17 January to 25 April
RORY’S SATURDAY CLUB
Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds
Come down to Leeds City Museum for our Rory’s Saturday Club craft sessions for families with children of all ages. Drop-in, no need to book. Until 25th April. Give what you can. 17 January to 25 April. museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

17 January to 28 February
DEMONSTRATIONS OF VICTORIAN HAIRWORK
Bankfield Museum, Akroyd Park, Halifax
The Victorian art of hairwork involved meticulously weaving together the hair of loved ones into flowers or wreaths. Free. 17 January to 28 February. museums.calderdale.gov.uk

13 February 2026 to 13 February 2027
Fountains Café: Serving Bradford for Fifty-Five Years
Bradford Industrial Museum, 235 Moorside Rd, Eccleshill, Bradford
Paul and Mary Georgiou opened Fountains Coffee House in 1968 at Bradford’s John Street Market (later called the Oastler Shopping Centre). Affectionately known as Fountains Café, it was run by three generations of the family and had a close-knit set of regulars. Bradfordians remember being taken there as children, with many returning with their own families later in life. The well-known and much-loved Fountains Café closed in 2023. After its closure, Bradford District Museums and Galleries acquired some of its iconic and recognisable objects which have been showcased in this display. It also includes illustrations by Clock Tower Studios and memories collected by History in Action and brought to life by Bent Architect Theatre Company. Free. 13 February 2026 to 13 February 2027. https://bradfordmuseums.org

15 February to 22 February
DARK SKIES FESTIVAL
Forest of Bowland, Various places, Forest of Bowland
The festival features exciting events such as a live moon watch, bat talk, star gazing, forest moon bathing, smartphone astrophotography, and crafts. Until 22nd Feb. Various times and prices. 15 February to 22 February. forestofbowland.com

24 February
A CREATIVE WORKSHOP: EXPLORE KIRKSTALL ABBEY
Kirkstall Abbey, Kirkstall, Leeds
Explore Kirkstall Abbey, your feelings and experience of it, using textures, nature and words to make an artist's book. With artist Lynette Willoughby and poet Clare Wigzell. £15. 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm. museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

24 February to 28 February
TIME AT BLACKBURN CATHEDRAL
Blackburn Cathedral, Cathedral Close, Blackburn
Time will transform the entire Cathedral into a fully immersive artwork where you will traverse a series of captivating installations that explore humanity’s evolving relationship with the concept of time. £10. 24 February to 28 February. blackburncathedral.com

7 March
Rebraiding History: Creative Writing Workshop
Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds
Drawing on Victorian artifacts in the museum's collection and the streets of Abbey Fold, we will tune into voices of characters who may have lived in Leeds in the 19th Century and find creative ways to weave their history with our present. £12.50. 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

7 March to 8 March
THE BIG SPRING STEAMPUNK WEEKEND
Heskin Hall, Wood Lane, Chorley
The Big Spring Steampunk Weekend is our annual spring foray into all things Steampunk. Your chance to join in with your spendiferous attire (or not ). Live entertainment. Alternative, goth & more welcome. Free. 7 March to 8 March. heskinhall.com

9 March
Spring Equinox Foraged Wreath Workshop
Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds
Join this workshop to make a beautiful foraged wreath to celebrate the spring equinox. Make a spring wreath from willow and foraged foliage with our tutor in the beautiful Gate House space at Abbey House Museum.   £15. 10:00 am to 12:30 pm. https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

9 March
Art Workshops | Delivered by Val Hughes
Happa, Shores Hey Farm, Briercliffe,, Burnley
Begin 2026 by reconnecting with creativity, calm and self-care through our Art & Wellbeing Workshop Series at HAPPA, led by Val Hughes – a highly respected local artist, experienced lecturer and published author. Designed especially for adults, these thoughtfully curated workshops offer a gentle escape from the pace of everyday life. Each session invites you to slow down, learn new creative techniques, and enjoy a welcoming, supportive environment where wellbeing is just as important as the finished artwork. £17. 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. https://www.happa.org.uk/

