This year’s festivities have the theme ‘ignite’, and there are dozens of events, including music, exhibitions, theatre, talks, workshops and much more designed ignite the creative spark.
Here’s our pick of just 10 of the events taking place during the five-day run.
Many of the events are family-friendly and free, but some do require tickets. For more details on individual events and to see what else is on offer, go to portsfest.co.uk.
9. Destiny's Child, 2022, by Uduehi Imienwanrin
Group Show is an exhibition at Aspex Gallery in Gunwharf Quays which explores how diverse communities can intersect and coexist with one another. Colours and shapes layer together to represent the various walks of life in our local communities. The exhibition includes works from five emerging and acclaimed contemporary artists – Rakibul Chowdhury, Eileen Cooper, Alice Hayes, Uduehi Imienwanrin, and Janet Sainsbury – whose compelling portraits display moments of care and invite for slow contemplation. Entry is free and the gallery is open daily 11am-4pm. Photo: Uduehi Imienwanrin
10. ‘Pianist without borders’ Fabio Tedde
Portsmouth Keys is a project with multiple events and workshops throughout Ports Fest which all centre around our connection with the piano. Part of this is Pianos for the People – with pianos situated in three public settings for the public to play, or simply be inspired by hearing others play. Visit on June 29 and 30 and you may be lucky enough to hear the inspirational ‘pianist without borders’ Fabio Tedde. The pianos will be at Cascades Shopping Centre, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Portsmouth International Port. Photo: PR