1 January to 31 December
UK City of Culture 2025
Various venues Bradford
Bradford district’s year of culture is set to deliver more than 1,000 new performances and events including 365 artist commissions, a series of major arts festivals and major national and international collaborations. Visit the website for further details.
1 January to 31 December.
https://www.visitbradford.com/
11 January to 28 September
ENGINEERY EXHIBITION
Leeds Industrial Museum, Armley Mills, Canal Rd,
Leeds
On the 300th anniversary of John Smeaton, dubbed the Father of Civil Engineering, our new exhibition celebrates civil engineering in its many forms! Uncover unique objects that were central to Smeaton’s journey and an accompanying exhibition by our Young Smeatonians group which poses challenging questions about the subject. The exhibition is on until 28th Sept 2025.
11 January to 28 September.
https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/
1 February to 31 December
From Haworth To Eternity: The Enduring Legacy Of The Brontës
Bronte Parsonage Museum, Church Street,
Haworth
The Brontës’ enduring popularity is largely explained by the power and originality of the stories they created, but the story of the Brontës’ own lives is as compelling as their fictions. The family’s home at Haworth Parsonage, and the moorland surrounding it, were a profound influence on the Brontës, and became part of the irresistible draw of Haworth for visitors from all over the world.
1 February to 31 December.
bronte.org.uk
11 February to 5 November
THE BLACKPOOL TOWER CIRCUS
Blackpool Tower Circus ,
Blackpool
Experience stunts, comedy, and legendary clowns Mooky and Mr Boo at this historic circus.
11 February to 5 November.
theblackpooltower.com
24 March to 31 December
Axe-Throwing
The Axe Imperium, The Fun House,
Colne
Axes to Ashes is coming to The Fun House, Colne. Inject some spontaneity, some excitement, some togetherness! Reconnect with your partner, your children, your friends. Do something that makes you feel alive. Release that inner Viking Lose your pent-up frustration It's therapy. It's fun. It's addictive. Axes to Ashes isn't an ordinary axe throwing venue with very limited equipment; it has Tomahawks, Angel Axes, Throwing Knives and its very own Axes to Ashes Dragon Axe®. Plus there is an Axelings™ Range which is suitable for children and those with physical impairments which may limit their ability to throw regular projectiles. Various times and prices.
24 March to 31 December.
https://www.axestoashes.com/axe-imperium
29 March to 31 December
Life Goes On – Exhibition
Salts Mill, Saltaire,
Shipley
An exhibition featuring Ian Beesley, a celebrated Bradford-born photographer. Known for his powerful images of Northern England, Beesley will showcase a collection of previously unseen works from his extensive archive. Wed - Sun 10am - 5pm. Free.
29 March to 31 December.
saltsmill.org.uk
2 April to 2 November
An Account of Life: Gawthorpe Hall in the 1600s
An exhibition bringing the household of Gawthorpe Hall in the 1600s to life, through the original account books of the Shuttleworth Family. Various opening times.
2 April to 2 November.
lancashire.gov.uk
5 April to 1 November
Trial By Jury
Bradford Police Museum,, City Hall, Centenary Square,,
Bradford
Experience the drama and intrigue of a Victorian-era courtroom like never before! Join us for an immersive reenactment where you become part of the story. First Saturday of each month. £15/£20.
5 April to 1 November.
bradfordpolicemuseum.com
13 April to 14 December
Saltaire Farmers Market
Roberts Park, Higher Coach Road,
Saltaire
The Saltaire Farmers Market takes place on the second Sunday of every month It offers a wide variety of products from local and independent traders, including hot food and drinks, baked goods, cheese, cakes, pies, , brownies, chocolates, charcuterie, fish, fruits, vegetables, jewellery, candles, clothes, gifts, and treats.
13 April to 14 December.
https://realmarkets.co.uk
20 April to 19 October
Monthly Classic Car Rally at Heskin Hall
Heskin Hall, Wood Lane,
Chorley
Monthly classic vehicle (all types welcome) rally on a Sunday. Prize for winner. £3.00 to enter. Free for those visiting to look around.Cafe at the Manor & bar are open! See website for dates.
