What’s on in Leeds in October 2025

This October, Leeds is bursting with big ideas, bold performances and bright lights — and you’re invited. The highly anticipated Leeds International Festival of Ideas is back, while Light Night will once again transform the city after dark. And speaking of things that light up the night, we’ve rounded up the very best Halloween and half-term highlights, too. Time to fill up your diary before October gets scarily busy.

Festivals

Leeds International Festival of Ideas (LIFI) – Leeds Playhouse

Leeds International Festival of Ideas (LIFI) is back for its fifth edition from 14–18 October — and tickets are almost gone! As always, LIFI brings together over forty of the UK’s most influential voices for a lineup packed with thought-provoking discussions. 

This year, expect star power and big ideas from legendary Public Enemy frontman Chuck D, acclaimed writer Sally Wainwright, actress Tamsin Greig, comedian and author David Baddiel, and Line of Duty star Vicky McClure MBE. Get up close as they spark conversations on everything from culture and politics to identity and resilience — and grab the squishy mic to have your say.

Don’t miss your chance to grab one of the last remaining spots…

Light Night Leeds , the UK’s largest annual arts and light festival, returns to dazzle the city on Wednesday, 22 and Thursday, 23 October. While organisers are keeping the full programme under wraps, you can be sure the city centre will be transformed at dusk with stunning light projections, interactive artworks, and mesmerising performances from local, national and international artists. Keep your eye on the Light Night website for details, and prepare to be wowed between 6 and 10 pm each evening.

Don’t forget: The festival kicks off a little earlier than usual (avoiding a clash with a Leeds United vs West Ham fixture). 

Experience Transform Festival as Leeds comes alive with bold, socially conscious performances from 29 artists across 12 countries. From 21–25 October, head to venues including Leeds Playhouse to experience shows exploring identity, resilience, and social change, all on a “Pay What You Can” basis. 

Don’t miss Amrita Hepi’s Rinse, Tiran Willemse’s blackmilk, Basel Zaraa’s intimate Dear Laila, and The Pleasuredome Must Be Built x Transform Doomsday Disco finale at TESTBED hosted by Love Muscle. Join workshops, late-night gatherings, and meet the artists, putting you at the heart of Leeds’ international theatre and dance scene.

Markets and events

Leeds Steampunk Market – Leeds Industrial Museum

Step into a world of Victorian-inspired fantasy at the Leeds Steampunk Market, returning to the Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills on 4–5 October. Explore over 50 stalls featuring steampunk, vintage, gothic, fantasy, and handmade goods. Plus, enjoy a flying owl display on Saturday, live music and coffee jousting on Sunday, vintage films in the 1920s cinema, and a tearoom serving homemade cakes and hot food both days. Admission is included with museum entry, and your Saturday ticket grants free Sunday access.

Leeds Vintage Furniture and Flea Market – Weetwood Hall

Fancy a spot of bargain hunting? Head to Weetwood Hall on Sunday, 19 October, for the Leeds Vintage Furniture & Flea Market. Browse over 40 stalls offering a curated selection of vintage furniture, homeware, and fashion. Whether you’re hunting for a statement piece or unique accessories, this is your chance to uncover hidden gems. Admission is free…

Authors at the Armouries – Royal Armouries

Immerse yourself in the literary world at Authors at the Armouries, one of the North’s largest book fairs, held at the Royal Armouries Museum and New Dock Hall on 24–25 October. Meet over 200 authors and vendors, discover new books, and enjoy Q&A panels, readings, and party the night away at the exclusive Gothic Ball and Dinner. Whether you’re a reader or writer, this event is an immersive celebration of literature. Check out the full list of authors here. Tickets are available now…

Music

Charity Shop Disco – Left Bank

Throw some shapes at the inaugural Leeds edition of Charity Shop Disco on Friday, 3 October, from 7–11 PM at Left Bank Leeds. This all-vinyl, genre-spanning event features six Yorkshire-based DJs with a shared love of charity shop vinyl spinning 25-minute sets in a welcoming, ego-free atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-time DJ or a seasoned vinyl enthusiast, you’re invited to dance, connect, and enjoy a night of eclectic tunes. Admission is free, with donations welcome. Tickets are available now.

