Event Highlights in May

May promises to be a bustling month in Portsmouth, with not one but two bank holiday weekends, as well as a half term holiday thrown in for good measure.

For that reason there's a whole host of events scheduled for this month, from free, family-friendly activities in the great outdoors, to some of the best shows and participatory events at Portsmouth's many venues.

Take a read through some of our highlights below, or scroll down for the full listings.

Dance the night away

Whether you want to dance into the wee hours yourself, or watch the professionals do it, there are options aplenty.

South Central Festival heads to King George V Playing Fields over the second Bank Holiday weekend, bringing with it huge names in the world of dance and hip hop. You could see the likes of Craig David, Boy George, Sean Paul, Sigma, John Newman and Armand Van Helden - alongside a great many more.

If you'd rather sit back and watch the professionals strut their stuff you have not one but two great shows to see. Strictly Come Dancing: The Professionals heads to Portsmouth Guildhall, bringing with it all the glitz and glamour of the BBC hit - along with many of the professional dancers that entertain us on those wintry Saturday nights.

Speaking of Strictly stars, the current champion, Kevin Clifton, stars alongside newer recruit Graziano Di Prima in Burn the Floor, which continues to wow audiences year-in, year-out. The show heads to the New Theatre Royal on 17 May.

A drink and a think

May sees the return of Pint of Science events across the city, where academics from a whole host of different fields take their research out to the public - and by which we mean public. For at Pint of Science, you can hear all about cutting edge thinking and developments at various city pubs - to very much enjoy a drink and a think. There are topics to suit all interests, so it's worth taking a look at what's on offer.

If all that sounds a bit taxing, why not relax instead at the Rumfest. This is a festival with a difference, though, as it takes place in Portsmouth Cathedral. What better views are there to be had whilst enjoying a tot than the building that is simultaneously one of the country's newest and oldest cathedrals - pop along to learn why.

Summer season starts

May also brings with it the first of Portsmouth's ever-popular summer events. Live at the Bandstand kicks off with its opening event on 26 May, featuring the Black Kat Boppers, Jukebox Jumpin' and The Southsea Belles. There's no better place to be than the bandstand on a summery weekend.

Meanwhile, the Emirates Spinnaker Tower gives visitors and locals alike a chance to raise a glass to a weekend well spent with its Sunset Sundays. Here you can take in the twilight views of Portsmouth, the Solent and the Isle of Wight, whilst enjoying a glass of bubbly (or whatever else takes your fancy). The event runs every Sunday from 19 May to 4 August.