have immense respect for – makes it all the more meaningful.
“When we brought the Isle of Wight Festival back in 2002, it was about reviving a legacy started by Ray Foulk, honouring the past while creating something new. This recognition isn’t just for me – it’s for the Isle of Wight itself, the entire team, the artists, and, most importantly, the festival-goers who make it all possible.”
2024 saw the launch of the ‘Experience 25’ exhibition at The O2 in London. The installation celebrated a total 25 years of the festival’s history and saw Ray Foulk – the festival’s original promoter – attend its opening night.