Marti Pellow  – First Direct Bank Arena

Celebrate three decades of Love Is All Around with Marti Pellow at Leeds’ First Direct Arena on Wednesday, 29 October. The former Wet Wet Wet frontman revisits his chart-topping hits, including Wishing I Was Lucky and Sweet Little Mystery, in a special seated performance. Doors open at 6:00 PM; show starts at 7:30 PM, and tickets range from £46.30 to £141.30, with £1 from every ticket sold supporting breast cancer charity Future Dreams. Ready for an unforgettable night of nostalgia? Hit the book button….

For newcomers, rather than big-name acts, try: 

• Edinburgh indie pop favourites Vistas at The Wardrobe on 4 October

• Dublin noise-punk band Gurriers at The Brudenell Social Club on 17 October

• Rising indie rockers Somebody’s Child at Leeds Beckett University on 24 October

Theatre & Performance

Baga Chips: Chip Off the Old Block – The Glee Club

Join RuPaul’s Drag Race UK finalist Baga Chipz for a night of live vocals, big band ballads, disco classics, and cheeky pub sing-alongs at The Glee Club Leeds on Wednesday, 8 October. This X-rated comedy extravaganza is very arsh, featuring filthy jokes, drag queen glamour, and stories from Baga’s 20-year career. Prepare to sashay into a night of filthy fun and fabulousness!

Kerry Ellis: Queen of the West End – City Varieties Music Hall

Experience the magic of musical theatre with Kerry Ellis at City Varieties Music Hall on Wednesday, 8 October. Known for her iconic roles in Wicked, Les Misérables, and We Will Rock You, Kerry brings her remarkable talent to Leeds, performing songs from the biggest musicals and sharing stories from her illustrious career. It’s an unmissable chance to experience an intimate evening with one of the West End’s brightest stars.

Smeds and the Smoos – Carriageworks Theatre

Calling all Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler fans! Have a blast at Carriageworks Theatre with The Smeds and The Smoos, an Olivier Award-nominated adaptation of the beloved book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. From 9–11 October, join Tall Stories Theatre Company for a joyful tale of star-crossed aliens, featuring catchy songs, vibrant puppetry, and interactive fun. Perfect for ages three and up, this 55-minute show offers relaxed performances and is ideal for families and school groups. Go intergalactic from just £14.

Fun Kids Science Weekly Live – Carriageworks Theatre

Join Fun Kids radio presenter Dan Simpson at Carriageworks Theatre on Saturday, 18 October, at 2:30 PM for an hour of science fun! Dan brings the weirdest and coolest stuff in science to the stage, making it more fun than it’s ever been in any classroom! 

With hilarious experiments, exciting guests, and a real-life meteorite, Dan takes your kids on a journey into how the world works – and beyond! Perfect for curious minds aged eight and up.

Sandy Toksvig: Friends of Dorothy – Leeds Playhouse

Join celebrated comedian, broadcaster, and author Sandi Toksvig at Leeds Playhouse on Tuesday, 28 October, for an evening of literary delight. In her show Friends of Dorothy, Sandi shares her passion for books, delving into her extraordinary collection of quirky titles such as The Beginner’s Guide to Sex in the Afterlife and Cheese Problems Solved. The evening includes fascinating stories, a lively Q&A session, and the much-loved “Cleverest Person in the Room” game. Could it be you? Get booked in to find out. 

Simon Yates: Pleasure and Pain – Carriageworks

Delve into the world of extreme adventure with mountaineer Simon Yates at Carriageworks Theatre on Tuesday, 28 October. Known for his harrowing tale in Touching the Void, Simon shares gripping stories from over 80 expeditions across the globe, including a near-fatal fall in Tajikistan and a perilous three-day glacier trek to safety. This 1-hour and 40-minute talk from one of the world’s most renowned mountaineers offers a raw and inspiring look at human endurance and survival. It’s edge-of-your-seat stuff.

John Bishop: 25 Years of Stand Up – First Direct Bank Arena

Celebrate a quarter-century of comedy with John Bishop at Leeds’ First Direct Bank Arena on Saturday, 11 October, and Sunday, 12 October. In this special anniversary show, John reflects on his 25-year journey from his first gig to becoming a household name. Expect a night of laugh-out-loud stories, sharp wit, and heartfelt moments. It’s a milestone event in Leeds’ comedy calendar.