10 March to 11 March
1984
The Atkinson, Lord Street, Southport
‘To the future or to the past, to a time when thought is free: From the age of uniformity, from the age of Big Brother, from the age of doublethink… greetings!’ Award winning Box Tale Soup present a stunning new adaptation of Orwell’s dystopian classic. Known for their ingenious sets and slick storytelling, Box Tale Soup’s unique puppetry becomes a striking metaphor for Orwell’s chilling vision of power and control. The year is 1984, perhaps – it is impossible to tell for certain. We are being watched, Big Brother is everywhere, truth changes daily, and everyone conforms. But for Winston Smith, insignificant cog in the Party’s vast machine, this half-life is not enough. He dreams of freedom, but is he the only one? Dreams can be deadly when rebellion begins with a thought. Featuring the voices of Sophie Aldred & Joanna Lumley, with Simon Russell Beale as the voice of Big Brother. £20. 10 March to 11 March. https://theatkinson.co.uk/events/1984/

12 March
Street Tours: Women in Victorian Leeds
Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds
As part of Women’s History Month, come along and join us for a chance to take a guided tour of our Victorian Streets, with a focus on the female residents and visitors who may have been there. The tour will be led by a member of our knowledgeable museum staff who will share their insights on what life would have been like for women in Leeds during the Victorian period. Free. 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm. https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

13 March to 15 March
Photo North Festival
Carriageworks Theatre, The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds
Photo North Festival returns to Leeds from Friday 13th to Sunday 15th March 2026, taking over the Carriageworks Theatre for its seventh edition. This acclaimed photography festival brings together world-renowned artists, emerging talent and passionate enthusiasts for a weekend of exhibitions, talks, screenings and creative connection. With access to all exhibitions and events included in the ticket price, it offers an inspiring cultural experience in one of the UK’s most vibrant cities. £28. 13 March to 15 March. https://www.photonorthfestival.co.uk

14 March to 15 March
Mothers’ Day Special
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Station Road, Haworth
Step aboard and begin your experience with a glass of Prosecco or fresh orange juice, accompanied by a delightful selection of canapés. Sit back and relax as our steam train carries you on a scenic round trip through the beautiful Worth Valley. After your journey, enjoy a freshly prepared two-course lunch served in the characterful Old Parcels Office, the perfect setting to continue your celebration. £45. 14 March to 15 March. https://kwvr.co.uk

14 March to 15 March
Mother’s Day (MUMS GO FREE)
Thornton Hall Country Park, Thornton in Craven, Barnoldswick
As a thank you to all the wonderful Mums, Step Mums, Grandmas, and mother figures, they're delighted to welcome you to Thornton Hall Country Park for FREE*. Enjoy a fantastic family day out on the farm with plenty to see and do — and don’t forget to collect your FREE glass of prosecco or orange juice* during your visit. 14 March to 15 March. https://thorntonhallfarm.co.uk

14 March
Make a Felt Flower Bouquet
Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds
Make a felt flower bouquet for Mother's Day in this workshop. Join this workshop and make an assortment of felt flowers to create your own beautiful floral bouquet. The bouquet makes a perfect Mother's Day gift or use it to decorate your home all year round. Light refreshments (tea, coffee, biscuits) are included. £12.50. 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

15 March
Meet Frances Tempest at Bolling Hall
Bolling Hall Museum, Bowling Hall Rd, Bradford
English Civil War, 1642 – 1649. Bolling Hall was the temporary Royalist Headquarters after winning a great battle against the Parliamentarians under Oliver Cromwell, the Battle of Adwalton Moor (near Bradford) June 1643. Frances, as mistress of the house, would protect herself & her family by always having 2 Flintlock Pistols at the ready, “keeping her powder dry” under her apron. Free. 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. https://bradfordmuseums.org

19 March to 22 March
The Steam Gala
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Station Road, Haworth
Across four action-packed days, enjoy the sight, sound and spectacle of our visiting guest locomotives alongside the home fleet. An intensive passenger timetable will operate throughout the event, offering plenty of opportunities to travel behind a variety of steam traction. The weekend programme also features a traditional goods train demonstration and special double-headed services, making this a must-see event for steam enthusiasts and families alike. 19 March to 22 March. https://kwvr.co.uk

19 March
Spring Equinox Felt Wreath Workshop
Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds
Learn to make simple felt flowers in this workshops and craft them into a beautiful spring wreath to decorate your home. No experience necessary, materials provided. Includes refreshments. £12.50. 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

28 March to 29 March
Silsden Beer Festival 2026
Silsden Town Hall, Main Street, Silsden
A day filled with delicious brews and good vibes. Get ready to sample a variety of craft beers from local breweries and beyond. Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or just looking to have a good time, this event is perfect for everyone. £12.50. 28 March to 29 March.

