The events are organised by the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF Fun Pompey) programme, who provide free sessions and food for Portsmouth’s school-aged children receiving benefits-related free school meals in the Easter, summer and Christmas school holidays.
Portsmouth families who are HAF eligible can enjoy a day of free activities, hot meals and creative workshops all designed to bring people together, promote healthy living, and spread Christmas cheer. As the events are for families, all children must be accompanied by their parent(s) or guardian(s).
The two events will both run at the John Pounds Centre, 23 Queen Street, Portsmouth, PO1 3HN.
Creative Bites! Food, Family Fun & Activities (12pm-4pm) offers a structured experience where families rotate through team games, hands-on cookery sessions where they can take their meal home, and craft workshops. Participants will also enjoy a hot lunch from BRAT BROS, with options including chicken gyros, halloumi pittas, bratwurst rolls and falafel wraps. Vegetarian, vegan and halal choices are available.
HAF a Day of Festive Family Fun! (1pm-4pm) provides a more relaxed, free-flow format, with activities such as Lego building, dodgeball, Nerf blasters, mini-Olympics and festive crafts. Families can also enjoy unlimited access to Portsea Adventure Playground and a hearty jacket potato lunch with delicious toppings courtesy of Portsmouth’s Jacket Potato Ladies.
Both events will feature stalls from local organisations offering advice and support. Every family attending will be entered into a prize draw to win a Ninja Air Fryer or one of two Nutribullet blenders and families will receive free festive hampers provided by Waitrose Southsea.
Cllr Nicholas Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education, said:
“We know the festive season can be a challenging time for many families and we’re here to offer some much-needed support. These events are about more than just fun – they’re an opportunity to share a meal, learn new skills, and connect with local support services.
“Portsmouth City Council is committed to making sure every child has the chance to thrive, and initiatives like HAF Fun Pompey are a vital part of that.”
The sessions are free, but booking is essential. Families must have at least one HAF-eligible child to attend. To reserve a place, visit eequ.org/haffunpompey.
Not sure if you’re eligible? Visit portsmouth.gov.uk and search ‘free school meals’ to apply.