From soulful jazz to Latin beats, Live at the Bandstand is back, bringing Portsmouth to life with a summer full of unforgettable music. This year’s lineup is bigger, better, and more exciting, with the iconic Southsea Bandstand making a grand comeback after years of absence due to sea defense renovations. Get ready to experience Portsmouth like never before with 13 free music events that promise to fill your weekends with joy, rhythm, and lots of local talent.
Portsmouth’s Most Beloved Summer Musical Tradition Returns
For over a decade, Live at the Bandstand has been a staple summer event for music enthusiasts in Portsmouth. The free music series showcases the city’s finest talent across genres, from reggae and ska to indie rock and jazz. This year’s series also coincides with some of Portsmouth’s major events, including Armed Forces Day and the popular Kite Festival, making it much more than just a music experience.
Here’s the best part from Southsea Common’s wide open spaces to Victoria Park’s lush serenity and Castle Field’s coastal charm, the event series journeys through the city’s most scenic locations. And, yes, the Southsea Bandstand is back! After its absence over the past few years, the bandstand will once again serve as a focal point for one of Portsmouth’s most vibrant traditions.
2025 Bandstand Lineup Revealed
Are you ready to mark your calendars? Here’s the full lineup of this year’s Live at the Bandstand series.
May Events
- May 25, Southsea Bandstand – Showcase from The Wedgewood Rooms
Kick off the series with an incredible day of music curated by Southsea’s beloved live music space, The Wedgewood Rooms.
June Events
- June 1, Southsea Bandstand – Nick Courtney Brings Ska Day to the Bandstand
Get your dancing shoes ready for a high-energy ska celebration!
- June 8, Southsea Bandstand – The Hill Brothers and Friends in Showcase from The Casemates
Enjoy a spectacular showcase featuring the irresistible sounds of The Hill Brothers.
- June 15, Southsea Bandstand – Golden Touch Closing Party (Indie Rock/Pop)
Celebrate the spirit of indie music with a day filled with crowd-pleasing anthems.
- June 21, Southsea Common – The Bandstand at Armed Forces Day
Join us in honoring Armed Forces Day with music courtesy of The Wedgewood Rooms.
- June 29, Victoria Park – Jazz in the Park
Relax under the trees with melodic jazz that’ll transport you straight to a sultry 1920s nightclub.
July Events
- July 5, Castle Field – Hits Across the Decades
Take a musical tour from rock’n roll to modern pop, all in one day!
- July 6, Castle Field – Ska, Reggae, Funk, Soul, Blues
Experience a groovy, genre-mashing celebration of diverse soundscapes.
- July 13, Victoria Park – Live Latin Band, DJ, and Salsa Lesson
Heat up your Sunday with the irresistible rhythms of Latin music and a dance lesson.
- July 20, King George V Playing Field – Southsea Squad Presents Soot Sprite with Perkie, Jalou, and Sadie Hunter
An innovative mix of indie, soulful melodies, and emerging local talent awaits you.
- July 26-27, Southsea Common – Fresh Acoustic Sounds at the Kite Festival
Celebrate the colorful Kite Festival with laid-back acoustic sounds as stunning kites soar above.
August Events
- August 3, Southsea Bandstand – The Motorshow, The Maddocks, and Big Long Sun
End the summer on a high note with energetic performances that promise an unforgettable finale!
All events are free and take place from 1 PM to 4 PM unless otherwise stated. Do note that the schedule might change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, but updates will be shared on their official social media channels including facebook.com/LiveAtTheBandstand.
Why You Should Visit Live at the Bandstand
This isn’t just about music; it’s about community, memories, and celebrating Portsmouth’s unique culture. Here’s why you shouldn’t miss this year’s event lineup:
- Stunning Locations: Performances take place at some of Portsmouth’s most iconic and scenic venues.
- Something for Everyone: There’s a genre to please every music lover, from ska enthusiasts to Latin dance fans.
- Support Local Talent: Be a part of Portsmouth’s thriving music scene by cheering on its incredible performers.
- Family Friendly: Grab your picnic blanket and bring the whole family to enjoy a day of live music and fun.
Plan Your Summer with Live at the Bandstand
Whether you’re a Portsmouth local or just visiting, Live at the Bandstand is your perfect excuse to soak up the sun, make memories, and reconnect with the magic of live music. Don’t forget your sunscreen and dancing shoes because this summer is going to be one to remember.
Stay in the loop with updates and any potential weather related changes by following the event’s official page here: facebook.com/LiveAtTheBandstand.