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/

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

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

6 September to 31 December
Bradford on Foot
Bradford on Foot , Bradford
Discover Bradford on Foot, a collection of themed walks and tours exploring hidden streets, scenic countryside, and local heritage. Curated for Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, these routes have been selected by walking groups, historians, schoolchildren, artists, and locals. All available to download or pick up in paper format at Bradford libraries. 6 September to 31 December. bradford2025.co.uk

10 September to 13 November
Woven Through Time: Bradford’s Textile Industry – Past and Present
Bradford Industrial Museum,, Moorside Road, Bradford
Born and raised in Bradford, Ian Beesley is an award winning and internationally acclaimed artist and photographer. During the 1970s and 80s, Ian was given the opportunity to photograph inside the working mills of Bradford. For this exhibition, Ian has revisited Bradford’s textile industry once again, capturing how it has changed in the decades since.  Closed Mon. Exhibition ends 16th Nov. 10 September to 13 November. bradfordmuseums.org

13 September to 26 November
A Good Yarn
Bradford Industrial Museum,, Moorside Road, Bradford
A Good Yarn is quite the sight – a gigantic yarn ball, three metres high and wide. It was created by 2,500 residents of BD10, who plaited vast quantities of found and donated fabric into a kilometre-long rope and then wound it into a ball. After following its rolls through the streets of BD10 the yarn ball which was the brainchild of Luke Jerram, is now on display at Bradford Industrial Museum.   13 September to 26 November. https://bradford2025.co.uk/

27 September 2025 to 3 January 2026
Katharine Holmes and Three Generations of Painting and Living in a Malham Cottage
The Folly, Victoria Street, Settle BD24 9EY, The Folly, Victoria Street, Settle
This exhibition explores Katharine Holmes’s stunning modern paintings alongside the work of her mother and grandmother, Phillipa Holmes and Constance Pearson. Selected works by Katharine Holmes will be for sale. Runs until Sat, 3 January 2026 27 September 2025 to 3 January 2026. https://thefolly.org.uk/event/katharine-holmes-and-three-generations-of-painting-and-living-in-a-malham-cottage/

2 October to 2 November
BRITISH TEXTILE BIENNIAL
Various Venues , Knareborough
British Textile Biennial (BTB) is a free festival of contemporary art, commissioning artists and designers from all over the world to make work inspired by the context and legacy of the textile industry in East Lancashire and its global impact, often in the places that were created by it. Free. 2 October to 2 November. britishtextilebiennial.co.uk

10 October to 10 November
OFF THE SHELF FESTIVAL OF WORDS
Sheffield City Centre
The month-long celebration of books, words and ideas will bring leading literary voices, cultural figures and performers to venues across the city. 10 October to 10 November. offtheshelf.org.uk

25 October to 2 November
SKIPTON MONSTER TRIAL
High Street, Skipton, Skipton
Ten monsters are hiding around town. Are you brave enough to find them? Find the monsters hidden in shop windows around the town centre and write down the letters they are hiding. Find the hidden word to be entered into a prize draw. Free. 25 October to 2 November. welcometoskipton.com

28 October to 2 November
Bradford International Film Festival
Various Venues across Bradford
Bradford International Film Festival (BradIFF) is back! Celebrating the creativity of Bradford’s filmmakers alongside outstanding films from across the UK and beyond, BradIFF brings the magic of cinema to the heart of our UNESCO City of Film. With a rich filmmaking heritage and a thriving creative scene, Bradford has long been a powerhouse for film and television—and in 2025, the city shines even brighter as the UK City of Culture. 28 October to 2 November. www.bradiff.com

29 October to 24 December
THE ELF EXPLORER
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Station Road, Haworth
Step into a world of festive wonder with The Elf Explorer – a heart-warming steam train journey packed with Christmas cheer, mischievous elves, and a visit from Father Christmas himself. 29 October to 24 December. kwvr.co.uk

