23 unmissable events to put in your diary as city celebrates its 100th birthday this year

Editor

Published 7th Jan 2026, 12:24 BST

A year-long celebration is taking place across Portsmouth in 2026 as this year marks the 100th anniversary of it gaining city status.

Portsmouth100 was officially launched on January 1 at a special free community event featuring a host of voices and iconic images from across the city - as well as music and a short free fireworks display. The lighthouse at Southsea Castle is also lit up for the first time since 2017.

A huge number of events have already been lined up for 2026, with the showpiece being the Pride of Portsmouth Lion Trail Hunt which will see creatively coloured lions places around the city to form a free art trail from July 13 to September 13.

Here are just 23 of the events to put into your diary!

More information about Portsmouth100 and future events are also available on the Portsmouth100 website.

Portsmouth's premier unsigned music festival returns, with a stellar line up of local and fast-rising bands. The event will see more than 80 sets played across eight stages at the Wedgewood Rooms, Edge of the Wedge, Vaults, The Loft, Lord John Russell, The Atrium, One Eyed Dog and The Deco. Details at www.icebreakerfestival.com
Photo by Tony Palmer (@shot_by_tony)

1. Icebreaker Festival - January 31

Portsmouth's premier unsigned music festival returns, with a stellar line up of local and fast-rising bands. The event will see more than 80 sets played across eight stages at the Wedgewood Rooms, Edge of the Wedge, Vaults, The Loft, Lord John Russell, The Atrium, One Eyed Dog and The Deco. Details at www.icebreakerfestival.com Photo by Tony Palmer (@shot_by_tony) | Tony Palmer (@shot_by_tony) Photo: Tony Palmer

The annual civic service at Portsmouth cathedral will this year be a special Centenary Service. More detaisl to follow

2. Centenary Service - March 8

The annual civic service at Portsmouth cathedral will this year be a special Centenary Service. More detaisl to follow | The News Photo: Submitted

Portsmouth FC will mark the city's 100th anniversary at their home game at Fratton Park against Leicester

3. Pompey celebration - April 18

Portsmouth FC will mark the city's 100th anniversary at their home game at Fratton Park against Leicester | Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages

Portsmouth Comic Con is making a welcome return to the Guildhall on May 2 and 3. Filled with costumes, experiences, merchandise and a whole heap of fun it is one not to be missed! Details: portsmouthcomiccon.com
Photo by Alex Shute

4. Portsmouth Comic Con - May 2 and 3

Portsmouth Comic Con is making a welcome return to the Guildhall on May 2 and 3. Filled with costumes, experiences, merchandise and a whole heap of fun it is one not to be missed! Details: portsmouthcomiccon.com Photo by Alex Shute Photo: Alex Shute

Portsmouth100 Portsmouth