Bradford continues to shine as a beacon of culture in 2025, with its official status as the UK’s City of Culture offering more brilliant events as the weather gets warmer.
With the sun shining, it’s the perfect time to get out and about in Bradford to check out some of the incredible activities taking place, be it at Wibsey Park with younger family members or a chance to take in some cinematic goodness at Cannon Mills’ drive-in theatre.
That’s on top of St George’s Hall being taken over by orchestras, EDM DJs and an utter plethora of events at the pop up Loading Bay location - exclusive to Bradford2025.
We’ve rounded up 39 of the events and exhibitions taking place across April and May that are worth your time - and even travelling from afar to Bradford. Tickets and more information about the events are available through the Bradford2025 website.
But what’s caught our eye at the City of Culture in the next two months?
19. Say It As It Is (April 22)
The Beacon at Wibsey Park will host Say It As It Is; an open mic night for spoken word, poetry, storytelling, rap, and music.. Hosted by Kirsty Taylor, this event aims to create a space for bold voices and truth-telling, emphasizing shared stories and community connection. | Karol Wyszynski
20. Simon Boccanegra (April 24 & 26)
Opera North will perform Verdi’s drama Simon Boccanegra at St George’s Hall. The opera tells the story of a former pirate who becomes head of state and his complex relationship with a nobleman, exploring themes of power, rivalry, and reconciliation. | Opera North
21. Little Wimmin (April 24 and 25)
Loading Bay will present Figs in Wigs' live art, feminist adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel Little Women. This production uses humour and irreverence to dismantle traditional theatre and explore themes related to climate change, astrology and the universe. | Rose Collins
22. Tower of Now (From April 26)
A 15-meter sculpture by artist Saad Qureshi will be installed in Hall Ings, Bradford city centre. The sculpture pays tribute to Bradford’s cultural diversity, incorporating architectural features from around the globe and showcasing Qureshi’s intricate woodwork on a large scale. | Bradford2025
23. Sticky Dance (April 27)
Second Hand Dance will perform Sticky Dance at The Beacon at Wibsey Park. This performance invites the audience to interact with dancers and sticky tape, exploring the relationship between movement, sound, and space. | Foteini Christofilopoulou
24. Lay Down Your Burdens (April 29-30)
Rhiannon Faith’s dance theatre show will be performed at The Beacon at Wibsey Park. Set in a local pub, the show explores themes of humanity and community through physical performance, testimonials, live music, and pub games. | Bradford2025