30 October to 8 November
THE UNFRIEND
Ilkley Playhouse, Weston Road, Ilkley
When Peter and Debbie meet the super-friendly, lifeloving, Trump-supporting Elsa on a cruise, they politely agree to stay in contact – because that’s the polite thing to do, isn’t it? But when Elsa invites herself to stay a few months later, they decide to do some research into their uninvited guest… and uncover Elsa’s shocking hidden past. 7.30pm. Sat mat 2.30pm. £5 - £14. 30 October to 8 November. ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk

30 October to 23 November
Matilda
The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford
This anarchic production, about a strong and determined heroine with a vivid imagination, has won over 100 global awards, including 24 for Best Musical. Various times & prices.     30 October to 23 November. bradford-theatres.co.uk

2 November
THE RAILWAY 200 EXHIBITION TRAIN
Blackpool North Station, Talbot Road, Blackpool
Sporting an eye-catching livery, visitors, young and old, will go on a journey of discovery exploring the railway’s 200-year story of innovation, brought to life by interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities. Free. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. railway200.co.uk

2 November
BONFIRE NIGHT COLNE
Colne Cricket Club, Byron Rd, Colne
An unforgettable bonfire and firework display! Ticket details to be released. 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. colnecricket.co.uk

2 November
ABBAMANIA
Darwen Library Theatre, Knott Street, Darwen
Europe's leading ABBA tribute, ABBAmania, continues to entertain audiences with its outstanding vocals and musical performances live on stage. £29. 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. bwdvenues.com

3 November
THE BIG CHRISTMAS ASSEMBLY 2025
Lancaster Grand Theatre, St Leonardgate, Lancaster
Step into the Christmas spirit with James B Partridge and his The Big Christmas Assembly 2025 show. This festive event promises a joyful evening of sing-along classics, taking you back to the nostalgia of Christmases past. £27.50. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. lancastergrand.co.uk

4 November to 8 November
Dear England
Leeds Grand Theatre, New Briggate, Leeds
The National Theatre’s Olivier Award-winning smash hit comes to Leeds in a highly anticipated tour. From multi-award-winning writer James Graham (Sherwood, BBC) and director Rupert Goold (Patriots, Cold War), this five-star ‘new stage epic’ (Telegraph) tells the uplifting, at times heartbreaking, and ultimately inspiring story of Gareth Southgate’s revolutionary tenure as England manager, in a ‘gripping’ (Times) examination of nation and game. 7.30pm. Wed & Thurs mat 2pm. £33 - £68. 4 November to 8 November. https://leedsheritagetheatres.com/

4 November
SHED STORIES
Wesley Methodist Church, 28 Oxford St, Harrogate
Uniquely blending theatre, movement and documentary, Shed Stories is a heartwarming performance that brings to life the world of ‘Men’s Sheds’; community groups where people can come together to make, repair and repurpose as well as improve their wellbeing and mental health. £16. 4:00 pm to 7:30 pm. harrogatetheatre.co.uk

4 November
SKIPTON MUSIC PRESENTS: JUNYAN CHEN
Skipton Town Hall, High Street, Skipton
Junyan Chen, second prize winner at the 2024 Leeds International Piano Competition, is a rising star known for her versatility and passion for contemporary music. £25. 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm. skiptontownhall.co.uk

5 November
AFTERLIVES OF THE BRONTËS
Bronte Parsonage Museum, Church Street, Haworth
This online course, led by Gothic literature expert Dr Sam Hirst, will explore different aspects of this question. Examine the histories of publication and discovery, look at the ‘afterlives’ of the Brontës in biographies and biopics – as well as claims of the Brontës’ afterlife return! Six-week course. £150. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. bronte.org.uk

5 November
THE OVERTONES CHRISTMAS PARTY
The Atkinson, Lord Street, Southport
Expect a perfect mix of classic Christmas hits with the best feel-good hits from disco, soul, Motown and pop, all with The Overtones' unique twist and delivered with the charm and charisma that has made them a household name. £36. 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. theatkinson.co.uk

