July has arrived so quickly and as always there are so many cool things to get involved in or attend this month.
Even though we have been in a cost-of-living crisis for a while now it hasn’t stopped the creativity of the creative industries, in fact, it has pushed everyone more to keep pushing on. From artists creating new work to events happening across the city, I am loving the creative vibes so far of the Summer!
Portsmouth Pride – Saturday the 6th of July – Southsea Common
Proudly stating that Pride is more than just one day, the Portsmouth Pride team are passionate about making the city one of the most inclusive and diverse locations for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
This Summer event is open to all ages and welcomes all to join in this action-packed day near the seafront. You can read about Pompey Poetry Party who will be joining the Pride Parade.
Stay Lucky Southsea – 10th/12th of July – Elm Grove
Stay Lucky Southsea is a new neighbourhood store opening on Elm Grove. Imagine that great independent gift shop in the lanes in Brighton. This is the vibe. It aims to offer gifts for all ages and have a coffee bar for those passers-by who want a caffeine hit or a refreshing drink. With cool cans like Hip-Pop and Salty Dog crisps, the design of the snacks are as important as the gifts!
Stop by and support the new independent that enhances the amazing indie gift shops we already have in Southsea! Time for a shopping trip anyone?
FatClay Pottery – Friday 12th July – Castle Road
It has been truly amazing to see Matt from FatClay grow his brand and move into this new location on Castle Road. Although this cool space is already open, it looks like it has been there for years and not the short amount of time it has. Officially opening on the 12th of July, it will be a great event with Andrew Foster (who recently had a sell-out show at the Corner Collective), holding his exhibition there.
You can guarantee there will be a selection of work from local ceramicists and workshops for beginners and experienced potters. FatClay says they are celebrating the rich tapestry of talent that defines the pottery community in Portsmouth.
Southsea Big Run – Bringing all Running Clubs Together – 21st of July – Southsea
Running Late Southsea is a fab running group that meet every week for a run. Having grown massively over the last few months, this super cool group of organisers has decided to bring all running groups in the area together for one massive run!
Speaking to one of the organisers, Alice, she said, “We are excited about bringing other groups of runners together to meet each other and make this as much about a social event as much as running and getting fit. It’s about bringing everyone together for our love of running.
“Hopefully it might encourage people to try other clubs and feel confident about keeping fit throughout the week.”
Meet at the Clubhouse at 8.15am for an 8.30am run and then back at the independent cafe afterwards for coffee and a social.
Portsmouth Kite Festival – 27th/28th of July – Southsea Common
Portsmouth International Kite Festival celebrates its 31st festival on the common which offers a sky full of colour and kites! This FREE event will see kites of all sizes and colour with some of the world’s most internationally renowned kite flyers from the UK and abroad there.
The theme for 2024 is “Year of the Dragon” and will provide the opportunity to showcase Dragon kites from the many expert fliers focussing on kites in the shape of, or showing Dragons.
With a whole host of other activities there too including; craft stalls, refreshments, a free children’s kite-making workshop and local amusements. Dedicated kite traders are also on site and they can provide you with a wide range of kites.
