Supporting Local Businesses - Victorious Festival
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Supporting Local Businesses

Neighbourhood Eats – Supporting Local Food Heroes

We launched Neighbourhood Eats in 2022 to shine a spotlight on the incredible food talent right here in our local area.
We realised that while many smaller food businesses were keen to be part of the festival, some weren’t used to large-scale events, or simply couldn’t afford the usual pitch fees.

That’s why we created a dedicated, subsidised zone just for PO postcode-registered caterers—making it easier than ever for local businesses to get involved and serve up their delicious food to thousands of festival-goers.

Neighbourhood Eats Award

Every year, we give one standout local caterer from the previous festival a completely free pitch for the following year—helping them grow their business with even more exposure.

Past winners include:

The People’s Choice Award

In 2024, we introduced the People’s Choice Award – giving the power to the public! Festival fans can vote online for their favourite local food trader from the previous year, with the winner also receiving a free pitch at the next festival.

Votes are cast via our social media channels and mailing list – and this year’s well-deserved winner was Piecaramba!

Supporting Local Businesses – Even Beyond the Festival

We don’t just support local traders inside the festival grounds. Our readmission policy lets attendees come and go until 8pm, meaning they’re free to explore local shops, bars, cafés, and restaurants nearby throughout the weekend.

This approach helps boost trade across the city – not just on the festival site. Since Victorious Festival 2014, Portsmouth has seen a real economic uplift from the event. Hotels are packed, high streets are bustling, and local businesses thrive.

Plus, our festival leaves a lasting impression—over a third of our visitors say they leave with a more positive view of Portsmouth and are more likely to return in the future.

That’s something we’re incredibly proud of.

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