Leeds Gig Guide: What's coming up in the city on Mad Friday and the last weekend before Christmas?
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There is a unique atmosphere settling over Leeds this week.
On one hand, we are bracing for the inevitable whirlwind of “Mad Friday” —that infamous night where office parties spill into the streets, the "Queen of Bassline" Big Ang takes over Freedom Mills for its final ever rave, and the city’s bars prepare for their busiest shift of the year.
But beneath the festive chaos, there is a distinct sense of "the calm before the storm."
As we look toward 2026, the landscape of Leeds is set to shift significantly. With Live at Leeds taking a fallow year to recharge and massive new spectacles like the Roundhay Festival looming on the horizon, this weekend feels like a poignant final hurrah for the city's music scene as we currently know it.
Whether you're joining the Mad Friday masses or seeking a quieter moment of reflection before the new year’s transition begins, here is your guide to navigating the music and the city before Christmas arrives next week.
This weekend’s concert highlights
Darts - Brudenell Social Club (Friday)
A legendary nine-strong doo-wop group known for tight harmonies and high-energy stage shows. They’ll be performing their string of 70s and 80s hits, including "Daddy Cool" and "The Boy from New York City".
Sadly, though, for late-comers - this show has sold out in advance - but as ever, keep an eye out on social media in the event a limited number of tickets may go on offer.
Eva Kiss - Hyde Park Book Club (Saturday)
Described as "the soul of grunge from West Yorkshire," Eva Kiss headlines an all-female showcase. Expect a stripped-back, powerful set on the venue's acoustic piano, blending spiky alternative sounds with socially critical lyrics.
Endorphinmachine - Brudenell Social Club (Saturday)
A nine-piece tribute act widely regarded as one of the tightest live bands around. They meticulously recreate the Prince experience, from the high notes and funky basslines to the live horns, covering everything from 1999 and Purple Rain to 90s hits.
Martin Kemp: Back To The 80’s Xmas Special - The Old Woollen, Farsley (Sunday)
Spandau Ballet legend Martin Kemp returns for a festive edition of his massively popular DJ set. He’ll be swapping his bass for turntables to spin non-stop 80s anthems mixed with "Christmas crackers".
Much like the situation with Darts, this event has sold out - but keep an eye out for those last-minute limited number of tickets that may occur shortly before the show.
Leeds Gig Guide - What’s on December 19 - December 21?
Those are our highlights - but what else is on offer in the city this weekend?
Friday
- Darts – Brudenell Social Club (Sold Out)
- Fell Out Boy, The Black Charade, Ultimate Green Day, and Meteora – O2 Academy Leeds (tickets)
- Kill the Silence and Static Caravan – Wharf Chambers (£5 on the door - Wharf Chambers membership required)
- Shaun Dean, Big Ang, and Trilla Trilloski – Freedom Mills (tickets)
- VENTAH – Society Leeds (tickets)
Saturday
- Nirvana UK, Smashed In Pumpkins, and Pearl Scam – O2 Academy Leeds (tickets)
- Hitlist, Miserabilia, Hooligan, Patience, Cateyes, Slappstikk, and hazel.mp3 – Boom (tickets)
- Olivia Graham – St John the Evangelist Church (tickets)
- Endorphinmachine – Brudenell Social Club (tickets)
- Eva Kiss, Robyn Mcleod, RUNA and Pick The Flowers – Hyde Park Book Club (tickets)
- Zen, Hunter, Dialect, Nastee Boi, and Deeno – Fusion Bar & Cocktail Lounge (tickets)
Sunday
Do you have an event in Leeds coming up you’d like included in our weekly weekend gig guide? Drop the writer of this article an email with the acts, venue and ticketing details for inclusion in our forthcoming gig listings.