29 March
Own A Pony Day
Happa, Shores Hey Farm, Briercliffe,, Burnley
At HAPPA Own a Pony Day, children get the opportunity to own a HAPPA pony for the day, gaining valuable knowledge and an insight into what it is like to care for a pony, via hands on practical learning. There is even an opportunity for each child to have a ride on our School Master pony! £45. 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. https://www.happa.org.uk

1 April
Meditation Walks
Kirkstall Abbey, Kirkstall, Leeds
A chance to get some fresh air and fresh thoughts and a taster of Raja Yoga meditation – and to reflect in beautiful surroundings on the beautiful qualities we all have inside us. Organised by Brahma Kumaris in association with Kirkstall Abbey, the walks are included in entry to the Abbey and open to all. Kirkstall Abbey is a Give What You Can museum, suggested donation amount to enter is £5. £5. 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/

1 April to 5 April
YORK CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL
Parliament Street, York
A selection of chocolatiers, bakers, confectioners, and everything in between! Even some traditionally savoury products with a sweet twist will be showcased at the festival market, from independent traders. 1 April to 5 April. yorkfoodfestival.com

4 April
CARD FEST 2026
UCLAN Student Union, Flyde Rd, Preston
Trading card show featuring Pokemon, Magic the Gathering, Lorcana and One Piece vendors. Kids Zone, music, food and great cards! £10. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. https://cardfest.uk

6 April
WORLD COAL CARRYING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Gawthorpe Maypole , Wakefield
The village of Gawthorpe plays host to the World Coal Carrying Championships on Easter Monday every year, in which runners carry coal sacks over a distance of 1.1km. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. gawthorpemaypole.org

6 April
PRESTON ANNUAL EGG ROLLING
Avenham and Miller Parks , Preston
There will be market stalls to browse, artists and performances, plus fun interactive workshops, not to mention the annual Easter bonnet competition.The egg rolling itself will take place, and Plucky the chicken will be ready to wish everyone a Happy Easter. Free. 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. visitpreston.com

6 April
Hebden Bridge Duck Race
Hebden Bridge
Annual duck race to raise money for The Rotary Club of Hebden Bridge. Free. 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. https://www.hebdenbridgeduckrace.uk

11 April
SCARBOROUGH FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL
Scarborough Open Air Theatre, Burniston Road, Scarborough
Take a culinary trip around the globe with mouth-watering cuisine, including bao buns, Greek and Turkish baklava, wood-fired pizza, jerk chicken and much more! Free. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. scarboroughopenairtheatre.com

12 April
SCARBOROUGH COBLE MARKET
St Helen’s Square , Scarborough
The Coble Market is all about celebrating Scarborough and showcasing creative talent, including local artisans, upcyclers, musicians and performers. Free. 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. coblemarket.co.uk

13 April to 20 April
DARK SKIES FESTIVAL
Forest of Bowland, Various places, Forest of Bowland
The festival features exciting events such as a live moon watch, bat talk, star gazing, forest moon bathing, smartphone astrophotography, and crafts. 13 April to 20 April. forestofbowland.com

13 April
FARMER COPLEYS TULIP FESTIVAL
Ravensknowle Farm, Pontefract Road, Pontefract
There will be loads of fantastic and impressive photo opportunities, an observation wheel, Dutch-style food and a bar to sit and enjoy the view with a drink or two. £8. 10:00 am to 3:30 pm. farmercopleys.co.uk

30 April
RIOT AND REBELLION! THE POWER LOOM RIOTS
Gawthorpe Hall, Burnley Road, Padiham
In April 1826, a group of 1,000 angry handloom weavers began attacking the looms and mills of East Lancashire.  Find out more about the Power Loom Riots in this talk marking the bicentennial year. £8. 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. lancashire.gov.uk

