In fact, it’s not just music festivals alone that make up some of the biggest events and carnivals taking place in the city across the next twelve months either.
There is something for every discipline, every fandom, and every "anorak"—from those hunting down rare vinyl at record fairs to film buffs and comic art obsessive.
With Live at Leeds officially on a "gap year," the stage is set for the city's independent, DIY, and heritage festivals to truly shine.
Be it the long-awaited return of Compass Festival following its 2024 instalment, or the Leeds International Film Festival and Leeds Pride celebrating major landmark milestones next year, we’ve pulled together 17 culture-tripping festivals coming to the city in 2026—and not a single one requires a trek to Bramham Park.
13. Chapel Allerton Arts Festival (August 31 – September 6)
The ultimate neighborhood "village" takeover. Entirely volunteer-run, this week-long festival captures the independent spirit of North Leeds with artists' markets, poetry, and community jazz stages. 📍 Regent Street and various Chapel Allerton venues | Steve Riding
14. Leeds International Festival of Ideas (October)
Bold talk and big questions at the city's intellectual powerhouse event. Bringing together global icons to debate the future of everything from technology to modern politics. 📍 Leeds Playhouse, Quarry Hill | Callum Cousin
15. LIFF 2026: 40th Anniversary (November 5–22)
18 days of world-class cinema. The 40th-anniversary edition of LIFF will be a monumental city-wide marathon featuring premieres that often go on to dominate the Oscars and BAFTAs. 📍 Leeds Town Hall, Hyde Park Picture House, and various venues | Leeds International Film Festival
16. Thought Bubble Comic Art Fest (November)
The world-renowned, "creator-first" festival that puts Leeds on the global map. A week-long celebration of storytelling that treats comic art as a serious, world-changing medium. 📍 Leeds citywide and Harrogate Convention Centre | Thought Bubble/Simon Godsave
17. Compass Festival (November)
Interactive, playful art that turns everyday Leeds spaces—from markets to bus stops—into a playground. A biennial festival designed to make you rediscover the beauty in your own city. 📍 Various public spaces and neighbourhoods citywide | Compass Festival on Instagram