15. July 2026

Portsmouth in 2026–2027: A Year of Festivals, Food, Fireworks & Full-On Fun

If you thought Portsmouth had already shown off everything it’s got, think again. The rest of 2026 and the whole of 2027 are shaping up to be absolutely buzzing — from centenary celebrations and comic cons to music festivals, comedy nights and full-on seaside spectacles. Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or someone who just loves a good excuse to head down to the waterfront, here’s what’s coming up…

🦁 Portsmouth100: The City Turns 100

Portsmouth is celebrating 100 years of city status, and the party lasts all year long. Expect heritage events, art trails, concerts and community celebrations across the city.

Pride of Portsmouth Lion Trail Hunt (Jul–Sep 2026) — A colourful trail of artist-designed lions dotted across the city. A perfect summer wander for families and visitors.
Portsmouth Sing 100 Festival (May 2026) — A huge musical celebration featuring choirs, orchestras and the Royal Marines Band.
Our Naval City Day (Oct 2026) — Heritage, food, performances and naval history at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Priddy’s Hard.

🎆 Fireworks, Markets & Winter Magic

Portsmouth does winter properly — cosy markets, sea-shanty nights and fireworks lighting up the harbour.

Portsmouth Harbour Fireworks (Jan annually) — Rockets boom above the Spinnaker Tower with mulled wine stalls glowing at Gunwharf Quays.
Shanty by the Sea (Feb annually) — Sea-song crews fill Old Portsmouth pubs with accordion wheeze, stamping boots and proper maritime chaos.
Love Your Market (Feb annually) — Southsea Market turns pink with bunting, artisan food and live jazz.

🍰 Foodie Fun & Local Traditions

Portsmouth loves a good bite — and 2026 brings some delicious traditions back.

Pompey Puddings Competition (Mar annually) — Sticky toffee, treacle sponges and lemon drizzle towers fill the cathedral crypt. Bring a fork.
Hotwalls Creative Markets (Apr 2026) — Local makers, live music and great coffee at Hotwalls Studios.

🏃 Sport, Sea & Summer Festivals

Summer in Portsmouth is always lively — and 2026/27 are no exception.

Great South Run (Oct 2026) — Back on its usual route after sea defence works. A huge weekend for runners and spectators.
International Kite Festival (Apr annually) — Southsea Common fills with giant kites, rainbow squid tails and dragon designs.

🎭 Comic Con, Comedy & Culture

If you love entertainment, Portsmouth has you covered.

Portsmouth Comic Con (May 2026) — Costumes, merch, experiences and all things pop culture at the Guildhall.
Troy Hawke: Never Stop, Never Change! (Apr 2027) — The moustachioed legend brings his comedy show to Portsmouth Guildhall.
The Lens Studio (Feb 2027) — Live music at Portsmouth Guildhall featuring Ben Poole.

🍻 Festivals & Big Weekenders

Portsmouth’s indie scene and brewery culture continue to thrive.

Far Out Festival (Jun 2027) — Makemake Brewing Co. and Pitt Street Skate Park team up for a unique festival experience.
Gosport Sunset Festival (Jul 2026) — A multi-day music festival with big names and summer vibes.

😂 Fawlty Towers Weekender (Jun 2027)

Yes, really. Basil, Sybil and Manuel take over the Holiday Inn Portsmouth for a full comedy weekend — dinner shows, chaos and guaranteed laughs.

Weekend Show (19–20 June 2027)
Dinner Show (19 June 2027)

🎶 Concerts & Live Music Everywhere

Portsmouth Guildhall, Wedgewood Rooms, South Parade Pier and Pitt Street Skatepark are packed with gigs throughout 2026–27 — rock, indie, jazz, folk, pop, metal, you name it. There are over 200 upcoming concerts across the region.

🐾 Treasure Hunts, Art Trails & Family Fun

My Dog Sighs Treasure Hunt (Apr 2026) — 8,000 pieces of hidden art across the city. Free to find, free to keep.

🌊 Why 2026–27 Is the Perfect Time to Visit Portsmouth

With the city celebrating its 100th birthday, major festivals returning, new events launching, and the waterfront buzzing from Gunwharf Quays to Southsea, Portsmouth is set for one of its most exciting periods in years. Whether you’re here for food, culture, music, history or just a good day out by the sea, there’s something happening almost every week.