6 November
SNOW WHITE
The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford
Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don’t miss the fairest panto of them all! Bring a touch of fairytale sparkle to your festive season with this year’s magical pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs! £27 – £45. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. bradford-theatres.co.uk

6 November to 8 November
LIGHT UP LANCASTER
Town Centre, Lancaster , Lancaster
This year’s theme has been announced as ‘In The Blink of an Eye’. Audiences will experience a festival where shapeshifting, illusion and the ever-changing will be reflected in fun, engaging and clever light artworks. Free. 6 November to 8 November. lightuplancaster.co.uk

7 November
BONFIRE NIGHT BACUP
Bacup Cricket Club, Lane Head Lane, Bacup
Gates open at 5 pm. The Bonfire will be lit at 5.30 pm. "Silent" fireworks at 6.30 pm, followed by the main display at 7.30 pm. There will be lots to do to entertain the whole family, including Fairground Rides and Children's Stalls, which will run until 9 pm. Early bird £12. £12. 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm. bacupcc.com

7 November
BONFIRE WEEKEND THORNTON HALL
Thornton Hall Country Park, Thornton in Craven, Barnoldswick
This sell-out spectacular returns – bigger, brighter, and louder than ever before! Get ready for a blazing bonfire, jaw-dropping fireworks, and a night packed full of crackling excitement, tasty treats, and sparkling family fun. £19.95. 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm. thorntonhallfarm.co.uk

7 November
FOCUS
The Atkinson, Lord Street, Southport
The band from the 1960s/70s that just keeps giving. Fresh from a successful 2024, which included the release of their new studio album Focus 12, they will traverse Europe to give their loyal fans what they always want: a good time and timeless music. £30. 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. theatkinson.co.uk

8 November
Colne Orchestra – Man and Machine
The Muni Theatre , Colne
The David Foulds Memorial concert will be held in memory of our long service member, committee member and President. As a renowned local business owner of Foulds Lifts, with a long standing and proud family heritage of engineering and machine will therefore see the concert cover a varied programme of music inspired by or about machines!Under 16s free. £15. 7:30 am to 7:30 pm. themuni.co.uk

8 November
HANGAR GUIDED TOURS
The Spitfire Visitor Centre, Hanger 42, Squires Gate Lane, Blackpool
Ticket only day at the Spitfire Visitor Centre.  These tours are suitable for children aged 10 years and above. The WW2 Themed Cafe will be open, serving Hot Drinks and a selection of Cakes and light snacks. £12. 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. ticketsource.co.uk/spitfire-visitor-centre-blackpool-airport

8 November
WALLACE & GROMIT WITH LIVE BRASS BAND
Life Church, Burnley
After the sell-out success of the last live-to-picture performance, presenting The Wrong Trousers with live brass band at Life Church. 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

8 November
The Wittering Whitehalls: Barely Alive
St George’s Hall, Bridge St, Bradford
Join Michael and Hilary for an exclusive show as they bring their hit podcast to the stage.  Take a comfy (-ish) seat and garner their thoughts on everything from workouts to weddings, seaside towns to social media and everything in between! £30.50. 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. bradford-theatres.co.uk

8 November
THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME
Burnley Mechanics, Manchester Road, Burnley
Based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, The Hunchback of Notre Dame showcases the film’s Academy Award-nominated score, as well as new songs by Menken and Schwartz. Peter Parnell’s new book embraces story theatre and features verbatim passages from Hugo’s gothic novel. £24. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. blcgroup.co.uk

9 November
ENCHANTED – THE CANDLELIGHT CONCERT
The Muni Theatre , Colne
Performed by a cast of talented live singers from the world of Musical Theatre, this concert features beautifully arranged music from timeless classics such as Frozen, Tangled, Moana, Wicked, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, The Lion King, and many more. £27. 2:30 pm. themuni.co.uk

