The Ultimate Guide to Victorious Festival 2025: What You Must Not Miss
It’s almost time to join the Pompeii Party because Victorious Festival is just around the corner, and we’ve got the inside scoop on some of the must-see highlights for this year’s event on Southsea Common. Get ready for an unforgettable weekend…
LAST FEW TICKETS HERE
Four Bands You Might Have Skipped If We Didn’t Warn You
Getdown Services – Under The Trees, 20:45, Sunday
Infamously the band who secured a potentially career-changing live slot on the BBC2 Glastonbury coverage this year, playing their opus ‘Dog Dribble’ in the backstage tellie-tubby inspired compound… only to have the opening of the song interrupted by a rude wasp flying into the Ben Sadler’s mouth.
But seriously, Getdown Services are funnier than Yard Act if a bit fatter than Mike Skinner…and they play a joyous brand of observational post-punk power-pop disco that will immediately explain to you how they have sold out three massive tours (hundreds of shows) by word of mouth, and recently had to add an extra Electric Ballroom =date to their London appearance.
HotWax – main stage, 12:15, Friday
Guys, if we’ve told you once, we’ve told you a thousand times – don’t miss seeing HotWax live!
HotWax at TGE2023. TGE Beach stage
Lauded as a new contender to the Nirvana crown, this youthful three-piece band have been noisily taking the music world by storm for the past five years or more. And they are only just all turning 21.
So check into the festival early to catch the opening set on the main stage, safe in the knowledge that in five more years when you are watching them headline you can say ‘I was there’.
The Pill – main stage, 12:10, Saturday
If you are visiting Victorious from The Island (that’s the Isle of Wight to you non-residents) you can’t have failed to see that Level 42, The Bees, and Wet Leg have a new contender for ‘best thing to come from the UK south of Cowes’.
They are called The Pill, they are young and feisty, and if you love bands of the ilk of Panic Shack then this will be your new favourite meal deal.
Yet again, a great reason to hit the festival early.
Kid Kapichi – Castle Stage, 15:05, Saturday
Hey – haven’t Kid Kapichi split up? Didn’t they play their last gig a month or so ago?
Well, yes and no.
The original Hastings quartet have indeed parted ways, with Ben and George moving (amicably) onto pastures new. But Jack and Eddie continue to fly the Kapichi flag, delivering powerful social commentary inspired by bands such as The Specials and Madness, but played with an intense contemporary edge.
The best reason to stay on site for a few more hours after watching The Pill before grabbing a few cheeky pints in town and getting back well before gates close for re-admission at 8pm.
Ten More Things Do While At Victorious
1. Kings of Leon: Headlining the Common Stage
Sunday night is going to be epic! Three-time Grammy Award-winners Kings of Leon are taking over the Common Stage from 9:20 PM to 10:50 PM. Expect an incredible set packed with classic hits and fan favorites from their extensive 9-album catalogue. It’s the perfect way to close out the festival!
2. Comedy on the Main Stage
For the first time ever, Victorious is bringing comedy to the Common Stage. This means thousands more of you can catch a laugh. Joel Dommett kicks things off on Friday, followed by Chris McCausland on Saturday. And on Sunday afternoon, get ready for a set from the legendary Jasper Carrott. Don’t miss it!
3. The Seaside Stage: Beats and Swing Take Over
Party with a view! The iconic Seaside Stage is back, and it’s being presented by Victorious’ very own Beats and Swing crew. With stunning views of the Solent, you can watch big ships and little ships sail by while you dance to a huge lineup including Mike Skinner (DJ set), Betty Boo, Utah Saints, Nathan Dawe, and more.
4. Southsea Skatepark: A Hub of High-Energy Fun
Looking for something different? Head over to the Southsea Skatepark. From high-energy roller discos to thrilling demos, there’s always something going on to keep you entertained.
5. Road to Victorious Winner: Mackenzie
Catch the talented Mackenzie, this year’s “Road to Victorious” winner, on the Castle Stage on Saturday from 2:05 PM to 2:35 PM. She’ll be bringing the vibes for her final festival performance of the season after a successful run at Truck, Y-Not, and Kendal Calling.
6. Neighbourhood Eats: A Taste of Portsmouth
Hungry? Head to Neighbourhood Eats to support local, independent food businesses. These PO postcode vendors get a subsidized rate, and you can help them win awards like the “People’s Choice.” This year’s winner is Piecaramba, so be sure to stop by their stall…
7. Kids Arena: A Festival Within a Festival
Bring the family and enjoy the Kids Arena, a ‘mini festival in itself’! Highlights include live performances from MC Grammar, Hacker T Dog & Katie Thistleton, and family pop party Pop Kids. Plus, there are meet and greets with Sonic the Hedgehog, Peppa Pig, and roaming dinosaurs!
8. BSL Interpreters: Accessibility at the Forefront
Victorious is proud to feature Performance Interpreting, an incredibly talented team providing passionate and mesmerizing interpretations for d/Deaf and accessible customers at both the Common and Castle stages.
9. Henry’s House: A Historic Party Spot
Step through the beautiful flower arch by local florist Ewa at Blossom Boutique and into Henry’s House at Southsea Castle. This unique and fun historic fort setting offers bubbles and DJ sets—a perfect spot to take a break from the main stages.
10. World Music Stage: Global Sounds
Get ready for some incredible acts on the World Music Stage, including London’s ONLY all-female brass band, She’s Got Brass, fresh from their Glastonbury performance. Also performing on Sunday are the hugely popular sea shanty band, The Wellermen. Don’t miss these amazing sounds.
Victorious 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best yet. We’ll be there early…make sure you are too.