20 April to 19 October.
heskinhall.com
21 May to 29 June
Mary Poppins
The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street,
Bradford
Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s spectacular production of the classic multi award-winning musical Mary Poppins. The story of the World’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is even more magical than ever before featuring dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs. Various times & prices.
21 May to 29 June.
bradford-theatres.co.uk
19 June to 28 June
Labour of Love
Ilkley Playhouse, Weston Road,
Ilkley
A witty and engaging play that takes audiences on a captivating journey through two decades of British politics. 7.30pm, sat mat 2pm. £5 - £14.
19 June to 28 June.
ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk
20 June to 29 June
Circus Extreme – Shibden Hall
Shibden Hall, Lister's Road,
Halifax
Brace yourself for the ultimate adrenaline-fueled experience as Circus Extreme presents ROCK IT OUT—a ground-breaking fusion of live rock music and world-class circus stunts! Various times & prices.
20 June to 29 June.
museums.calderdale.gov.uk
23 June
Milton Jones – HA!MILTON
King’s Hall, Station Road,
Ilkley
This is not a musical. Milton Jones is tone deaf and has no sense of rhythm, but at least he doesn't make a song and dance about it. A whole new show of daftness. You know it makes sense.
£35.25.
7:30 pm.
bradford-theatres.co.uk
23 June
The Girl on the Train
Keighley Playhouse, Devonshire Street,
Keighley
Rachel Watson longs for a different life. Her only escape is the perfect couple she watches through the train window every day, happy and in love. Or so it appears. When Rachel learns that the woman she’s been secretly watching has suddenly disappeared, she finds herself as a witness and even a suspect in a thrilling mystery in which she will face bigger revelations than she could ever have anticipated.
£12.
7:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
http://www.keighleyplayhouse.co.uk/
25 June
An Evening with Lord Ian Botham
The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street,
Halifax
Lord Ian Botham, the former England captain, was one of the most impactful all-rounders of his generation with 14 centuries and 383 wickets in a career that spanned over 15 years. Join Lord Ian, as he discusses his amazing career, and everything in between.
£34.25.
7:30 pm to 9:30 pm.
victoriatheatre.co.uk
25 June
NOTES FROM A SMALL ISLAND
Harrogate Studio Theatre, Oxford Street,
Harrogate
The Harrogate Dramatic Society is proud to present the stage play in which Tim Whitnall has brought to life many of the encounters related by Bill Bryson.
£15.
7:45 pm to 11:00 pm.
harrogatetheatre.co.uk
26 June
THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN
Harrogate Theatre, Oxford Street,
Harrogate
Seen by millions, The Magic of Motown is back with its 20th Anniversary Tour!
£36.
7:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
harrogatetheatre.co.uk
27 June to 6 July
Bradford Literature Festival
Bradford City Centre, Various venues,
Bradford
Bradford Literature Festival is an annual festival and year-round cultural outreach programme. Encompassing the best of literature, music, theatre, cultural discussions, lectures and family events. Over 500 events take place in historic venues over the course of ten days celebrating the written and spoken word in all of its glorious forms.
27 June to 6 July.
visitbradford.com
27 June
The Secret Storytelling Club
The Met, Market Street,
Bury
The Secret Storytelling Club invites you to an unforgettable evening of captivating tales, spine tingling songs, and thought-provoking conversations.
£22.
7:00 pm.
themet.org.uk
28 June
Geology Rocks at Clitheroe Castle
Clitheroe Castle & Museum, Castle Hill,
Clitheroe
Did you know that some rocks float? Which is the only rock that humans can eat? Do you want to find out more? Come along and meet our amazing geologists. Discover more about the rocks and minerals we see and use every day. Challenge the experts by bringing your own rock for identification. There's lots of drop-in fun activities throughout the day, so be sure to take your young geologists along to this free event.
Free.
