Leeds Gig Guide: What's happening in the city the first weekend of 2026?
It’s that weird, "what day is it?" window where the selection boxes are looking a bit depleted and the New Year’s Eve glitter is still turning up in unexpected places.
While the city often feels like it’s collectively nursing a hangover, the usual festive "lull" is actually one of the best times to explore Leeds now that the frantic energy of December has evaporated.
If you’re looking to trade the sofa for something a bit more substantial, the city isn’t exactly shutting up shop. In fact, some of the best nights of the year happen when everyone else is still busy making resolutions they’ll probably break by Tuesday.
Whether you want a high-octane distraction for the kids or a dark, soulful corner of a bar to hide in, there is plenty to get stuck into the first weekend of 2026 in the city.
From the legendary Brudenell to the hidden depths of the Grand Arcade, the first weekend of 2026 is actually looking pretty busy, all things considered.
There’s something deeply satisfying about finding a seat in a packed theatre or a cosy music hall when the rest of the world is still hiding under a duvet - right?
So, before the January routine officially kicks the door down, take a worthwhile trip into the city for one of these outings as Twixmas, and 2025, start to become a distant memory.
This weekend’s highlights
Aladdin: The Rock 'n' Roll Panto (Friday, Saturday and Sunday - City Varieties Music Hall)
This is far from your traditional sit-and-watch pantomime.
A beloved Leeds institution, the City Varieties "Rock 'n' Roll" panto features a multi-talented cast of actor-musicians who perform the entire soundtrack live on stage while delivering the classic gags. It’s a high-octane, instrument-swapping spectacle that brings a concert-like energy to the legendary Swan Street venue—perfect for those who want their festive tradition with a side of electric guitar.
RISE Rumble (Saturday - Brudenell Social Club)
If you’re looking to trade the "panto dame" for a "power slam," the RISE Rumble is the place to be on Saturday night.
Billed as England’s maddest wrestling show, this over-the-top-rope extravaganza turns the iconic Brudenell into a colosseum of stunts, comedy, and sheer adrenaline. Expect a raucous atmosphere where the line between athlete and entertainer is blurred in the most chaotic way possible.
Hair Of The Dog 2026 (Saturday - Brudenell Social Club)
A staple of the Leeds grassroots calendar, Hair Of The Dog is the ultimate remedy for the post-holiday slump.
Presented by the local legends at Cloth Cat, this showcase brings together a line-up of the city’s most uplifting and energetic bands to ensure the New Year starts on a high note. It’s a celebration of the Leeds music community that proves the local scene is thriving long after the Christmas lights have dimmed.
What else is on in Leeds this weekend - December 2 - 4?
Friday
- Suitcase Rags Trio and Soul City Spinners – The Domino Club
- Aladdin: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto - City Varieties Music Hall
Saturday
- Aladdin: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto - City Varieties Music Hall
- RISE Rumble - Brudenell Social Club
- The Harry Orme Trio – The Domino Club
- Brutal Yule – Lending Room
- The Domino House Band – The Domino Club
- Hair Of The Dog 2026 - Brudenell Social Club
Sunday
- Aladdin: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto - City Varieties Music Hall
Do you have an event coming up in Leeds that you’d like included in our regular weekend gig guide? Send the writer of the article an email with the event details for potential inclusion in future concert and event listings in the city.