Early May bank holiday is just around the corner – how will you spend your big weekend in Leeds?
As ever, there’s a little something for everyone around Leeds this May bank holiday, from live music and festivals to fun-filled days out for all the family. To make it that little bit easier for you to narrow down the options, we’ve rounded up the best events happening across Leeds, all in one place – check it out before you decide what to do with your long weekend.
Friday 1st May 2026
Nia Archives. Jungle pioneer Nia Archives heads to Howard Assembly Room with a bold new live show that marks a shift in her sound. Known for her DIY ethos and genre-blending style, she’s one of the most exciting names in UK dance music right now – and this promises to be one of her most personal performances yet.
Leeds Rhinos v Wakefield Trinity. It’s derby day at Headingley as Leeds Rhinos take on Wakefield Trinity in a fierce West Yorkshire clash. Expect big tackles, fast-paced action and a buzzing atmosphere as two rivals go head-to-head. With both sides flying high, this one should be a belter.
Rave Revival. Cage takes over HiFi Club for an underground rave revival in association with Parklife Festival. Showcasing emerging talent from Leeds and Manchester, the night puts the focus firmly on the dance in dance music. Expect high-energy sets and feel-good vibes throughout.
Tom Davis: Spudgun. Tom Davis brings his latest stand-up tour to Leeds, packed with sharp observations, big laughs and his signature storytelling style. Known for Murder in Successville and King Gary, his comedy is brilliantly relatable from start to finish.
Saturday 2nd May 2026
Mint Festival. One of Leeds’ biggest electronic music events returns for a full day of house, techno and everything in between. This year’s line-up is stacked, with the likes of Shanti Celeste, Ewan McVicar and Bella Claxton behind the decks. Pro tip – wear comfy shoes.
Trevor Nelson’s Soul Nation. BBC legend Trevor Nelson brings Soul Nation to Leeds for a night of R&B, soul and feel-good classics. Expect smooth grooves, nostalgic throwbacks and a celebration of the very best sounds from past and present.
The Great Leeds Print Fair. Browse work from independent artists and illustrators at The Great Leeds Print Fair, where you’ll find everything from bold graphic prints to delicate designs. Perfect for picking up something unique or soaking up some creative inspiration.
Russell Howard: Don’t Tell the Algorithm. Russell Howard heads to Leeds with his latest stand-up tour, taking on everything from modern life to the madness of the internet age. Known for his high-energy delivery and quick-fire wit, he’s one of the UK’s most loved comedians, and this time around there’s no phones, no distractions, just humans and jokes.
Sunday 3rd May 2026
Credit: Jack Spicer Adams
Clubland Live. Looking for hands-in-the-air moments this bank holiday weekend? Head to first direct bank arena for Clubland Live’s biggest lineup to date. It’s a testament to the brilliance of nineties and noughties dance music, with Ultrabeat, Kelly Llorenna, Darren Styles and Flip N Fill all gracing the stage.
Comedy Splash. Get ready to laugh your way through bank holiday Sunday in Leeds at The Glee Club. This week’s Comedy Splash features a mix of established names and rising stars including Richard Blackwood and Sarah Levine, promising a lively atmosphere and plenty of unpredictable moments.
JazzLeeds: Nils Kavanagh Trio. Settle in for an evening of live jazz this bank holiday Sunday as the Irish and Danish pianist and composer Nils Kavanagh Trio takes to the stage at Seven Arts. Expect strong melodies, explosive rhythms and a stripped back, intimate setting that lets the music shine.
Brighton Beach. Legendary club night Brighton Beach returns to the city where it all began for a massive one-off event at Project House on bank holiday Sunday. If you’re a fan of britpop, 60s soul, motown or northern soul – or simply just partying like it’s the nineties – you won’t want to miss this one.
Monday 4th May 2026
L.Y.R. Experimental trio L.Y.R. bring their genre-blending sound to Brudenell Social Club for a unique live performance. Combining spoken word, cinematic instrumentation and electronic elements, their shows are as immersive as they are powerful. With Poet Laureate Simon Armitage on vocals, expect something a little different from your usual gig.
Historic Hedgehogs Trail. Perfect for families, the Historic Hedgehogs Trail invites you to explore Leeds City Museum while spotting hedgehogs from different periods of history. You’ll also learn tips on how to help look after any hedgehogs that visit your garden!
The Girl Power Tour. RuPaul’s Drag Race stars Kylie Sonique Love and Kerri Colby bring their glitter-fuelled drag show and dance party to Viaduct for a night of pure pop escapism. If you’re looking to end your bank holiday weekend in Leeds with a bang, this is the place to do it.
Monday Night Comedy. Headrow House hosts a laidback night of comedy featuring a rotating line-up of stand-up acts, all seen on BBC. Expect a mix of seasoned performers and new talent testing out fresh material, all in an intimate setting. A perfect low-key way to round off the long weekend.
Cover image credit: Tom Pearson Photography
