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.
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.
31. Beth Orton (October 16)
The BRIT Award-winning folktronica pioneer performs an intimate, career-spanning set inside the Assembly Room. 🎟️ Howard Assembly Room
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32. The Wonder Stuff & Inspiral Carpets (October 16)
The Wonder Stuff & Inspiral Carpets (16 October) 🎟️ O2 Academy Leeds | Laura Renton @ Red Top Images
33. The Undertones & The Beat (October 16)
Classic 70s punk meets 2-Tone ska for a high-energy double header on Armley Road. 🎟️ Project House
34. A Certain Ratio (October 17)
Factory Records post-punk icons celebrate the anniversaries of their classic albums Sextet and Force. 🎟️ Brudenell Social Club | Getty Images
35. Milburn (October 17)
Sheffield indie revival favourites return to Leeds for a major Saturday night headline show, supported by The Rosadocs.🎟️ O2 Academy Leeds | JAC_Media
36. Gurriers (October 17)
Fast-rising Dublin post-punk outfit headline Armley Road following rave reviews across the European festival circuit. 🎟️ Project House