August 1, 2026
Thousands of people gathered at Victoria Park in the heart of our lovely city on Saturday 1st August for Portsmouth Cultural Festival, as families, community groups and visitors from across the city came together to celebrate culture, community and diversity.
Delivered by URBOND, the festival formed part of Portsmouth City 100, celebrating a century since Portsmouth was granted city status, bringing together 100 different organisations to host this event. Creating a vibrant space where people of all ages and backgrounds could experience the rich diversity that makes Portsmouth unique.
Throughout the day, the park was transformed with colourful performances, interactive activities and community experiences. Visitors enjoyed an exciting programme of live music, cultural dance and entertainment from talented local performers representing cultures from around the world.
A bustling marketplace showcased local charities, community organisations and businesses, while food vendors served authentic dishes from across the globe, giving visitors the opportunity to experience a wide variety of international cuisines without leaving Portsmouth.
The event was made possible through the support of partners, sponsors, volunteers and community organisations, whose contribution helped create this wonderful celebration for everyone.
Ousmane Drame, CEO of URBOND, said:
"The Portsmouth Cultural Festival was about bringing people together through culture, conversation and celebration. Seeing thousands of people enjoying performances, sharing food, learning about different cultures and connecting with one another showed exactly what makes Portsmouth such a special city. We are incredibly grateful to every performer, volunteer, partner and visitor who helped make this event such a success."
URBOND hopes the success of this year's event marks the beginning of a new annual tradition, continuing to celebrate the people, cultures and communities that make Portsmouth one of the UK's most welcoming and diverse cities.
Representative of the Portsmouth Sudanese Community, wrote:
"Saturday 1st August, a day to remember. This year's Portsmouth Cultural Festival was more than just a successful event, it was a powerful example of what can be achieved when communities come together with trust, respect and a shared purpose.
For the first time, we truly felt like genuine partners, working alongside URBOND and other communities as one united team. The atmosphere throughout the day was welcoming, inclusive and inspiring, with everyone valued and encouraged to contribute.
As members of the Sudanese community, we left feeling proud to be part of something that celebrated diversity as a strength. The festival showed how meaningful partnerships can build stronger, more connected communities, and we believe this is just the beginning of something truly special.
Thank you to Ousmane, the URBOND team, every volunteer and every organisation involved for creating an event that brought people together and demonstrated the true spirit of inclusion, collaboration and community."
– Bashir Ahmed
Chair of Chat Over Chai said, “I honestly can't believe it's all come to an end. It's been such an incredible journey, one that I will treasure forever. There have been so many memories, so much laughter, so much happiness and so many friendships made along the way.
To Ousmane Drame and everyone at URBOND thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your vision, passion, tireless hard work and unwavering dedication made this incredible celebration possible. None of this would have happened without you, our city is better for everything you have done.
I feel immensely proud and deeply honoured to have played even a small part in something so meaningful. This wasn't just an event it was a celebration of who we are, what we stand for and everything that makes Portsmouth such an extraordinary place to call home.
My heart is full and although this chapter has come to an end, the memories and the pride will stay with me forever.
Thank you.”
Find out more about the Portsmouth Cultural Festival HERE