What’s on in Leeds June 2023

With summer on the horizon, you might be wondering what you, your friends and family can get up to in the coming months. Longer, brighter days can only mean one thing: more fun activities to enjoy in the amazing city that is Leeds.

We’ve got an exciting line-up for you this June, with everything from Elton John’s final music tour to live music, food and crafting festivals. Whatever your interests, and whatever the weather, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy. Best of all, several of the events we’ve picked out are completely free to attend! Let’s take a look.

3rd June: Leeds Wool Festival

If you’re a lover of knitting or crochet, or simply interested in taking up a new crafting hobby, pop along to Leeds Industrial Museum this June to enjoy the Leeds Wool Festival.

The day will involve a variety of craft markets, talks and demonstrations from craft experts, as well as a tea room to enjoy some warm drinks and tasty treats. The festival is also a great opportunity to explore the stunning Armley Mills, a Grade II listed building packed with history and personality. Here you can check out their latest exhibitions which include textile machinery, the mill’s tailoring gallery and a range of printing presses. 

6th June: Elton Farewell Tour

‘Farewell Yellow Brick Road’, Elton John’s final tour, will be passing through Leeds on Tuesday 6th June. This extraordinary musical and visual spectacle promises to be ‘very emotional and lots of fun’. So if you’re a fan of the iconic British musician, get your tickets asap – we’re sure it’s going to be a popular one! 

Elton’s First Direct Arena performance will be just one of over 300 shows he’s performing in the space of three years. With more than half a million fans already singing the tour’s praises, it’s certainly not an event to be missed. What better way to celebrate Elton’s amazing 50-year music career than through this final tour?

17th June: Roundhay World Music & World Food Festival

This exciting festival brings together Leeds’s different nationalities and communities in a celebration of great food and music. And, best of all, it’s free for everyone to enjoy. 

Presented by Capital FM’s JoJo Kelly at Soldiers Field in Roundhay, the day promises to be an extravaganza of live music and culinary experiences. Sample a variety of delicious foods from around the world, and enjoy some fantastic music – from Salsa and Cuban to performances from St Gemma’s Hospice’s charity choir and traditional Ukrainian singing. The event will be running from 1:30 to 9pm.

24 – 25 June 2023: Kirkstall Abbey Markets

From March to November this year, Kirkstall Abbey will be home to various Yorkshire markets on the last weekend of the month. Selling everything from arts, crafts and homeware to delicious local produce, the markets are a fantastic way to support local businesses. 

Set in the gorgeous grounds of Kirkstall Abbey ruins, one of England’s best preserved Cistercian monasteries, there’s plenty to explore during the rest of the day. Take your pick of local woodland walks, stop by the Gatehouse cafe for a bite to eat or follow the Abbey’s QR code audio tour to learn more about the building’s history. 

Chow Down – various dates

10th June: Drag Brunch

Enjoy some delicious food whilst watching some stunning drag performances at Chow Down. The theme for June’s show is ‘Tropic Like it’s Hot’, and if their previous shows are anything to go by, this one’s sure to be a winner. 

16th June: Bingo Lingo

If you’re not quite sure what ‘Bingo Lingo’ entails, here’s the lowdown: it’s bingo with a fun twist of interactive, prize-winning and daring entertainment. Bingo Lingo have been bringing their show to the UK for more than 7 years now, and their outdoor summer tour promises to be just as exciting. 

17th June: Japanese painting workshop

Try your hand at the art of Japanese painting, using traditional materials like bamboo brushes, gold leaves and sumi ink. Led by a local artist, you’ll be learning to paint Japanese summer scenes in the beautiful surroundings of Chow Down. All equipment and materials will be provided – you just need to buy a ticket.

Creative Workshops – Various dates and locations

8th & 7th June: Free Creative Dance Sessions

Ever thought about taking up dance, but felt unsure where to start? Yorkshire Dance are holding two free dance sessions that could be the perfect introduction. Each session will include set sequences and games which will lead up to a short piece of dance. Open to people of all abilities and experiences. 

10th June: Crafty Saturdays

Come along to the M&S Archive in Leeds for some crafting fun for the whole family. Held on the second Saturday of each month, Crafty Saturdays are a great opportunity to explore the archive and to try out a crafting activity for free. Light refreshments will be available for all, and you’ll have your own hand-made souvenir to take away at the end of the session. 

22nd June: Image Editing Workshop

As part of Leeds Year of Culture 2023, the Hamara Centre in Leeds is hosting a beginner editing workshop, using the platform GoDaddy Studio. Artist and digital marketer Lydia Cottrell will be leading the workshop. All you need is your own laptop, an interest in image editing, and an eagerness to learn a new skill. Tickets are free for all. 

Theatre – various dates and locations

6th – 10th June: Dirty Dancing 

The hit musical is returning to Leeds Grand Theatre this June, following its success at London’s Dominion Theatre. Enjoy Dirty Dancing’s iconic music, amazing performances and classic love story from the comfort of Leeds’ oldest working theatre. It’s certain to be a night to remember. 

12th – 17th June: The Bodyguard

Starring Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton and soap actor Ayden Callaghan, this award-winning musical follows an ex secret service agent as he takes on the role of bodyguard to a celebrity star. The two unexpectedly fall in love, and what ensues is a mesmerising romantic thriller.