Leeds is buzzing with exciting festivals and events this summer — from major music acts to family days out and incredible food experiences. Here's your ultimate guide, sorted by date so you won’t miss a thing:
May 2025
Live at Leeds: In The Park
Date: Saturday, 24th May 2025
Location: Temple Newsam
Overview: Indie and alternative music fans can enjoy performances from Bloc Party, Natasha Bedingfield, Manic Street Preachers, Sigrid, and more in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Slam Dunk Festival – North
Date: Sunday, 25th May 2025
Location: Temple Newsam
Overview: A must for punk and alternative rock lovers, featuring bands like A Day To Remember, Neck Deep, and Alkaline Trio.
Kaiser Chiefs – 20th Anniversary Show
Date: Saturday, 31st May 2025
Location: Temple Newsam
Overview: Celebrate 20 years of 'Employment' with Leeds legends Kaiser Chiefs, plus Razorlight, The Cribs, The Coral, and We Are Scientists.
June 2025
Garforth Arts Festival
Dates: Throughout June–July 2025
Location: Garforth
Overview: Enjoy music, dance, visual arts, and performances, culminating in the popular "Playground Party."
July 2025
Leeds Waterfront Festival
Dates: Saturday 5th – Sunday 6th July 2025
Location: Leeds Dock and waterfront areas
Overview: A lively, free festival featuring dragon boat races, street performers, music, and activities along the waterfront.
Morley Music Festival
Date: Saturday, 5th July 2025
Location: Morley Rugby Club
Overview: Family-friendly live music event with food stalls, performances, and local talent.
Kirkstall Festival
Date: Saturday, 12th July 2025
Location: Kirkstall Abbey
Overview: A traditional community festival packed with crafts, food, music, and family fun.
Fabulous Foods and Fancy Feasts
Dates: Saturday 19th – Sunday 20th July 2025
Location: Temple Newsam
Overview: Dive into historic feasts and culinary displays exploring how people dined through the ages.
Summer Holidays at Temple Newsam
Dates: 23rd July – 31st August 2025
Location: Temple Newsam
Overview: Daily family-friendly activities, trails, crafts, and art workshops during the school holidays.
August 2025
Leeds Vegan Summer Festival
Dates: Saturday 9th – Sunday 10th August 2025
Location: Project House, Armley Road
Overview: Celebrate vegan living with 70+ stalls, food, talks, and live performances.
Temple Newsam Food Festival
Dates: Saturday 16th – Sunday 17th August 2025
Location: Temple Newsam
Overview: A huge food and drink celebration with live chef demos, street food, artisan markets, and kids' entertainment.
Leeds Festival
Dates: Thursday 21st – Sunday 24th August 2025
Location: Bramham Park
Headliners: Travis Scott, Hozier, Bring Me The Horizon, Chappell Roan
Overview: One of the UK's biggest festivals, showcasing rock, pop, rap, and electronic music.
Leeds West Indian Carnival
Date: Monday, 25th August 2025
Location: Chapeltown
Overview: Europe’s oldest Caribbean Carnival features vibrant costumes, parades, music, and delicious food.
September 2025
Leeds International Beer Festival
Dates: September 2025 (exact dates TBA)
Location: Leeds Town Hall
Overview: Craft beer lovers rejoice with hundreds of beers from around the globe, plus food vendors and live music.
All Summer Long
Inspired by Temple Newsam: Art Exhibition
Dates: 25th April – 21st September 2025
Location: Temple Newsam
Overview: View works by Leeds Fine Artists inspired by the stunning estate and join creative workshops throughout summer.
Plan Your Summer in Leeds!
With so much happening — from Temple Newsam's packed schedule to major citywide celebrations — Leeds is the perfect place for an unforgettable summer. Make sure to check event websites for updates and tickets!