What's on in Portsmouth this summer

It's summer holiday time! As well as long evenings, school holidays and daytrips to the beach, it also means there's a load of great events being organised for the weeks ahead. From free family fun to huge festivals and activities along the water's edge, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

Read on for just some of the many great things to do in Portsmouth this summer. Alternatively, if you want to discover all the top attractions and places to visit, see how Portsmouth can put the wind in your sails on a short break.

   

Festival vibes by the sea

Get into the festival spirit with a whole host of events bringing the party atmosphere.

Live at the Bandstand is already well into its summer season, so don't miss out as a host of top acts head to the coast during July and September. With the typical Bandstand field out of action due to the Coastal Defence Works, this year's event takes place on Castle Field. What hasn't changed, though, is the offer of something for all tastes and interests, with a revolving line up of bands, singers and DJs bringing myriad sounds to the stage. So pack a picnic and head down for some free live music!

If Live at the Bandstand wasn't enough, there's also the Summer Sessions at the Queens Hotel, just a short walk from Castle Field. Promising the coolest summer vibes, the Sunday Sessions see live performers showcase their talents in the newly refurbished hotel gardens, so you can while away a sunny afternoon with a chilled glass of wine and some entertainment. What's not to love?

Of course, the big live music event taking place this summer is Victorious Festival. The bank holiday bonanza is back for 2022, with Paolo Nutini, Stereophonics and Sam Fender headlining. Elsewhere on the line up you'll find the likes of Primal Scream, Sugababes, The Libertines, Bastille, Anne-Marine, Nothing But Thieves and Suede. There's also a great comedy line up, featuring Joel Dommett, Katherine Ryan, Rosie Jones, Russell Kane and local hero Suzi Ruffell. Plus, don't forget the fantastic family area, with fairground rides, live appearances, fun activities and much more.

The summer's festivals aren't all about music, though. The Portsmouth International Kite Festival is back on Southsea Common, slightly earlier this year - the weekend of 30 and 31 July. It welcomes flyers from all over the world, bringing with them fun novelty kites in all shapes and sizes, as well as acrobatic dancing kites for displays of sensational tricks and routines.

  

Fun for the family

Looking for things to do with the kids this summer? Look no further! Here's what the whole family can get out and enjoy.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard has a huge selection of events taking place throughout the school holidays - all of which are free of charge with your regular entry ticket.

There's everything from creative craft events to interactive trails, meetings with Tudor kings, archaeology activities, challenging gun drills, storytelling, calligraphy, 16^th century games and even have-a-go archery.

Head off Portsea Island and you'll find plenty more to keep the kids happy. Fort Nelson sees the return of its Junior Assault Course, and is also offering free trails around the museum (which itself has free entry). Kids can learn all about heavy artillery from the old fortification overlooking Portsmouth and the Solent.

Meanwhile, over at Port Solent there's the regular Kids Club - featuring fun discos, craft activities, bird of prey displays, music workshops, magic shows and plenty more besides. The Kids Club takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the holidays and is totally free - as is the car parking at Port Solent.

  

Outdoor theatre

Winter might have panto season, but summer can certainly give it a run for its money with its outdoor shows. If you've never taken in live performance in the open air, maybe this summer is the time to do so.

First up is Rapunzel within the stunning surrounds of Southsea Castle. IK Productions brings this classic tale to life with a riotous, 'delightfully daft' production that will get all generations laughing along.

Then, up at Portchester Castle you can see Shakespeare's Othello - given a 1950s Argentina-style makeover by Changeling Theatre. If you like House of Cards, you'll love this tragedy of jealousy, betrayal and manipulation.

  

And that's not all…

In fact, there's way more to do this summer. How about taking a vintage bus tour of Southsea? Hop on and off a classic double decker at the monthly service of the City of Portsmouth Preserved Transport Depot. Taking place on 24 July, 21 August and 25 September, the service has multiple stops across Southsea, where you can jump on and off as many times as you like - totally free.

Also free is Sampled, which returns to Portsmouth Guildhall this August. Step inside to discover more about the great activities being offered all year round at the Guildhall. There will also be live music, workshops, retro board games and enough fun activities to keep you entertained all day long.

Of course, we couldn't cover the things to do in Portsmouth this summer without going out on the water! The Scenic Solent Cruises return for the first time since the pandemic, with a series of guided trips around Portsmouth Harbour. Take along your own lunch and beverages to enjoy a stunning hour-long trip out on the water.

  

As ever, our Events pages are where you'll find all the details on what's on in Portsmouth - so be sure to check back regularly for all the information ahead of your next visit.