A delightful collection of locally-themed short stories for children. Bursting with fun, local characters, this charming poetry book is a wonderful way to celebrate the spirit of Portsmouth. Don’t miss out on this enchanting addition to your bookshelf.
Read MorePosted: 2nd October, 2026
Looking for something spooky to do in Southsea this October? Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre is celebrating Halloween with a month of classic horror films, Dracula screenings, a young artists' exhibition and its first Halloween Costume Party.
Running throughout October, the programme brings together almost a century of horror cinema, from The Phantom of the Opera (1925) and Dracula (1931) to modern interpretations including Nosferatu and Dracula: A Love Tale.
Film fans can enjoy a suitably spooky selection throughout October, including Halloween (1978), Blacula, Carnival of Souls, Dr. Terror’s House of Horrors and Bram Stoker’s Dracula.A particular focus is Dracula, with several interpretations of the legendary vampire appearing on the big screen. It’s a chance to see how the character and his story have changed across different generations of cinema. The Halloween season finishes on 31 October with a special screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, complete with audience participation and a cinema cocktail included with each ticket.
For the first time, Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre will also be hosting its own Halloween Costume Party on Friday 30 October, from 5pm until 10pm. Visitors are encouraged to dress as their favourite vampire, monster, movie character or anything else inspired by Halloween. There will also be prizes for the best costume and best makeup.
Young artists are being invited to create their own Dracula artwork as part of a special Halloween competition. Selected illustrations will form part of the Dracula Illustration Exhibition, which runs at Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre from 8 October until 1 November, with a preview on 8 October at 5pm.,Artwork can be submitted at the cinema or emailed directly to the venue.
The Halloween 2026 programme includes:
Whether you’re a fan of classic horror, fancy yourself as Dracula for the evening or simply want something different to do this October, Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre has plenty happening in the run-up to Halloween. And for younger ghosts and ghouls, don’t forget to check out our free Halloween stories for kids for even more spooky fun at home.
Ready for a spooky night at the movies? Book your Halloween screening at Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre and enjoy some classic horror on the big screen. With a packed programme throughout October, it’s a great way to celebrate Halloween in Portsmouth this year.
Want to meet interesting people? New to Southsea? Need to get out more? Southsea Meetups has been setup to help you connect with Southsea residents.