Jenny Eclair: Jokes, Jokes, Jokes Live! – City Varieties Music Hall

Join comedian, novelist, and professional show-off Jenny Éclair at City Varieties Music Hall on Wednesday, 29 October, for an evening of autobiographical comedy. Jenny takes you through her journey from drama school to becoming the first woman to win the Perrier Award, and beyond. Expect punk poetry, animal impressions, and baritone nursery rhyme singing in this 1-hour 50-minute show—ages 14+ (parental guidance recommended). 

Fancy listening to some other exciting and emerging voices on the comedy circuit? Head over to The Venue in Crossgates on 25 October for a lineup that includes Ignacio Lopez, Markus Birdman and Alex Stringer.

Halloween

Shock Horror: A Ghost Story – City Varieties Music Hall

Something spine-tingling is coming to City Varieties Music Hall on Monday, 13 and Tuesday, 14 October, when Thunder Road presents Shock Horror: A Ghost Story. This chilling new play delves into the eerie and the unexplained, promising a night of suspense and supernatural thrills. Ready for a haunting theatrical experience? Us too. Spooky,

Spooky Halloween Quiz & Bingo and Halloween Rumble – Sela Bar & Pizzeria

Get ready for a wickedly fun Halloween double feature at Sela Bar! On Wednesday, 29 October at 7:30 PM, kick off the festivities with a night of spooky quiz questions and bingo thrills. Then, return on Thursday, 30 October at 7:30 PM for Sela’s Halloween Rumble, featuring live music from XRAY Cat Trio (AKA The Wolfcops), support acts, and DJs spinning frightfully good tunes into the night. Tickets £3 for the quiz and pay-as-you-feel with a £5 suggested donation for the rumble. 

Psycho Live in Concert – Leeds Grand Theatre

This Halloween, experience Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho like never before at Leeds Grand Theatre on Friday, 31 October. Watch the full film on the big screen while the Orchestra of Opera North performs Bernard Herrmann’s iconic score live, amplifying every suspenseful moment. Conductor George Morton leads this spine-chilling cinematic experience. Don’t dare to miss it – prices from £25.00.

October School Holidays 

Leeds Museums & Galleries Half-term

This half-term, Leeds Museums & Galleries are brimming with spooky fun for all ages. Here’s a snapshot of the best:

• Temple Newsam House – Halloween Hauntings, Junior Ghost Walk, and Pumpkin Carving (27–31 Oct). Meet ghostly residents, enjoy creepy crafts, and carve your own pumpkins.

• Abbey House Museum – Spooky Streets and Creepy Crafts (25 Oct). Family-friendly Halloween fun is included in your admission.

• Leeds City Museum – Super Spirographs & Spirograph Family Fun Day (25 Oct–1 Nov). Enjoy creative activities for all ages.

• Leeds Discovery Centre – Half Term Store Tours (27–31 Oct). Get a behind-the-scenes look at fascinating collections.

• Lotherton – Spooky Skeletons: Scarytales trail and Pumpkin Patch Trailer Tours (until 25 Oct).

Pumpkin Festival by Night – Swithens Farm

Adventure awaits at Swithens Farm, which will transform into a spooky wonderland after dark! On the evenings of Friday, 24 October to Sunday, 26 October, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, take your little ones on a moonlit tractor ride to the glowing pumpkin patch, where you can pick your perfect pumpkin and carve your own lantern. 

Venture into the mysterious woods, keeping an eye out for the mischievous witch, and enjoy the vintage funfair (extra charges apply). Warm up with a treat at the Snack Baa. Tickets are £4.50 per person, with limited availability – book now, before they disappear.

Halloween SFX Workshop – Hyde Park Picture House

This October half-term, Hyde Park Picture House invites young horror enthusiasts aged 8–11 to a hands-on workshop exploring the art of spooky special effects. On Monday, 27 and Tuesday, 28 October, they’ll discover how filmmakers create gory and gooey effects—from fake blood to slime. This workshop is designed for independent participation, with 20 spots available per session. Tickets are just £6 per child. Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment!

On Sunday, 26 October, HPPH will screen Casper at 11 am (autism-friendly) and 11:30 am, followed by a toddler-friendly showing of Hotel Transylvania at 11 am on Friday, 31 October.