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.
43. In Colour Festival (October 24)
An all-day indie and post-punk showcase across both rooms, headlined by Squid (pictured) alongside Ugly, Theatre, and 1000 Rabbits.🎟️ Brudenell Social Club | JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images
44. The Wedding Present & Desperate Journalist (October 24)
David Gedge's iconic Leeds indie stalwarts take over the Academy alongside acclaimed post-punk openers Desperate Journalist. 🎟️ O2 Academy Leeds
45. Steve Backshall’s Deadly Live! (October 25)
Naturalist and TV host Steve Backshall brings wildlife, exploration, and live stunt displays to the arena floor. 🎟️ First Direct Bank Arena
46. Korn (October 26)
Nu-metal pioneers hit Arena Way on their Euro Tour 2026, supported by UK metal titans Architects and Youth Code. 🎟️ First Direct Bank Arena | Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Ima
47. The Mary Wallopers (October 27)
The popular Irish folk-punk group bring their rowdy, raucous live show to the Academy stage. 🎟️ O2 Academy Leeds
48. Stornoway (October 29)
Folk-pop favourites return to West Yorkshire for an intimate headline performance at the historic Irish Centre. 🎟️ Leeds Irish Centre | Stornoway