Things to see and do in Leeds this Autumn

Autumn is the season for all things cosy and colourful in the city of Leeds, and this year is no exception. Whether visiting for a night for a conference or staying a little longer to take part in an exhibition or event, there’s plenty coming up for delegates to enjoy in the city. In fact, the city is set to come alive with light, art and food and drink this Autumn – and there are a number of unmissable events that you’ll love.

Take a look at some of the recommendations we have for things to see and do in Leeds this Autumn.

Dracula at Northern Ballet
Get ready to be immersed in an experience that’s bound to terrify and captivate in equal measure! During October 2019, the talented team at Northern Ballet have brought to life the story of Bram Stoker’s Dracula in ballet form, in a blend of sensuous dancing and gripping theatre enhanced by gothic sets and costumes. This show challenges all pre-conceptions of ballet, and provides a truly different experience. Taking place between the 29th of October and the 2nd of November, tickets are available on the Leeds Playhouse website.

Destruction to Construction
The recent Emerald Headingley Stadium redevelopment is the latest evolution in the history of the iconic sporting venue, and Joe Bean has documented it in a wonderful way. The exhibition, Destruction to Construction, brings to life sketches drawn from the developing site over an 18 month period – using soft inks and watercolours to bring beauty to the construction. The result will give you a feel for the sheer size of the project and a glimpse of how this world-class venue was created, and will be interesting whether you’re attending a conference or event at the stadium or just have an interest in seeing how projects like this advance. Destruction to Construction comes to Coffee on the Crescent from Friday 4th October to Thursday 7th November 2019.

Leeds Kirkgate Vegan Market
For those looking to enjoy new food experiences this Autumn, Kirkgate Outdoor Market will be hosting the Leeds Vegan Market for the first time this year. The event will see over 50 vendors bring stalls filled with everything vegan a person could wish for – from food and drink, through to handmade cosmetics, ethical clothing and lifestyle products. Leeds Vegan Market takes over Leeds Kirkgate Market every month, after kicking off in September.

Bonfire Night fireworks displays
It’s time to grab your hat, scarf and gloves and head over to one of Leeds’ many parks to see a wealth of colourful fireworks in celebration of Bonfire Night. This traditional event is taking place in a number of parks around the city on the 4th of November, and each of them have a fire and fireworks display for visitors to enjoy.

Bramley Park (bonfire lit at 7pm, fireworks at 7.30pm)
East End Park (bonfire lit at 7pm, fireworks at 7.30pm)
Middleton Park (bonfire lit at 7pm, fireworks at 7.30pm)
Roundhay Park (bonfire lit at 7.30pm, fireworks at 8pm)
Woodhouse Manor (bonfire lit at 7pm, fireworks at 7.30pm)

Thought Bubble Festival at Leeds Dock
For those who love art and, more specifically, superhero comics, there’s an annual event taking place this Autumn which will be perfect for you! There’s a festival and accompanying two day convention taking place on Leeds Dock, which includes an incredible line-up of leading comic book artists and writers, as well as portfolio viewings, competitions and a cosplay parade. This is the UK’s largest festival of its kind, and unmissable for those who are interested in these art forms.

Leeds International Film Festival
In 1888, the world’s first moving images were created in Leeds. Today, Leeds is a leading centre for film culture. From the 6th to the 23rd of November 2019, to mark 30 years of this creative film festival, there will be a city-wide celebration of global filmmaking, with 300 events held at 30 venues around the city, including independent cinemas, music halls and universities. The Oscar and BAFTA qualifying Leeds International Film Festival (LIFF) is the largest film event for audiences in England outside of London, and will present unreleased films from the UK, Europe and around the world this year – supporting new filmmaking talent.

The Witches at Leeds Playhouse
In another example of excellent theatre taking place in Leeds, the recently refurbished Leeds Playhouse will be bringing to life Roald Dahl’s book The Witches, with a Christmas twist. The show is different from traditional Christmas stories, and families are encouraged to go along to what is sure to be a tremendously terrifying treat for everyone. Directed by Nikolai Foster, The Witches features a talented cast of actors, musicians and mind-boggling illusions that will leave you flabbergasted long after you’ve left the theatre. Tickets are on sale now for showings taking place between the 2nd and the 21st of December. If you can’t wait that long to get involved in the action, you can play this online game created for the show – which will show you what spell The Witches will cast on you!