11:30 am to 3:00 pm.
https://events.apps.lancashire.gov.uk/w/webpage/event-details?eventid=1967279
28 June to 29 June
Chorley Chocolate Festival
Duxbury Park Golf Club, Duxbury Hall Road,
Chorley
Exhibitors and a demonstration stage, offering tips and advice on the many uses chocolate has. Tel: 01942 496 844 for further details.
28 June to 29 June.
28 June
G2 Definitive Genesis
The Met, Market Street,
Bury
G2 Definitive Genesis pay tribute to Genesis’ four-man “Seconds Out” era, whilst also dipping back into the earlier Gabriel years. G2 are currently celebrating their 25th anniversary year of playing classic 1970s Genesis.
£27.
7:30 pm to 10:30 pm.
themet.org.uk
29 June
Heywood Station Car Boot Sale
Heywood Station Car Park, East Lancashire Railway,
Heywood, Greater Manchester.
Organised by the good folks at the Whistlestop Café on the Station Platform, all pitch fees are donated to the ELR, so you can hunt for good deals safe in the knowledge that you are helping to preserve British Heritage for years to come.
8:30 am to 1:00 pm.
https://www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/
29 June
Bury Agricultural Show
Burrs Country Park ,
Bury
With livestock competitions and demonstrations, educational exhibitions, hands-on activities, delicious food, and much more, this event is a true celebration of the land and the people who work it. Adult £8, child £4.
9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
buryagricultural.org.uk
29 June
Bradford Brick Festival – Lego
Sedbergh Sports and Leisure Centre,, Low Moor,
Bradford
A Lego fan event dedicated to all things brick! This will be a great day for families, collectors, adult builders and every other kind of Lego fan. With lots to see and do including speed building competitions, large scale displays, activities, new Lego sets, retired lego sets, plus a dedicated building area. £5 - £18.
10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
bradforddragonboatfestival.co.uk
29 June
CLASSIC & PERFORMANCE MOTOR SHOW
Hoghton Tower, Hoghton,
Preston
Great British Motor Shows are back near Preston to take over the beautiful setting of Hoghton Tower with a Classic & Performance Motor Show in front of the house and in the main show field, packed with stunning exhibiting cars, bikes and 4×4’s. Trade stands, autojumble plus show arena on display on the event field. Adult £9.50, children 5yrs - 15yrs £5, under 5's free, family £25.
10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
hoghtontower.co.uk
29 June
JOSH ROUSE
The Trades Club ,
Hebden Bridge
With his Spanish band, Rouse crafted ten relaxed, road-ready tracks in a small local venue.
£18.
7:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
thetradesclub.com
1 July to 6 July
Ripon Theatre Festival 2025
ripon, Ripon,
Ripon
Get ready for a joyful celebration of live performance, bursting with theatre, music, dance, storytelling, puppetry, and plenty of laughs. Ripon Theatre Festival is fast becoming a highlight of the region’s cultural calendar—welcoming audiences of all ages with a programme that’s packed with high-quality performances, friendly faces, and magical moments. We’ll be popping up in streets, gardens, museums, and surprise locations all across our glorious city. Expect big laughs, bold ideas, and brilliant memories—and with many events free to attend, it’s the perfect way to kick off your summer.
1 July to 6 July.
https://www.ripontheatrefestival.org/
1 July
Tennants Valuations Day at Leighton Hall
Leighton Hall ,
Carnforth
Free valuation event, hosted by Tennants Auctioneers. Specialists will look at items including jewellery, ceramics, antiques and paintings.
11:00 am to 3:00 pm.
visitlancashire.com
2 July to 6 July
TK MAXX PRESENTS LYTHAM FESTIVAL 2025
Lytham Green, Lytham St. Annes
The North West's Largest live festival. Kings of Leon, Stevie Wonder, Alanis Morissette, Justin Timberlake and Simple Minds and Texas will all headline TK Maxx presents Lytham Festival 2025.
