Major Events & Festivals in Leeds, United Kingdom

1. Leeds Festival

Annual music festival held in August featuring top artists across various genres. Held at Bramham Park.

Music Variety: Offers a wide range of music genres, from rock and indie to hip-hop and electronic.
Camping Option: Provides camping facilities for those who want an immersive festival experience.
Big Name Artists: Attracts major artists and bands, making it a must-visit event for music fans.

Largest carnival in Europe celebrating West Indian culture. Held in August.

Cultural Celebration: A vibrant and colourful celebration of West Indian culture, music, food, and dance.
Community Involvement: Involves local communities and encourages participation from people of all backgrounds.
Parade and Music Events: Features a large parade with decorated floats, steel bands, dancers, and sound systems.

Traditional German-style Christmas market held in November and December.

Unique Stalls: Offers unique gifts, food, and drinks not typically found in regular markets.
Authentic German Food: Serves authentic German cuisine such as bratwurst, glühwein, and stollen.
Festive Atmosphere: Creates a festive atmosphere with twinkling lights, decorated stalls, and live music.

Annual art and light festival showcasing installations, performances, and workshops.

Artistic Installations: Features unique and thought-provoking artistic installations.
Community Engagement: Encourages local artists and communities to participate in the event.
Nighttime Experience: Provides a nighttime experience that transforms Leeds city centre into a vibrant art gallery.

Annual celebration of LGBTQ+ culture in August.

Parade and March: Large parade and march through the city centre, with floats, music, and dancing.
Community Support: Supports local LGBTQ+ organizations and raises awareness for LGBTQ+ rights.
Entertainment and Activities: Offers a variety of entertainment, including music performances, comedy shows, and workshops.

Annual event showcasing a wide range of local and international beers.

Local and International Brews: Features a diverse selection of local and international craft beers.
Educational Sessions: Provides educational sessions on brewing techniques and beer appreciation.
Tasting Opportunities: Allows attendees to sample a variety of beers in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Annual festival celebrating Leeds' rich maritime heritage.

Maritime Heritage: Highlights Leeds' history as a major port city and its connection to the sea.
Interactive Activities: Offers interactive activities, including boat tours, workshops, and demonstrations.
Entertainment and Food: Features live music, street food, and other entertainment along the waterfront.

Annual film festival showcasing a diverse range of international cinema.

International Cinema: Features films from around the world, including premieres and documentaries.
Industry Events: Provides industry events, workshops, and networking opportunities for filmmakers.
Audience Engagement: Encourages audience engagement through Q&A sessions with filmmakers and panel discussions.

Annual food festival celebrating independent restaurants, street food vendors, and pop-ups.

Independent Food Scene: Highlights Leeds' vibrant independent food scene.
Pop-Up Restaurants and Street Food: Features pop-up restaurants, street food vendors, and unique dining experiences.
Workshops and Demonstrations: Offers workshops, demonstrations, and talks by local chefs and food experts.

Annual festival showcasing visual arts, performances, and installations.

Visual Art Exhibitions: Features exhibitions by local, national, and international artists.
Performance Events: Offers a variety of performance events, including theatre, dance, and music.
Community Engagement: Encourages community engagement through workshops, talks, and participatory art projects.

Annual event celebrating comic books, pop culture, and cosplay.

Cosplay Events: Offers cosplay competitions, photoshoots, and workshops.
Guest Appearances: Features guest appearances by actors, writers, and artists from popular comic book series and films.
Merchandise and Artwork: Sells exclusive merchandise, artwork, and collectibles.

Annual festival showcasing various dance styles from around the world.

Dance Styles: Features a wide range of dance styles, including ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, and traditional.
Workshops and Masterclasses: Offers workshops and masterclasses for all ages and abilities.
Performance Opportunities: Provides opportunities for local dance groups and individuals to perform.

Annual multicultural festival celebrating South Asian arts, music, food, and dance.

South Asian Culture: Highlights South Asian culture through music, dance, food, and art.
Community Engagement: Encourages community engagement by involving local organizations and performers.
Food and Dance Performances: Offers a variety of South Asian food stalls and dance performances.

Annual series of classical music concerts featuring world-renowned artists.

World-Renowned Artists: Features performances by internationally acclaimed artists.
Wide Range of Music: Offers a diverse range of classical music, including orchestral, chamber, and choral music.
Historic Venues: Performs in historic venues such as Leeds Town Hall and St. Peter's Church.

Annual festival exploring science, technology, and philosophy through talks, workshops, and exhibitions.

Scientific Discoveries: Features discussions on the latest scientific discoveries and innovations.
Philosophical Debates: Provides opportunities for philosophical debates and discussions.
Hands-On Workshops: Offers hands-on workshops for all ages, allowing participants to engage with science and technology.