Looking for the best festivals in Yorkshire this summer? From major music events and literary celebrations to local food fairs and family-friendly shows, Yorkshire’s 2025 festival calendar is packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a local seeking weekend inspiration or a visitor eager to explore the region, this guide brings together the top festivals happening across Yorkshire in the summer of 2025. With events taking place in vibrant cities, picturesque towns, and scenic countryside locations, there's something for every interest and age group. Plan your summer around these standout events and enjoy the very best that Yorkshire has to offer.
Music and Arts Festivals
Leeds Festival
Location: Bramham Park, Leeds
Dates: 21 to 24 August 2025
Website: https://www.leedsfestival.com/
One of the UK’s most iconic music events, Leeds Festival returns with a diverse lineup covering rock, pop, hip hop, and electronic music. Known for its electric atmosphere and major headline acts, this is a must-attend for music lovers.
Tramlines Festival
Location: Hillsborough Park, Sheffield
Dates: 25 to 27 July 2025
Website: https://tramlines.org.uk/
Sheffield’s biggest outdoor music festival features a packed weekend of live music, comedy, street food, and family entertainment. Expect performances from top UK artists alongside rising stars.
Slam Dunk Festival
Location: Temple Newsam, Leeds
Date: 25 May 2025
Website: slamdunkfestival.com
This one-day festival is a favourite for fans of punk, emo, ska, and alternative rock. Featuring internationally renowned bands, it’s a high-energy celebration of alternative music.
Goodlife Festival
Location: Harewood House, Leeds
Date: 28 June 2025
Website: https://goodlife-festival.co.uk/
New for 2025, Goodlife Festival brings together legendary music acts such as Happy Mondays and Soul II Soul, with great food and a boutique festival vibe in the stunning grounds of Harewood House.
Beverley Folk Festival
Location: Various venues in Beverley
Dates: 20 to 22 June 2025
Website: https://www.beverleyfolk.com/
This long-running folk festival celebrates traditional and contemporary folk music, spoken word, and arts across a range of intimate venues in the historic market town of Beverley.
Cultural and Literary Festivals
Bradford Literature Festival
Location: Various venues across Bradford
Dates: 27 June to 6 July 2025
Website: https://www.bradfordlitfest.co.uk/
A vibrant and inclusive ten-day festival celebrating books, ideas, and storytelling. With hundreds of events including talks, workshops, and performances, it brings together voices from literature, politics, music, and culture.
Harrogate International Festivals
Location: Harrogate
Dates: 17 to 20 July 2025
Website: https://harrogateinternationalfestivals.com/
Home to the world-famous Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, Harrogate International Festivals offer a programme of author events, live performances, and cultural experiences.
Community and Family-Friendly Festivals
Leeds West Indian Carnival
Location: Chapeltown, Leeds
Date: 25 August 2025
Website: https://leedscarnival.co.uk/
One of the oldest Caribbean carnivals in Europe, this event combines vibrant costumes, live music, and a joyful parade that celebrates Caribbean culture and heritage in the heart of Leeds.
Scorton Feast Memorial 10K
Location: Scorton, North Yorkshire
Dates: 17 August 2025
Website: https://runabc.co.uk/scorton-feast-memorial-10k
This is a multi-terrain 10K around the beautiful setting of Scorton Lakes. This is a flat course and the race will be timed. All runners will get a hot drink and cake and prizes will be awarded after the race.
Tractor Fest
Location: Newby Hall, near Ripon
Dates: 7 to 8 June 2025
Website: https://tractorfest.uk/
The largest vintage tractor and engine show in the UK, Tractor Fest is a great family day out with vehicle displays, craft stalls, food vendors, and children’s activities.
Food and Drink Festivals
Filey Food Festival
Location: Filey, North Yorkshire
Dates: 7 to 8 June 2025, August 9-10, and October 11-12
Website: https://tractorfest.uk/
This popular seaside event brings together local producers offering artisan food, baked goods, cheeses, craft beers, and more. A great way to sample Yorkshire’s culinary delights.
Yorkshire Dales Food & Drink Festival
Location: Funkirk Farm, Skipton, North Yorkshire
Dates: 18–20 July 2025
Website: https://www.ydfadfw.com/
Celebrity chef demonstrations, artisan markets, live music, family activities, and over 250 exhibitors.
Harrogate Food & Drink Festival
Dates & Locations:
28–29 June 2025: The Stray, Harrogate
23–25 August 2025: Ripley Castle, Harrogate
Website: https://harrogatefoodfestival.com/
Highlights: Interactive tasting experiences, live entertainment, chef demonstrations, and a wide array of food exhibitors.
Ilkley Food & Drink Festival
Dates: 14–15 June 2025
Location: Ilkley Riverside, West Yorkshire
Website: https://ilkleyfoodfestival.com/
Highlights: International street food, live chef demos, artisan markets, live music, kids' cooking classes, and family entertainment.
Temple Newsam Food Festival
Dates: 16–17 August 2025
Location: Temple Newsam Park, Leeds, West Yorkshire
Website: https://templenewsamfoodfestival.com/
Highlights: A new addition for 2025, offering a summertime feast with a variety of food and drink options.
Special Highlight: Bradford City of Culture 2025
Location: Bradford
Dates: Ongoing throughout 2025
Website: https://bradford2025.co.uk/
Bradford has been named the UK City of Culture for 2025 and will host a year-long programme of events, exhibitions, and performances. Highlights include appearances by world-renowned magician Dynamo, a Turner Prize exhibition, and innovative musical collaborations that reflect the city’s diverse communities.
Make the Most of Yorkshire’s Festival Season
From live music under the sun to hearty feasts in picture-perfect villages, Yorkshire’s summer festivals are bursting with culture, fun, and local charm. Whether you’re up for a weekend adventure or just fancy something special nearby, these events are your ticket to unforgettable summer moments in 2025. Don’t forget to check the festival websites for the latest updates and tickets—time to get planning!
