From the renewal of an old rugby rivalry to an interactive game taking place across the city centre, discover what’s happening in Leeds this weekend.
Whether you’re tucking into some of the city’s best street food, seeing The Streets perform a classic album beneath the walls of Kirkstall Abbey, testing your knowledge in a city-wide game of Trivial Pursuit or cheering on Leeds Rhinos, there’s plenty happening across the city this weekend. To save you the searching, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Leeds from Friday 24th to Sunday 26th July 2026.
Friday 24th July
Credit: Hanglands
The Streets at Kirkstall Abbey. One of the UK’s most influential acts returns to Leeds for a special show at Kirkstall Abbey. Mike Skinner and The Streets will perform A Grand Don’t Come for Free in full for the first time ever, bringing classics like Fit But You Know It, Blinded By The Lights and Dry Your Eyes to one of the city’s most spectacular outdoor venues.
Peter Kay at first direct arena. Comedy legend Peter Kay returns to Leeds for a one-off charity performance, with all profits donated to cancer charities. Following his record-breaking run of arena shows, this special night promises plenty of laughs while supporting an important cause.
Leeds Street Feast at Millennium Square. Millennium Square is transformed into a foodie paradise for three days as Leeds Street Feast returns with some of the city’s favourite independent traders. There’s going to be everything from bao buns and birria tacos to Brazilian dishes, barbecue, pizza and bubble waffles, alongside live music, DJs and plenty of summer drinks.
Change and Challenge: Leeds in the 1900s – West Yorkshire Archive Service. Discover how Leeds evolved throughout the 20th century at this fascinating Leeds 400 event. Explore the city’s transformation through war, industry, transport, housing and social change, and uncover the stories that helped shape modern Leeds.
Saturday 25th July
Credit: Trivial Pursuit Leeds
Trivial Pursuit Leeds. To celebrate Leeds’ 400th anniversary, the city centre is becoming a giant interactive version of the iconic quiz game. Players will travel between six themed locations, answer questions about Leeds’ history, people and culture, collect wedges and put their knowledge to the test in this free city-wide experience.
Rise & Howl: The Shroud Maker at Seven Arts. This powerful one-woman play tells the remarkable story of an 84-year-old Palestinian woman whose humour and resilience carry her through decades of conflict. Performed in the intimate surroundings of Seven Arts, it’s an emotional evening of thought-provoking theatre.
Blast Off to Space! at Clothworkers Centenary Concert Hall. Young explorers can embark on an interactive musical adventure through the solar system at this family-friendly concert. Combining classical music, storytelling and audience participation, it’s ideal for children under eight.
Global Shuffle Day at Electric Shuffle. Celebrate the world’s first Global Shuffle Day with brand-new games, prize giveaways and 2-for-1 margaritas at Electric Shuffle. Whether you’re a shuffleboard pro or trying it for the first time, there’s plenty of fun on offer throughout the day.
Sunday 26th July
Credit: Tom Pearson
Leeds Rhinos v Bradford Bulls at Headingley Stadium. One of rugby league’s fiercest rivalries returns as Leeds Rhinos face Bradford Bulls at Headingley for the first Super League meeting between the two sides in almost 12 years. Stay after the final whistle for the Party on the Pitch with a live DJ set from Pat Sharp.
Literary Escape Festival at Left Bank Leeds. Book lovers can browse independent publishers, meet authors, collect signed books and shop from local makers at this relaxed literary festival celebrating reading, writing and creativity.
Hot 8 Brass Band at The Wardrobe. Grammy-winning New Orleans collective Hot 8 Brass Band bring their infectious blend of jazz, funk, hip hop and brass to Leeds. Expect an energetic live show from one of the world’s most exciting live bands.
Hot Ghoul Summer at The Key Club. Alternative fashion, spooky gifts, independent makers and gothic-inspired shopping come together at this free Leeds Indie Market event. Browse two floors of quirky stalls and discover everything from handmade art to unique accessories in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Prices and timings were verified as correct at the time of publishing in July 2026. However, event details, particularly for outdoor festivals and touring shows, can change. We recommend checking with the individual venue before making a special journey. Cover image credit: Tom Pearson
