The annual Cowes Week takes place in August and dates back to 1826. It has played a key part in the British sporting summer calendar, and is a week - long celebration and stages up to 40 daily races for around 1,000 boats. The event is one of the largest sailing regatta's of its kind in the world. It offers a great mix of competitive sailing and social activities. The 8,500 competitors range from Olympic and world class professionals to weekend sailors. In excess of 100,000 spectators come to watch the sailing, enjoy the parties and live music.