Leeds, as a major cultural, educational, and innovative city, hosts numerous festivals each year across various themes. These events are crucial for those who like to stay connected to the pulse of city life. With both paid and free options available, Leeds residents and visitors always have a choice. Next on leedski.
To ensure you don’t miss out on attending a spectacular event without spending money, it’s worth exploring the free options in advance. Below are a few of these festivals, as highlighted on Visitleeds.co.uk.
Kirkstall Festival
The annual Kirkstall Festival is held at Kirkstall Abbey and is entirely organised by volunteers, making it completely free for attendees. It offers a wide range of entertainment for all tastes and age groups, including food trucks, Viking and strongman shows, live music, and delicious beer to enhance the experience.
Visitors can purchase a programme for a small donation, with proceeds supporting the event. The programme provides detailed information about the planned performances and shows. More information about the festival is available on its official website.
African and Caribbean Food Festival
This vibrant event is a treat for food enthusiasts. African and Caribbean cuisine offers a burst of flavours and unparalleled enjoyment for the taste buds. The festival showcases culinary masterpieces at over 25 food stalls, featuring dishes such as jerk chicken, spicy jollof rice, lamb curry with rice, fried dumplings, and more.
The event’s goal is to bring together food lovers, chefs, and fans of this cultural cuisine from across the city and beyond. A carnival atmosphere, combined with soulful music, adds to the lively vibe of the festival. Families can enjoy activities like face painting and making carnival masks, while local performers entertain the crowd. Sweet treats such as coconut cakes, rum cake, and other desserts are also available.
Saudha International Literary Festival
This poetry and Indian music festival serves as a leading platform for South Asian and other global classical arts. Lauded by critics, the festival presents experimental performances that blend poetry, music, and painting into cohesive artistic expressions.
The festival has attracted a diverse audience by showcasing a range of cultural presentations. One standout event, Saudha Songs of Sringar & Seduction & Frida Kahlo Through Indian Classic Music, held at the Royal Albert Hall, was highly praised by ethnomusicologists and literary experts in Leeds and beyond.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Saudha brought together musicians, writers, poets, artists, and directors from around the world via social media platforms. These sessions were well-received by global audiences.
The festival, curated by poet Ahmed Kaysher, offers the chance to enjoy poetry readings and meditative music amidst scenic woodland and lakeside settings—all for free.
Fascinating Facts About Leeds Festivals
Leeds is home to a variety of festivals, each with unique traditions and histories. Notable events include the Reading and Leeds Festivals, which occur simultaneously in both cities. These music festivals take place annually in August over the bank holiday weekend, spanning Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
First held in 1961 as the National Jazz Festival, the event has been a regular feature in Leeds since 1999. Over the years, performers have faced audience protests in the form of bottles and cans being thrown on stage—a practice that has, unfortunately, targeted well-known artists like Bonnie Tyler and The Rasmus.
Leeds provides opportunities to relax, learn, connect, and enjoy through its festivals, including free events. Attending these celebrations broadens horizons and delivers unforgettable experiences. As a well-rounded city, Leeds showcases vibrant events filled with memorable moments.