Looking for what’s on in Leeds this November? These are the events worth planning your month around.
Whether you’re booking ahead for a big night out or just looking for something different to do, there’s plenty happening across the city this November. From firework displays and film festivals to arena tours, supper clubs and the return of the Christmas markets, we’ve handpicked the best events so you don’t have to scroll endlessly in search of the good stuff.
If you’re building out your plans, it’s also worth checking out our guides to pubs in Leeds and November restaurant offers for even more ideas.
At a glance: November’s top picks
November Events in Leeds
Bonfire events in Leeds. While there aren’t any council-organised bonfire events, there are still plenty of bonfires and firework displays to enjoy across the city and suburbs. We’ve rounded up the best of the lot, so you can grab last-minute tickets, wrap up warm and head out for seasonal treats and spectacular displays.
Leeds Christmas Markets. It’s that time of year – Leeds Christmas Markets are back for another festive season. Around 60 to 70 cabins will be popping up across the city, selling artisan gifts and tasty treats. Keep an eye out for the delicious fruit crumble pots, a pop-up from The Cut & Craft and THOR’S Highland Lodge, where Little Bao Boy will be heading up food. Leeds Christmas Markets take place from Thursday 19th November to Wednesday 23rd December 2026 in City Square and beyond.
Ice Cube. There’s more festive fun to be had over at Ice Cube, which is back at Millennium Square. Take a spin on the outdoor ice rink, brave the Starflyer or soak up the views on the Wheel of Light. After you’re done exploring, cosy up in the bar with a mulled wine and a Yorkshire pudding wrap. Ice Cube takes place from Thursday 19th November to Thursday 31st December 2026 in Millennium Square.
Credit: Compass Festival
Compass Festival. Everyday spaces transform into places to stop, explore and get involved as Compass Festival returns to Leeds. This year’s programme includes Moi Tran’s ‘The Text is Restless’, a changing text sculpture at Leeds Art Gallery, alongside performances, workshops and interactive encounters across the city. It’s a chance to try something a little different, with art that invites you to do more than simply look. Compass Festival takes place from Wednesday 4th to Monday 30th November 2026 in venues across Leeds.
Leeds International Film Festival. Leeds International Film Festival returns for its 40th edition, with 18 days of cinema across Leeds and West Yorkshire. There are more than 250 screenings to choose from, ranging from exciting UK premieres to award-winning films. It’s a great chance to get out of your comfort zone and discover something new. The festival takes place from Thursday 29th October to Sunday 15th November 2026 in venues across Leeds and West Yorkshire.
All Out American Car Meet. Get your fix of muscle cars, classic cruisers and custom builds as The Motorist celebrates all things American. From vintage Cadillacs to modern Mustangs, there’ll be plenty to admire whether you’re a lifelong petrolhead or just fancy a browse. Grab a coffee, explore the lineup and make time for a bite in the Drivers Lounge. Catch it on Saturday 21st November 2026 at The Motorist in Sherburn in Elmet.
Fontaines D.C. Fresh from the release of their fifth album, ‘Dopamine Chamber’, Irish post-punk favourites Fontaines D.C. are bringing their UK tour to Leeds this November. With a catalogue that includes ‘Starburster’, ‘Favourite’ and ‘I Love You’, there’s plenty for fans to get excited about. Support comes from Belfast band Chalk. See them on Tuesday 24th November 2026 at first direct bank arena.
Courteeners & The Lathums. Fancy a night of indie anthems? Courteeners are heading to first direct bank arena for a headline show, with fellow North West favourites The Lathums joining them as special guests. Get down early to catch opening act The Guestlist before Liam Fray and co take the stage. Catch it on Friday 6th November 2026 at first direct bank arena.
World Pianist Weekender. Leeds City Museum is celebrating World Pianist Day with a weekend of music and hands-on activities. Make your own thumb piano, catch pop-up performances or take a turn at the piano open mic. There are family singing sessions and a community choir workshop too, so you don’t need to know your scales to join in. The Pianist Weekender takes place on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th November 2026 at Leeds City Museum.
Diwali Supper Club. Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a multi-course feast at Dastaan in Adel on Thursday 5th November 2026. The restaurant’s Diwali supper club pairs Indian cooking with a candlelit setting, a mehendi artist and firecrackers, making this more than your usual meal out. Gather your fellow food lovers and book ahead – places are limited.
National Brick Events. Whether you’re hunting down a long-retired set or looking for inspiration for your next build, National Brick Events is bringing a day of LEGO to The Edge. Browse more than 20 traders selling sets and minifigures, then take a closer look at original creations by talented builders. You might even find that elusive piece missing from your collection. Catch it on Sunday 22nd November 2026 at The Edge, University of Leeds.
Big Vegan Market. Head to Left Bank for a market celebrating plant-based food and independent makers. Browse vegan street food, artisan goods, sustainable homewares, cruelty-free skincare and clothing, with plenty to explore whether you’re vegan or simply curious about plant-based living. It’s a good opportunity to discover local and independent businesses while picking up something to eat. Join in on Sunday 1st November 2026 at Left Bank Leeds.
Further afield
Fancy a day out beyond Leeds? From festive trails to ice skating, there’s plenty happening across Yorkshire this November, too.
Credit: Estate Escapes
Bolton Abbey festive events. Bolton Abbey is one of the most beautiful destinations in North Yorkshire, and there’s even more to discover once the seasons shift. Celebrate Bonfire Night in style, take part in Run Bolton Abbey on Sunday 8th November or indulge in The Devonshire Arms’ festive menu, which launches on Friday 20th November 2026.
Ice skating in Yorkshire. Ice skating season is back! November sees outdoor rinks open up across the region, including rinks in Leeds, York and Stockeld Park. Whether you’re after a family skate or a festive date night, it’s always one of the highlights of the Christmas season.
A Dickens of a Christmas at Castle Howard. Visit Castle Howard this festive season to embark on a Victorian adventure, as literary legends leap off the page. Explore the stately home, meet familiar faces from Dickens’ most treasured novels and see the house in a whole new light. A Dickens of a Christmas takes place from Thursday 12th November 2026 to Sunday 3rd January 2027.
© Copyright Darren Casey
Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park. Step into the magic of Christmas at Stockeld Park with dazzling winter illuminations, an enchanting Santa’s Grotto, a live theatre show and festive ice skating. Make a day of it with a visit to the Playhive, the park’s huge indoor play area, and pick up a Christmas tree before you leave. The Christmas Adventure takes place from Saturday 21st November to Thursday 24th December 2026. Winter illuminations and ice skating continue until Sunday 3rd January 2027.
Santa Express at NYMR. Step on board a heritage steam train for a magical Christmas journey this festive season. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is getting a seasonal makeover, transforming into the Santa Express. You’ll set off on an hour-long round trip between Pickering and Levisham, with Santa and his elves delivering presents to younger passengers along the way. The Santa Express departs from Pickering Station on selected dates from Saturday 28th November to Thursday 24th December 2026.
