Portsmouth100: Portsmouth's fireworks

Portsmouth's fireworks are back at Southsea Common on Tuesday 3 November, a huge free display over the common that's open to everyone. It's part of the Portsmouth100 celebrations marking the city's centenary, so it's one of the bigger things on the calendar this year. The whole thing is run by the city, and because it's free, it's as easy as turning up with whoever you fancy.

It's built as a family event, so it's not just about the fireworks. There'll be stalls and entertainment on site for the kids, and the whole thing is aimed at all ages, not just the usual crowd. If you're heading down with a group, that's the kind of night it's set up for.

Looking at how it's run in previous years, the site usually opens around 16:00, with the stalls, live music and food running throughout the afternoon. The main fireworks display then kicks off from 19:00, with the whole thing wrapping up around 20:00. It's a good way to spend a few hours rather than just showing up for the display itself, so if you've got the afternoon free, getting there early lets you make a proper evening of it.

One practical thing to keep in mind: it's a big site and it draws a crowd, so it's worth thinking about how you're getting there. Walking, cycling or taking public transport is the easiest way to avoid the traffic. The display is free, the site opens at 16:00, and the fireworks start at 19:00 on Tuesday 3 November at Southsea Common.