9 November
COUNT ARTHUR STRONG IS CHARLES DICKENS IN ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’
Leeds Grand Theatre, New Briggate, Leeds
Count Arthur Strong takes on one of the literary greats, the famous Charles Dickens, and then presents his one-man interpretation of A Christmas Carol. £30.50. 8:00 pm to 10:30 pm. leedsheritagetheatres.com

11 November
9 TO 5 THE MUSICAL
The Grand Theatre, 18 York Street, Clitheroe
9 to 5 The Musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick, is based on the 1980 hit movie. This hilarious story of friendship and revenge is outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic! £14. 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. lancastergrand.co.uk

11 November
From Gold To Rio
Albert Halls, Victoria Square, Bolton
The Greatest Hits of Spandau Ballet & Duran Duran. Two of the UK's most iconic bands will be brought to life in one power packed tribute show. £25.75. 7:30 pm. https://www.manchestertheatres.com/

12 November to 15 November
SAOS: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Settle Victoria Hall, Kirkgate, Settle
Go Go Go ! …… Settle Amateur Operatic Society perform one of the most enduring shows of all time, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.  7pm, Sat mat  2.30pm. Adult £18, child £12. 12 November to 15 November. settlevictoriahall.org.uk

12 November
PACK OF LIES
Blackburn Empire Theatre, Aqueduct Rd, Blackburn
The Jacksons are a nice middle-aged English couple. Their best friends are their Canadian neighbours, the Krogers. All is blissful in their world until a detective from Scotland Yard asks to use their house as an observation station to try and foil a Soviet spy ring operating in the area. £12.50. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. blackburnempire.com

13 November
YORK CHRISTMAS MARKET 2025
Parliament Street, York
York's award-winning Christmas Market is back from 13th November to 21st December 2025, bringing festive cheer to the heart of the city. Support local businesses while enjoying a magical Christmas! Free. 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. visityork.org

13 November
THURSDAY TALK: THE FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN ELIZABETH GASKELL AND CHARLOTTE BRONTË
Bronte Parsonage Museum, Church Street, Haworth
This Thursday Talk will be delivered by Libby Tempest, Vice-Chair of the Elizabeth Gaskell Society and a dedicated advocate for literary access across communities. Free. 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. bronte.org.uk

13 November
THE NUTCRACKER
Royal Hall, Harrogate, Ripon Road, Harrogate
Following last year’s phenomenal success, Imperial Classical Ballet® is delighted to return to the UK with their breathtaking production of The Nutcracker. £34. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. harrogatetheatre.co.uk

14 November
SUZY HOMEMAKER
Skipton Town Hall, High Street, Skipton
Suzy Homemaker was a line of miniature functional toy household appliances produced by Topper Toys, and launched in 1966, teaching girls how to be the perfect housewife. In this performance we see women throughout history trapped in a role they did not ask for, and had no choice in. £13. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. skiptontownhall.co.uk

14 November
The Ultimate Classic Rock Show
Albert Halls, Victoria Square, Bolton
Dust off your air guitars for an evening of the very best classic rock anthems from legends past and present! Over two hours of classic rock anthems from artists including Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, Queen, Pink Floyd, Deep Purple, Free, Eagles and Jimi Hendrix to name but a few! £30. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. alberthalls-bolton.co.uk

14 November
MUTTON
West Park United Reform Church, West Park, Harrogate
Mutton is a new dark comedy from Brave Words, exploring the life and times of the Yorkshire Witch. How the desperation of ordinary folk in the early 1800s is paralleled today. £16. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. harrogatetheatre.co.uk

15 November to 23 November
Arts, Crafts & Gifts Fair
Pendle Hippodrome Theatre, New Market Street, Colne
Each year, the theatre is transformed into a major exhibition hall and regularly features over 70 local crafters and artists. There are always new and unusual crafts to see, along with all our regular exhibitors. £2. 15 November to 23 November. pendlehippodrome.com