Southsea Food Festival in partnership with Hendy will return to the centre of Southsea, in Portsmouth on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July (10am–5pm), with thousands of people expected to attend the popular, award-winning event.  Recently named Event of the Year, this free festival has more than 100 traders taking part to honour the Portsmouth 100 celebrations, marking the centenary since the city was granted city status.

New for 2026, the Tasting Trail will give visitors the chance to sample smaller dishes from a wide range of traders while discovering more about the local businesses behind them.  Festivalgoers can follow a free, self-guided route or book onto a guided experience led by Portsmouth Foodguide, offering curated stops and insider knowledge of the city’s food scene.

The popular Waitrose Kitchen Stage also returns, with live demonstrations and cooking tips from local chefs such as Jordan Thompson (Smoke and Mirrors), Nathaniel Crutchfield (Natty’s Jerk) and Cameron Bradshaw (The Briny) alongside local food producers Baked By Sweet Tooth, Tea Mountain and Pauline Macarons.

Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: “Southsea Food Festival is one of the biggest events in our summer calendar and it’s fantastic to see it recognised as Event of the Year. As part of Portsmouth 100, it’s a great way to bring people into the city, support local businesses and showcase what Portsmouth has to offer.”

James Donougher, Portsmouth Foodguide, said: “The tasting trail is a great addition this year. There’s so much choice at the festival. It helps people discover more, try something new and really connect with Portsmouth’s food scene.”

Visitors can also enjoy live music, family entertainment and a wide mix of food and drink, from street food to local produce.

Southsea Food Festival takes place across Palmerston Road, Clarendon and Osborne Road and Avenue De Caen and is free to attend.

Find out more at rediscoverportsmouth.co.uk/southsea-food-festival