October in Leeds: Over 50 massive gigs, arena tours, festivals and stage shows to look forward to this month

As the leaves turn and the autumn chill sets in, October is shaping up to be one of the busiest months of the year across Leeds.

Be it blockbuster arena tours or intimate independent venue shows, opera seasons, and Halloween celebrations, there is no shortage of reasons to head out across the city this month.

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The calendar also features major autumn cultural tentpoles, including the Leeds International Festival of Ideas (LIFI 2026) at Leeds Playhouse and the 40th anniversary edition of the Leeds International Film Festival (LIFF) commencing from October 29 - with more to come on those events in the very near future.

Whether you are looking to secure tickets for major venue tours or plan weekend outings, here is your definitive, week-by-week guide to what’s on in Leeds throughout October 2026.