Portsmouth City Council News

20 Oct 2026

Portsmouth100 celebrations light up Southsea Common with annual fireworks spectacular

Portsmouth's annual fireworks display returns to Southsea Common this November, with a special Portsmouth100-themed celebration featuring music spanning the last century, live entertainment, a night market and family fun.

This year's event will be held on Wednesday 4 November and will feature a special Portsmouth100 theme.

The event site will open at 4pm, offering an evening of family entertainment before the fireworks display. This year's spectacular will be set to music from across the last 100 years, celebrating Portsmouth's centenary year. The event will finish at 8pm.

Visitors can enjoy a range of attractions throughout the evening, including a night market, funfair rides and the return of the Live at the Bandstand stage, which will be promoted by Casemates. Entertainment will also be provided by Batala Portsmouth and a range of street performers, including stilt walkers and hula hoopers.

There will be a variety of food and refreshments available on site, offering something for all tastes. 

Careful planning for your journey is advised. Given the expected high levels of attendance, attendees are encouraged to plan their journey and allow extra time. Consider taking the bus, cycling or walking to the event site where possible.

There is not an additional park and ride service for the fireworks on 4 November. If you're travelling in from outside the city, please plan your journey and use public transport where possible.

Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said:

"The annual firework display is one of Portsmouth's most popular events, and we're delighted to bring it back to Southsea Common once again.

"As we celebrate Portsmouth100, this year's display will be extra special, taking residents and visitors on a journey through the last century with music, entertainment and a few surprises along the way. We look forward to welcoming people from across the city to join us for what promises to be a fantastic evening."

Facilities on site will include toilets, first aid, a visitor information point and a welfare tent providing a lost child point, lost and found service, ear defenders and a quiet seating area for anyone feeling overwhelmed.

Ends

 

Contact Information

Charlotte Stamp
Senior Corporate Communications Officer
Portsmouth City Council
charlotte.stamp@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Notes to editors

About Portsmouth100

Portsmouth100 is a year-long programme of events, activities and projects marking the centenary of Portsmouth becoming a city. The celebrations showcase Portsmouth's people, places, culture and heritage, while looking ahead to the city's future. The programme includes community events, cultural activities, public art, exhibitions and city-wide celebrations, bringing residents and visitors together to celebrate 100 years of city status.

For more information about Portsmouth100, visit Portsmouth celebrates 100 years of city status in 2026