In Our Words is a year-long festival of literature, literacy, and storytelling – designed to inspire, engage, and connect people of all ages.

From celebrating Portsmouth’s famous literary figures to everyday reading In Our Words will bring books, writing, and creativity to life through events, workshops, and community-driven projects.

Whether you’re a book lover, aspiring writer, or want to read more but unsure where to start this is your year to discover, learn, and share in the power of words!

Coming to an event?
Get ready for a fantastic lineup of literary experiences, from author talks and poetry slams to interactive storytelling, creative writing workshops, and family-friendly book-themed events. Whether you’re here to listen, learn, or create, there’s something for everyone!

Want to contribute?
We’re calling on writers, artists, educators, and community groups to bring fresh, bold, and creative ideas to the programme. If you have a passion for words and storytelling, this is your chance to shape Portsmouth’s literary legacy. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember! Email projects@portsmouthcreates.co.uk for more information.

Read Our Latest Updates

  • Portsmouth BookFest: Film Programme – IN OUR WORDS 2026

  • Portsmouth BookFest: Children’s Week – IN OUR WORDS 2026

  • Portsmouth BookFest: Adult’s Programme – IN OUR WORDS 2026

  • I Am Born – IN OUR WORDS 2026

  • National Storytelling Week 2026

  • PORTSMOUTH SCHOOLS WE NEED YOU!

  • WRITING FOR WELLBEING – IN OUR WORDS 2025

  • KETTLE TALES WRITING GROUP – IN OUR WORDS 2025

  • FESTIVAL OF LIGHT LANTERN PARADE – IN OUR WORDS 2025

  • SEAWORDS SCRIBBLING SOCIAL – IN OUR WORDS 2025

  • WRITING FROM FOLKLORE AND NATURE WITH VICRORIA LESLIE – IN OUR WORDS 2025

  • EDITING CLUB ONLINE – IN OUR WORDS 2025

  • WRITING FOR WELLBEING – IN OUR WORDS 2025

  • WRITE TO BE HEARD – IN OUR WORDS 2025

  • POET LAUREATE SIMON ARMITAGE INSPIRES PORTSMOUTH PUPILS IN FREE LIVE LITERATURE EVENT – In Our Words 2025

  • Portsmouth “year of storytelling” sparks record-breaking summer reading challenge – IN OUR WORDS 2025

  • traditional stage with a projection reading This year it was your turn, lots of school children in the audience.

    YEAR 5 BOOK AWARDS – IN OUR WORDS 2025

  • Majid standing on stage with a mic, black and white image.

    MEET MAJID: A VOICE AT THE HEART OF REFUGEE WEEK

  • MEET PORTSMOUTH’S WRITERS, POETS & WORDSMITHS

  • A HUGE THANK YOU TO SOUTH WESTERN RAILWAY AND STAGECOACH SOUTH FOR SUPPORTING IN OUR WORDS

  • IN OUR WORDS LAUNCHES WITH OVER 350 LOCAL SCHOOL CHILDREN

  • The words In Our Words 2025 appear in bright colour shapes

    IN OUR WORDS – GET INVOLVED IN PORTSMOUTH’S 2025 YEAR OF LITERATURE