2 May to 3 May
Bloom Festival
Horseshoe Glamping, Back Lane, Charnock Richard
Celebrate the May bank holiday at Bloom Festival, a weekend of fun, relaxation and trying new experiences. Set in beautiful countryside with glamping. £150. 2 May to 3 May. https://www.horseshoeglampingtents.com

4 May
Ilkley Carnival 2026
Ilkley Town Centre, Ilkley Town Centre, The Grove, Ilkley
The volunteer-run May Day extravaganza over the past four events has raised more than £100,000 for local community groups which supports organisations including schools, sports clubs, scouts and guides and local charities including Ilkley and District Good Neighbours, Ilkley Stroke Group and AWARE (Airedale and Wharfedale Autism Resource). With a spectacular parade which starts on The Grove and attracts more than 1,000 participants from local schools, organisations and theatre groups, the highlight of every Ilkley Carnival is the day of family fun that unfolds on our fabulous showground which brings something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting Ilkley for the day or part of the neighbourhood which makes this wonderful event the success it is today, Ilkley Carnival is a not-to-be-missed annual event which kickstarts a season of festivals and family celebrations in this wonderful town. With all profits made from ticket sales going back into the local community, Ilkley Carnival is so much more than a one-day festival – with your support and that of the teams of volunteers who make it happen, it’s an event that makes a difference to many lives all year, every year. Free. 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. https://www.ilkleycarnival.org

6 May to 17 May
HuddLitFest
Huddersfield Town Hall , Huddersfield
HuddLitFest is an award-winning Festival taking place annually in May, with community, accessibility and inclusivity at its heart. Join us in venues and online for a celebration of books and authors, poetry and performance – and much more. Meet your favourite authors, discover new talent and hone your own skills. Many free or low-cost events, including some hybrid and online events and some with live subtitling by Stagetext. 6 May to 17 May. https://www.huddlitfest.org.uk

9 May
Haworth Haddock
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Station Road, Haworth
The fish and chips will be delivered to you at Keighley Station, and you can enjoy them while you are sitting. A local ‘chippy’ in Crossflatts – Jacks Fisheries, provides the fish and chips. Once everyone has their fish and chips, we will begin our journey whilst you enjoy the food. Once at Oxenhope, stretch your legs whilst we restock the bar and prepare the train for your return journey to Keighley. Once we arrive at Keighley for the second time, a band will be waiting to entertain you. Sit back and listen, or join your fellow passengers and dance the night away on the platform. The bands will be announced when we receive confirmation from them. The bar will be open throughout when you work up a thirst from the dancing. £31. 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm. https://kwvr.co.uk

10 May
POP HUNTERS: LIVE
Thornton Hall Country Park, Thornton in Craven, Barnoldswick
A brand-new live family show bursting with energy, music and adventure! Join a team of young heroes as they set out on an unforgettable quest filled with surprises, laughter and plenty of pop power. Expect dazzling performances, catchy beats and moments that will have everyone on their feet. Packed with fun for all ages, POP HUNTERS is the must-see live show — book your tickets now and be part of the action! 10:30 am to 3:00 pm. https://thorntonhallfarm.co.uk

16 May to 17 May
1940s Weekend
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Station Road, Haworth
An unforgettable journey into the 1940s as the railway is transformed into a living history experience. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and spirit of wartime Britain, with music, entertainment, and re-enactments bringing the era to life. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a vintage fashion lover, or simply looking for a unique day out, there’s something for everyone at our 1940s Weekend. Dust off your best period attire, step aboard a heritage steam train, and experience a truly special journey back in time. 16 May to 17 May. https://kwvr.co.uk

16 May to 29 May
BLACKPOOL DANCE FESTIVAL
King’s Hall & Winter Gardens, Station Rd, Ilkley
The Blackpool Dance Festival began in 1920 in the Empress Ballroom at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. Covering a period of fourteen days, the May Blackpool Dance Festival is by far the largest of the five festivals held in Blackpool. The Festival covers Ballroom and Latin American dancing, incorporating the British Open Championships for Adult Amateur and Professional couples, plus Formation Teams. 2026 will see the 100th Anniversary celebration of the Festival. 16 May to 29 May. https://blackpooldancefestival.com