2 July to 6 July.
lythamfestival.com
2 July
Living the Life of Riley
Albert Halls, Victoria Square,
Bolton
Starring Vicky Entwistle - Living the Life of Riley is a heart-warming, heart-breaking and hilarious tale of a family, trying to negotiate their way through teenage tantrums, autism, and Grandma.
£26.75.
7:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
alberthalls-bolton.co.uk
2 July to 4 July
The Highwayman
Matcham Auditorium, Drury Lane,
Wakefield
This July, West Yorkshire playwright John Godber is bringing his hilarious new play 'The Highwayman' to Theatre Royal Wakefield for three exclusive shows! You will not want to miss out on this brilliant production! It’s 1769, and everyone is flocking north; every ale house is packed with the great and the bad. Yorkshire is the place to be; a region drunk on making money, social climbing, gambling and gin, but with wealth in abundance, the temptation is great. The Highwayman is a thrilling theatrical adventure from John Godber, told in the style of his infamous Bouncers, is visceral, venal and very funny. The Highwayman’s creed is simple; look after number one and to hell with the hangman! Written and directed by John Godber, with music from Ruby Macintosh and starring a collection of emerging actors history will have never felt more alive, and theft never so attractive! Tickets on sale now for 'The Highwayman' at Theatre Royal Wakefield: https://www.theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk/events/the-highwayman-2025
£15.
2 July to 4 July.
https://www.theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk/events/the-highwayman-2025
2 July to 5 July
Rock of Ages
Pendle Hippodrome Theatre, New Market Street,
Colne
Rock of Ages presented by Accrington Theatre Group tells the story of a small town girl, a city boy and a rock n roll romance story on the sunset strip. When Dupree's Bourbon room is set to be demolished, its up to the wannabe rockers and their band of friends to save the day, and the music.
£15.
2 July to 5 July.
pendlehippodrome.com
3 July
Nanna Mo’s Botox and Bum Lifts
The Met, Market Street,
Bury
After doing an online course in cosmetic procedures Nanna Mo has started earning a few quid by giving Botox jabs and Brazilian butt lifts to the fellow residents of her care home. A New Comedy by MaD Theatre Company. £14/£16.
7:30 pm.
themet.org.uk
4 July
VOULEZ VOUS – THE DINNER PARTY
Burnley Mechanics, Manchester Road,
Burnley
Voulez Vous - The Dinner PartyPresented by LaughlinesLove the sensational music of ‘ABBA’, combined with good food, drink and a great fun night out then the smash hit show - Voulez Vous.
£39.50.
7:30 pm.
blcgroup.co.uk
4 July
5 Mistakes that Changed History
The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street,
Halifax
We all make mistakes, but rarely do they change the course of history. 5 Mistakes That Changed History is a hilarious historical storytelling show performed by historian and comedian, Paul Coulter, about five people and how their mistakes (big and small!) changed the world. £22.25 - £24.25.
7:30 pm.
victoriatheatre.co.uk
4 July to 5 July
Twisted! The Musical
The Muni Theatre ,
Colne
This brand-new musical is an intriguing continuation of Dickens’ classic novel, Oliver Twist, shedding new light on beloved characters in a thrilling story of redemption, justice and the enduring power of love. Set in the heart of Victorian London, "Twisted! The Musical" follows Oliver Brownlow, now a young man, as he becomes intertwined with Jane, a working-class flower girl battling the harsh realities of life with an alcoholic uncle. This two-hour production combines live music, dynamic performances, and captivating choreography to explore profound themes of resilience, love, and social justice. Developed as a musical reimagining, "Twisted!" gives lovers of "Oliver Twist" a chance to see where Oliver's life has taken him and how he navigates the complexities of adulthood in a world that challenges his ideals. Select performances will feature a Q&A session with the writers, director, and principal cast, allowing audiences to delve deeper into the story and its themes. Age: 12+ Parental Guidance required
£29.
