In Pictures: Breathtaking scenes as hundreds attend Portsmouth Kite Festival 2026

Vibrant kites of all shapes and sizes have filled the skies of Southsea as the renowned festival attracts hundreds.

Now in its 34th year, the International Kite Festival has transformed Southsea Common into a lively stage for kite enthusiasts. And this year, the event has adopted a special theme - '100 Kites for 100 Years' - to celebrate 100 years of Portsmouth being a city.

Attending the two-day festival was seven-year-old Alexander Wright, who is following in his dad’s footsteps after discovering his passion for the hobby.

Alexander’s dad, Carl, told The News how his dad was advised to do “something relaxing” after undergoing a triple heart bypass decades ago. He purchased a few kites and it quickly became a passion shared by father and son - and now all three generations enjoy the activity.

Carl said: “I wasn’t interested at first but I got into it. The people we bought the kite off, a specialist kite shop, asked if we had tried flying together as a team - that was years ago.”

Recognised as the UK's largest and longest-running kite festival, the event welcomed a fabulous array of kites including giant 3D creations, artistic designs, Quad line kite displays, Japanese fighting kites, altitude sprint and precision flying performances set to music.

Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council and cabinet member for culture, regeneration and economic development, previously 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."

Alongside the main attractions, the free event also had family activities, creative workshops from Seekers Create, the library bus and music from the Live at the Bandstand programme.

Take a look at some incredible pictures from the Portsmouth International Kite Festival 2026: