Looking for what’s on in Leeds this September? 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 September. From the Super League season finale and the return of DogFest to beer festivals, ballet and comedy, 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 the best pubs in Leeds, and September restaurant offers for even more ideas.
Credit: Vastint UK/Aire Park
Paws in the Park. There’s more four-legged fun to be had this September in Leeds as Paws in the Park takes over Aire Park. Designed to be a celebration of man’s best friend, there’ll be agility courses, competitions, market stalls and more. Your pooch can even try out the agility themselves – and get a photo on the podium!
Leeds Digital Festival. There’s a packed programme lined up for this year’s Leeds Digital Festival, with 200 events taking place across the city. Covering everything from AI and data to FinTech and cybersecurity, it’s the largest tech event of its kind in the UK. Whether you work in tech or just want to know what’s coming next, there’ll be plenty to get stuck into.
Ford Meet at The Motorist. From classic Escorts to modern Mustangs, Fords of every age are taking over The Motorist for a dedicated owners’ meet. You don’t need to arrive behind the wheel of one to join in – enthusiasts, families and dogs are all welcome to admire the cars, chat to their owners and tuck into food and artisan coffee.
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Leeds International Beer Festival. Back for its 14th year, Leeds International Beer Festival returns to Kirkstall Abbey from Thursday 3rd to Sunday 6th September 2026. Brewers from all over the country will be showcasing their best pours, alongside street food and live music. There are two dog-friendly sessions this year too – Thursday evening and Friday daytime.
Chapel Allerton Arts Festival. Regent Street comes alive for three days of live music, local food, arts and entertainment. The main stage has a packed lineup of local talent, with VICTORS, Brand New Bag and Happy Daggers amongst the acts performing. Stick around for Sunday, when jazz takes centre stage for the festival’s final day.
Three Short Ballets. Bite-sized ballet is back at Stanley & Audrey Burton Theatre this September, giving fans and newcomers alike the chance to see three short performances: Fools by Olivier Award winner Mthuthuzeli November; Five Tangos, one of Hans van Manen’s best-known works; and the world premiere of Intimate Pages by Tiler Peck.
Planetarium Go! Millennium Square is getting an out-of-this-world makeover this September as a pop-up planetarium opens its doors for three weeks of intergalactic fun. Step inside the dome for an immersive 360° journey through space, along with a programme of family-friendly films. Planetarium Go! runs from Friday 4th to Saturday 26th September 2026.
Evanescence. Expect big riffs and bigger vocals as GRAMMY Award-winning rock band Evanescence take to the stage at first direct bank arena. With a career spanning over two decades, the band continue to deliver unforgettable live performances, and this is a rare chance to see them in action. Get ready to sing along to hits including Bring Me to Life, Going Under and Call Me When You’re Sober.
400 Years of Leeds. Leeds is celebrating its 400th anniversary this year, and you can dig into four centuries of history at the University of Leeds’ Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery. From 17th century tokens to modern media, it’s a fascinating insight into the lives of people who have made the city the fantastic place it is today.
Credit: Tom Pearson
Leeds Rhinos v Hull FC. Will Leeds Rhinos pick up their first Super League title since 2017? They’ve been flying high all season, and their final regular-season match sees them take on Hull FC in front of a packed home crowd at Headingley Stadium. Expect big celebrations if they can get it over the line.
Really Funny Comedy: Angelos Epithemiou & Paul Tonkinson. Fancy a laugh? Head to Howard Assembly Room for a night hosted by Really Funny Comedy. Three comics will be taking to the stage – Angelos Epithemiou of Shooting Stars fame, double Time Out Comedy Award winner Paul Tonkinson and the hilarious Hayley Ellis. Hosted by Micky P Kerr, it’s sure to be a hoot.
Leeds Knights v Hull Seahawks. When one season ends, another begins. Leeds Knights are kicking off their 2026/27 campaign with a home fixture against Hull Seahawks. After becoming playoff champions last season, they’ll be hoping to kick things off with a win against their Yorkshire rivals.
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