One of Portsmouth's most unique family events has officially sold out, with hundreds of parents and children set to descend on Pitt St Skatepark this weekend for SOAKED – The Secret Society Family Summer Rave.

Returning after a hugely successful debut last summer, SOAKED has quickly established itself as one of the city's most talked-about family events, offering something completely different from the usual school holiday activities.

Rather than soft play or theme parks, SOAKED brings families together on the dancefloor for an afternoon of music, laughter and what organisers describe as the UK's biggest family water fight experience.

Full event flyer | S Hale (Secret Society)

placeholder image — Full event flyer | S Hale (Secret Society)

The event, taking place on Sunday 2nd August, will see over 300 free water pistols handed out before the arena erupts into a giant water battle, with families of all ages joining in.

Organiser Stephen "DjFatSteve" Hale, founder of The Secret Society, said the response has exceeded expectations.

"Last year we had no idea how people would react to the concept. It sold out, and the feedback was incredible. Families were telling us it was one of the best days they'd ever had together. We knew we had to bring it back bigger this year, but to see it sell out again is amazing."

FatSteve's DJ partner and fellow organiser, Dave Castellano, believes the event has become successful because it gives families something they simply can't experience anywhere else.

Event running order | S Hale (Secret Society)

"As DJs we've played clubs, festivals and raves all over the country, but nothing compares to seeing parents and children sharing the dancefloor together. Watching mums and dads become kids again, dancing with their children and laughing through a giant water fight is something really special. That's what makes SOAKED different – it's about creating genuine memories that families will still be talking about years from now."

Unlike many children's events, SOAKED isn't built around entertainers or mascots. Instead, it recreates the atmosphere of a real dance music event in a family-friendly environment, giving parents the chance to enjoy the music they love while making unforgettable memories with their children.

This year's line-up is headed by Portsmouth dance music legend DJ Hixxy, joined by BCXD, DjFatSteve, Dave Castellano, MC Skatty, MC Mono, Trilogy and a host of local performers.

The highlight of the day comes during the final headline set, when the music builds and the entire crowd takes part in the now-famous giant water fight that has become the event's signature moment.

DjFatSteve performing at last year's Family Event at Pitt St Skatepark | S Hale (Secret Society)

With tickets selling out before the event, organisers say the demand shows there is a real appetite for alternative family entertainment in Portsmouth.

Hale added: "Families want experiences they can enjoy together. Watching parents running around with water pistols, dancing alongside their children and forgetting about everything else for a few hours is exactly what The Secret Society is all about. That's why people keep coming back."

Castellano believes the sell-out is also a sign of how the local community has embraced the event.

"Portsmouth has really got behind us. People trust that we're putting on something safe, fun and completely unique. We can't wait to welcome everyone on Sunday and give families another day they'll never forget."

Following consecutive sell-outs, organisers are already looking ahead to future events, with hopes of making SOAKED an annual fixture in Portsmouth's summer calendar.

As hundreds of families prepare to fill Pitt St Skatepark this weekend, one thing is certain: Portsmouth is about to host one of its biggest, wettest and most memorable family events of the summer.