The Portsmouth International Kite Festival will return to Southsea Common from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026, bringing two days of free family fun to the seafront as part of Portsmouth’s centenary celebrations.

Supported by Portsmouth City Council and organised in partnership with The Kite Society of Great Britain, the event will mark 100 years since Portsmouth was granted city status with a special theme of ‘100 Kites for 100 Years’.

Recognised as the UK’s largest and longest-running kite festival, the event will fill the skies above Southsea with hundreds of colourful kites, including giant 3D creations, artistic designs and precision flying performances set to music.

Visitors can watch displays from internationally renowned kite flyers from the UK and overseas, including UK and European champions, while enjoying free children’s kite-making workshops, craft activities, a funfair, local traders, refreshments and specialist kite stalls.

The festival will feature live entertainment as part of the popular Live at the Bandstand programme, alongside family activities from BH Live, creative activities from Aspex, creative workshops from Seekers Create and a visit from the library bus.

Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council and Cabinet Member for Culture, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “The Portsmouth International Kite Festival is a well-established event that attracts visitors from across the region and showcases Portsmouth’s seafront.

“As part of our Portsmouth 100 celebrations, the theme of ‘100 Kites for 100 Years’ is a great way to mark Portsmouth’s centenary year. Alongside the kite displays, live entertainment and family activities, it will be a great weekend for residents and visitors.”

Visitors are encouraged to walk, cycle or use public transport where possible. The PR3 Park and Ride service will operate every 10 minutes throughout the weekend, while free bus travel will be available during weekends throughout September with First Bus and Stagecoach.

To help visitors stay comfortable during the event, free water refill points will be available, welfare facilities will be on site, including a calm space for visitors with additional needs, and a dedicated area for breastfeeding parents and families who may need a break from the crowds.

For more information visit visitportsmouth.co.uk/kitefestival