A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Kirkstall Abbey, Leeds – 2-3 July

Shakespeare in the park has become an annual summer favourite for those looking for a bit of culture whilst enjoying a picnic and a drink. The open air theatre experience makes the stunning Kirkstall Abbey even more magical, where on the first Saturday and Sunday afternoons of July you can witness the great bard’s comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream set to a 1980s theme. A uniquely entertaining way to spend a weekend.

Great Yorkshire Show
Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate – 12-15 July

Since the 19th century, Yorkshire has been celebrating all that’s great about the county with a major show. The 163rd edition of this agricultural event is hosted at its regular Harrogate home from Tuesday 12th to Friday 15th July. Grab a ticket for a wonderful wander round the fields of the finest animals, farming celebrities, interesting talks and intriguing demonstrations; top it all off with some local food and a pint of Yorkshire ale.

Pride
Freedom Quarter, Leeds – 7 August

After two years away due to the pandemic, Leeds Pride returns on 7th August this year for a party that promises to be even more spectacular than before. The LGBT+ celebration will be marching out together at this inclusive parade which proudly shows Leeds’ diversity through the city. Join in the positive messages and the vibrant parties that will no doubt break out on Lower Briggate’s Freedom Quarter.

West Indian Carnival
Potternweton Park, leeds – 29 August

There is much anticipation for the return of Leeds Carnival after it was forced to go virtual last year. Organisers have announced it is ‘alive for 55’, as communities come together for a joyous parade celebrating culture and emancipation of the enslaved. Thousands line the streets to witness the parade dance colourfully to and from Chapeltown, and enjoy the festivities throughout the day and night.

Sounds of the City
Millennium square, Leeds – 8th July – 6th August

Hosted at Millennium Square, Leeds is hosting a showstopper of a month of incredible live music. With something for all genre lovers of music, Sounds of the City will see bands HAIM, Foals, Tears for Fears, Jungle and a 60-piece symphony Opera. As well, the event will be closed by a Popworld festival which is promising a day of popular pop music from no other than Whigfield, Peter Andre and more.

Leeds International Beer Festival
Kirkstall Abbey, Leeds 8th-11th September

The annual four-day festival is returning to the city for a long weekend of beer, street food and live music.  Hosted at Kirkstall Abbey, whilst its usual home at the Town Hall is being refurbished. There will be over 100 beers making the line-up, including independent breweries, both local and UK wide. Don’t fear if beers are not to your liking, the event will also see a host of cider flavours to try, with brewers on hand to guide you through recommendations of the top beverages to try. The Sunday will see a family day with many activities being held for young people to give the adults time to enjoy a drink or street food.

BBC Radio 2 Live
17th- 18th September

One of the biggest festivals set to hit the city this year is BBC Radio 2 Live, Temple Newsam is becoming home to an iconic line up of talent. With performances from George Ezra, Melanie C, Nile Rodgers and Chic, Simple Minds, Bananarama and much more. It’s well worth a visit to experience the festival for its year in Yorkshire, being away from the usual London residence. There are still plenty of tickets available which can be found via Ticketmaster.

Photos: Carnival, Kirkstall Abbey, Pride, Beer festival