This appeal, which appeared on an advertising poster of 1809, sums up the philosophy behind much of the Island's public entertainment. Concerts, coffee socials, feˆtes, carnivals and other special events have been the mainstay of community life in towns and the countryside for at least the past two hundred years, meeting a social need for the beneficiaries, whether recipients of charity or of entertainment. Whatever the level, local or beyond, they provided – and, indeed, still provide – a platform for speakers and singers to hone their talents in preparation for political fame or artistic recognition. Once these aims are achieved, the performers are usually more than happy to return to their roots, to chair meetings or open events, or to contribute the entertainment essential on any social occasion.

Most events of this type are aimed specifically at Manx residents, and the majority of events used to be traditionally held during the winter, after the departure of the holiday-makers. But with the decline of the tourist industry they are now spread rather more evenly across the seasons. Some are necessarily tied to the calendar. ‘Root’ shows celebrating horticultural skills are still held in most parts of the Island during the late summer or autumn. The two agricultural shows are traditionally held in late July and early August and, in spite of commercial pressure, continue to provide a much-needed continuity for the farming community. Since the 1930s the Isle of Man Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs has been central to the lives of those who work in the industry, offering an important mixture of training, competition and, above all, a social link for people whose work is often necessarily isolated.