4 July to 5 July.
www.themuni.co.uk
4 July
Skipton Comedy Live
Skipton Town Hall, High Street,
Skipton
Get ready for a night of non-stop laughter at Skipton Comedy Live! The Hub bar will be open from 7pm with regular drinks intervals throughout the show.
£11.
8:00 pm.
skiptontownhall.co.uk
4 July
Arctic Numpties
The Met, Market Street,
Bury
Experience the ultimate Arctic Monkeys tribute with Yorkshire's own Arctic Numpties! This passionate band meticulously recreates the Sheffield icons' sound and look, covering hits from all seven albums. £18/£20.
8:00 pm.
themet.org.uk
5 July to 6 July
National Festival of Making 2025
Blackburn Town Centre, King William Street,
Blackburn
The National Festival of Making is a free festival for all to enjoy, taking place in over 20 venues and public spaces across Blackburn town centre over one incredible weekend. Expect to find creative workshops and live street performances for all ages, remarkable exhibitions, talks, film screenings, delicious food from local artisan producers, makers markets, and much more.
5 July to 6 July.
festivalofmaking.co.uk
5 July
Langcliffe Singers
Settle Victoria Hall, Kirkgate,
Settle
Langcliffe Singers return to Victoria Hall to present a fun-filled evening of ballads, songs and snatches from the masters of operetta, Gilbert and Sullivan.
£15.
7:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
settlevictoriahall.org.uk
8 July to 12 July
Picture You Dead
The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street,
Bradford
Superintendent Roy Grace is back in a brand-new Peter James stage adaptation and world premiere of the bestselling Picture You Dead, which has opened to rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. Various times & prices.
8 July to 12 July.
bradford-theatres.co.uk
8 July to 11 July
The Great Yorkshire Show
Great Yorkshire Showground ,
Harrogate
The Great Yorkshire Show is the country's leading agricultural event. Each year the Great Yorkshire Show attracts in excess of 125,000 visitors. A great day out for all the family. Adult £36.50, child £13,under 5s free, family £89.
8 July to 11 July.
greatyorkshireshow.co.uk
9 July to 12 July
Disney’s Aladdin – Chorley Youth Theatre
Chorley Theatre, Dole Lane,
Chorley
Ring bells. Bang the drums. Chorley Youth Theatre presents an exciting stage adaptation of the legendary tale of the lovable thief with the heart of gold. Adult £10, child £8, family £32. Various times.
9 July to 12 July.
chorleytheatre.com
9 July to 12 July
Little Shop Of Horrors
Preston Playhouse, Market Street West,
Preston
Little Shop of Horrors is the ever popular dark comedy from Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, produced by the award-winning Preston Musical Comedy Society. Various prices.
9 July to 12 July.
prestonplayhouse.co.uk
10 July to 13 September
Hot Ice Show XS
The Arena, Blackpool Pleasure Beach, 525 Ocean Boulevard,
Blackpool
Thirty Olympic and world champion skaters join forces on the ice to create a show of passion, pace and nothing short of pure adrenaline. It’s nail-biting, hair-raising, awe-inspiring and tear-jerking. Various times.
£10.
10 July to 13 September.
bookings.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com
11 July
Pride & Prejudice – Outdoor Theatre
Rufford Old Hall, 200 Liverpool Road,
Rufford
Join Chapterhouse Theatre Company as you step back in time over two hundred years and meet Elizabeth Bennet and her sisters as they navigate the mire of manners of regency society. Adult £20, child £14, family £60. Tel: 0344 249 1895.
7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
nationaltrust.org.uk
11 July
Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice
Rufford Old Hall, 200 Liverpool Road,
Rufford
Step back in time over two hundred years and meet Elizabeth Bennet and her sisters as they navigate the mire of manners of regency society.
7:00 pm to 9:30 pm.
visitlancashire.com
11 July
80’s Live!
St. George’s Hall ,
Bradford
Direct from London’s West End, we will be heading down the Atlanta Highway, so bring your jukebox money and get ready to Jitterbug.
£34.
7:30 pm.
www.bradford-theatres.co.uk