Looking for alternative things to do this winter? Head to Wakefield – it’s just a short train ride away.
This winter, Wakefield is brimming with reasons to visit. You can catch a gig at a brand new venue, explore captivating art exhibitions and sup all the craft beer you like. Whether you’re travelling from Leeds, York, Bradford or further afield, Wakefield offers the perfect day out, packed with culture, creativity and festive cheer.
With so much going on, you’ll be spoilt for choice – which is why we made this list. Here’s what you can experience in Wakefield this winter.
Explore a Grade II-listed art space
Credit: Emily Ryalls
The Art House welcomes back their independent makers market this November, showcasing hand-crafted products from local designer-makers. You’ll also be able to explore the artists’ studios and join in with free creative activities. The event kicks off the Makers Wonderland, part traditional Christmas market, part contemporary art exhibition.
When? The Crafted Makers Market and Open House take place on Saturday 8th November 2025, kicking off Makers Wonderland, which runs until Tuesday 23rd December 2025.
Where? The Art House, Drury Lane, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 2TE.
Find out more: the-arthouse.org.uk
Marvel at a stunning light festival
© Copyright Heinrich & Palmer
The ever-popular Light Up Wakefield is back for a weekend of light, colour and free family fun. It all kicks off with the big light switch on on Friday 21st November 2025, followed by the spellbinding Lantern Parade. Don’t miss Ships of the Gods – a captivating installation inspired by Skithblathnir, the magical shapeshifting vessel of Norse mythology.
When? Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd November 2025.
Where? Wakefield city centre.
Find out more: experiencewakefield.co.uk
Wander one of the UK’s best Christmas markets
Credit: The Hepworth Wakefield
Dubbed ‘one of Britain’s best Christmas markets’ by The Guardian, The Hepworth Wakefield Festive Market is the perfect place to kick off your Christmas shopping. Browse stalls from over 75 independent makers selling everything from ceramics and jewellery to prints and food and drink. There’ll be tasty street food too, alongside live music and family fun.
When? Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd November and Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November 2025.
Where? The Hepworth, Gallery Walk, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 5AW.
Find out more: hepworthwakefield.org
Experience Christmas at Nostell
© Copyright National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor
This Christmas, Nostell is transformed into a storybook adventure. From the 1940s railway station to snowy forests and Father Christmas’ woodland camp, the story comes to life as you wander through the house and grounds.
Follow the story room by room before finishing the house experience with the enchanting gingerbread village, reimagined with festive wonder. From here, at weekends, your journey will then take you through the garden to the glass house, where Father Christmas will make his appearance.
When? Monday 1st December 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026. The house will be closed from Wednesday 24th to Friday 26th December 2025.
Where? Nostell, Doncaster Road, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 1QE.
Find out more: experiencewakefield.co.uk
Catch a homecoming gig in a brand new venue
Credit: Andrew Benge
Wakefield’s own Skinny Living are the second headliner for WX Live, a series of 1000-capacity concerts taking place at WX Wakefield Exchange. Presented by Wakefield Council, the programme aims to bring world-class live music experiences to the city. Get ready for soulful indie and hits like ‘Let Me In’.
When? Saturday 13th December 2025.
Where? WX Wakefield, Union Street, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 3AD.
Find out more: experiencewakefield.co.uk
Sup bottomless beer
Credit: Craft Brew Festival
A bottomless beer festival? That’s right – Wakefield’s Craft Brew Festival is five hours of full-throttle mayhem, with five hours of free-flow craft beer, cider, wine, prosecco and more. You’ll get to try out more than 50 types of beer from over 15 breweries, alongside live music, festive fun and a few surprises along the way. It’s bound to sell out, so bag your tickets quick.
When? Saturday 13th December 2025.
Where? Tileyard North, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 5FY.
Find out more: experiencewakefield.co.uk
Stomp your feet at a céilí
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of high-energy music, joyful movement and festive cheer at WX. Live band The Hooliemen will be leading proceedings, with a skilled céilí caller guiding the crowd through every step. It’s a fantastic way to experience this Celtic tradition, which sees fast-paced tunes and flying feet take centre stage.
When? Saturday 20th December 2025.
Where? WX Wakefield, Union Street, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 3AD.
Find out more: experiencewakefield.co.uk
Party like it’s 1990
Credit: Tileyard
Pioneers of classic house, Retro are bringing their end-of-year knees-up to Tileyard North once again for a huge party this December. Expect a huge lineup of DJs and special guests, with Graeme Park and K Klass amongst the first names revealed. Whether you’ve been raving since the 90s or you’re new to the scene, it’s one not to be missed.
When? Saturday 27th December 2025.
Where? Tileyard North, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 5FY.
Find out more: experiencewakefield.co.uk
