Fun in the sun: the very best of Leeds (and beyond) this June

Summer has landed, and it’s time to get amongst it. With everything from music festivals and comedy gigs to foodie treats and theatre trips on the cards this month in Leeds, there really is something to put a smile on everyone’s face. And if you’re getting your jubilee on with the best of them – rest assured and read on, we’ve got a whole section for that too.

Slam Dunk Festival | 3rd June @ Temple Newsam

This year’s iconic Slam Dunk festival will see music heavyweights Alexisonfire, The Used, Sum 41 and The Dropkick Murphys (to name just a few) take the stage at Temple Newsam. Expect a day full of mosh pits, pop-punk anthems and plenty of chances to party.

Made in Leeds Festival | 4th June @ Church Fenton Airfield

Another one for the bank holiday to-do list is Made in Leeds Festival, which brings a line-up of world-renowned headliners to RAF Church Fenton Airfield – 16 miles east of the city centre and well worth the trip. Craig David will present his iconic TS5 party, with other performers including Holy Good, Nathan Dawe, MK, Low Steppa and more. 

Gin and Rum Festival | 10­–11th June @ The Royal Armouries

A whole host of gin and rum distillers is set to descend on the Armouries this month, as the Leeds Gin and Rum kicks off for a weekend of revelry in the heart of the city. Choose from over 120 tipples, enjoy live music and DJ sets, and learn more about your favourite drinks.

AJ Bell World Triathlon | 11–12th June @ Roundhay Park

Returning to Leeds for the sixth time this June, the AJ Bell 2022 World Triathlon Championship Series will welcome thousands of athletes of all abilities, as they take on the epic swimming, cycling and running challenge. The main action is free to watch, or you can buy a grandstand package for the best view in the house.

Rob Becket – Wallop! | 12th June @ Leeds Grand Theatre

Whether you know him from Live at the Apollo, 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Mock the Week or another of his regular primetime TV slots, there’s no denying Rob Beckett’s magnetic comedic talent. Catch one of his two shows at the Grand and prepare to get that belly laugh on.

Parquet Courts | 13th June @ Leeds Uni Stylus

Hailing from Brooklyn and bringing with them a unique brand of lively, story-fuelled rock, Parquet Courts are set to take over Stylus for one night this June. With a fresh electronic sound emanating from their latest album, Sympathy for Life, it’s set to be a belter.

These Hills are Ours | 15–16th June @ Leeds Playhouse

A co-commissioned show from Leeds Playhouse, Beaford Arts, Eden Project, Lancaster Arts and Shoreditch Town Hall, These Hills Are Ours promises a performance of stories and songs about escaping the city, and what it means to be free.

Sharon Van Etten | 19th June @ the O2 Academy

Bringing her ‘Darkness Fades Tour’ to Leeds and promoting her new track, Porta, Sharon Van Etten is set to perform her uniquely rich sound to the O2 this month. She released her fifth full-length album Remind Me Tomorrow in 2019, and collaborated with Angel Olsen on the acclaimed 2021 single, Like I Used To.

Dreamgirls | 21st June­–9th July @ Leeds Grand Theatre

Prepare to be dazzled this June as the multi-award winning Dreamgirls rolls into Leeds Grand Theatre – promising spine-tingling vocals and some of the catchiest songs you’ll hear this year. Add a captivating story into the mix, and you’ve got something pretty unmissable.

An Evening of Burlesque | 24th June @ City Varieties Music Hall

A self-proclaimed extravaganza of glitz and glamour, the UK’s longest-running burlesque show is back on tour – bringing its signature blend of cabaret, comedy, music, circus and burlesque to the stage in Leeds this month.

Nile Rodgers and CHIC | 24–25th June @ the Piece Hall

It’s part of the Live at the Piece Hall series, and it’s set to light up this iconic venue with a world-renowned live show. Expect passion, charisma and musical prowess, as the legendary Nile unleashes his legacy onstage.

Let’s Rock Leeds | 25th June @ Temple Newsam

Heralding itself as ‘the retro festival’, Let’s Rock Leeds is set to bring a line-up of nostalgic names and general ‘80s madness to the Temple Newsam stage. With headline slots from Billy Ocean, Wet Wet Wet, Nick Heyward and more, this one’s going to be big.

And if you’re celebrating royally this June…

Temple Newsam Jubilee Picnic | 2nd June @ Temple Newsam

Pack up a picnic and head over the Temple Newsam for an epic jubilee celebration complete with activities, games, music and more. Tickets are just £5, and you’ll get access to the picnic, house and grounds for a whole day of fun.

Great British Food Festival | 2nd–5th June @ Harewood House

Head over to Harewood House for a special four-day jubilee celebration this bank holiday weekend. There’ll be an artisan market and a glorious range of street food, plus live music, chef demos, kids’ activities, foraging walks and so much more.

Leeds Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebrations | 2nd–5th June @ citywide

Leeds City Council has joined forces with hospitality venues across the city to bring a packed programme of celebrations alive this bank holiday. Expect street activities, outdoor seating, pop-up bars, barbecues, street performances, live music and more – everywhere from New and Lower Briggate to Call Lane, Merrion Street, Greek Street and Cookridge Street.

Let’s Paddle Queen’s Jubilee Bank Holiday | 3rd June @ Armley Mills  

Because nothing says jubilee like free canoeing and paddle-boarding taster sessions, you can head up to Armley on the first Friday in June to try your luck on the water. All equipment will be provided, just make sure to book a spot.

Meanwood Platinum Jubilee Celebration | 4th June @ Meanwood Community Centre

Join the fun over in Meanwood for the bank holiday weekend, where there’ll be stalls, entertainment, food, pampering and plenty for the kids too. The action begins at 12 noon.