Portsmouth City Council is celebrating the vital role of its markets as part of the national Love Your Local Market campaign running from 15 to 30 May. From fresh produce and street food to independent traders and community events, the Love Your Local Market campaign shines a spotlight on the diversity of Portsmouth’s markets, alongside a programme of special events.
A new live performance programme, Showtime Sundays launches at the popular Love Southsea Market on Sunday 17 May with the Portsmouth Pride Roadshow. This is delivered by Curtain Call Productions in partnership with Portsmouth City Council. On the same day, the South West Surrey Farmers Market returns to Palmerston Road, bringing the freshest, locally sourced products to Southsea
Portsmouth’s rich market heritage will take centre stage with ‘Market Memories’ sessions on 18 May in Cosham High Street and 21 May in Commercial Road, delivered by Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery as part of the Portsmouth 100: Your Museum, Your Stories, Your City project. This major exhibition will open on 26 October 2026 and is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Residents are invited to share their memories and stories of Charlotte Street and Cosham High Street Markets helping to preserve this unique part of the city’s history for a major exhibition planned later in the year.
Food lovers can look forward to Foodie Friday in Commercial Road on 29 May, showcasing local street food alongside Portsmouth Market’s regular food traders.
Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said:
“Our markets are a vital part of Portsmouth’s identity. They bring life to our high streets, support local businesses, and create spaces where people can come together. Through campaigns like Love Your Local Market, we’re celebrating our traders and encouraging more people to discover everything our markets have to offer.
I urge all to make it a market day and support our local traders”
Portsmouth City Council is continuing to invest in its markets to ensure they support local business, boost Portsmouth’s high streets and create inclusive, welcoming spaces for all.
For more information visit rediscoverportsmouth.co.uk/portsmouth-markets