What's On In September

As the schools return this September, the whole district is getting ready for class—with history, literature, film and art all on the lesson plan thanks to a brilliant line-up of cultural happenings. With signs of autumn beginning to show, it’s a great time to explore what’s on across Bradford. Take a look at the highlights below and get ready to see the district in a whole new light.

Start the month with delicious food and drink as Real Markets head to the brand-new Darley Street Market in Bradford on Saturday, 6th September. The best fresh, local produce will be on hand, from vegetables to baked goods with plenty of tasty street food to tempt you too.

Head to the annual Keighley and District Agricultural Show at King George V Fields on Saturday, 6th September. Check out the entries in the competitions, watch fantastic live entertainment, create your own handicrafts and much, much more on this well-loved family day out.

Delight in the wonderful and varied artworks of the Open Exhibition at Ilkley Manor House from 6th September-12th October. In collaboration with Ilkley Arts, they’ll be displaying contemporary art from around the country united by the theme of Connection.

Discover the Story of the Methodist Modern Art Collection at Bradford Cathedral on Wednesday, 10th September. This fascinating lecture takes you through the history of the collection, starting from its beginnings when religious art was flourishing in post-war Britain.

Heritage Open Days are back! From 12th-21st September some of the district's historic locations are throwing their doors open for a series of fabulous, free events, letting you take a rare behind-the-scenes look at some incredible places. Some of the locations taking part this year include NT East Riddlesden Hall, Ilkley Manor House, Bradford Playhouse and Victoria Hall.

Lace up your walking boots for the Keighley Walking Festival. From 13th-27th September you can follow a variety of routes that will take you through towns and countryside to some stunning sights. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, there's something for everyone.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Saltaire from 13th–21st September for the Saltaire Festival. Across nine days, the village comes alive with electrifying live music, captivating art exhibitions, and family-friendly fun. Start by exploring the charming open gardens on 13th and 14th September, then follow the pop-up piano trail from 12th to 14th as melodies drift through the village streets. From 19th–21st September browse the bustling continental market and soak up the vibrant festival atmosphere.

Book your tickets for the unmissable Widescreen Weekend, which returns to the Pictureville Cinema in Bradford from 25th-29th September. This year’s festival includes a strand dedicated to Korean cinema, Cinerama screenings and the Dark Knight Trilogy.

Celebrate the written word in Haworth from 26th-28th September at the Brontë Festival of Women’s Writing. The outstanding female wordsmiths who will be the guests of honour at the festival include Tracy Chevalier, Holly Ringland and Oscar-winner Emerald Fennell. Check out the full programme and book your tickets today.

Bradford’s stages come alive with a vibrant mix of shows for every taste. The Alhambra Theatre presents the rip-roaring adventures of Calamity Jane and proves it has the lion’s share of entertainment with a production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. Plus some extra fun for the grown-ups as An Evening of Burlesque Cabaret arrives! Have some gentle laughs at Bingley Arts Centre as The Good Life brings the classic 70s show to the stage. Ilkley Playhouse is butter-side up for the new play Toast from Nigel Slater, meanwhile Kae Kurd brings his latest comedy show to the Studio Theatre.

Music lovers will go nuts when the Beatles' classic White Album is performed on stage at Bradford Live and then it’s time to rock on with all-female tribute Bras N’ Roses at Tapestry Arts in Tong. Angelique Kido arrives at St George’s Hall fresh from the BBC Prom and Sarah McQuaid takes the stage at Ilkley Manor House.

September in Bradford is shaping up to be something special, with a mix of circus, art, poetry and community events as part of its UK City of Culture 2025 programme.

The Beacon at Lister Park runs throughout September, offering performances, workshops, music, and family activities—from Caribbean beats to immersive theatre. From 18^th –21^st September, the BBC Contains Strong Language Festival brings poetry, spoken word, and live broadcasts to venues across Bradford. On Saturday 27^th September, HONK! Bradford brings street bands from around the world to public spaces across the district—including Baildon Farmers Market, East Riddlesden Hall, Haworth Railway Station, Idle Village Green and Roberts Park, with the day culminating in the Big HONK! finale at City Park, Bradford.

Marvel at Bloom, a show-stopping circus performance arriving in the heart of Shipley on 26th–27th September. This large-scale outdoor spectacle celebrates the spirit of Bradford and its people, featuring hundreds of performers—from local movement artists and community choirs to the world-class aerialists of Upswing.

This autumn, Bradford welcomes the acclaimed Turner Prize exhibition at Lister Park from 27th September to 22nd February, showcasing powerful works by shortlisted artists Nnena Kalu, Rene Matić, Mohammed Sami and Zadie Xa. Visitors can explore the exhibition solo or join curated tours—while entry is free, tickets should be booked in advance via the Bradford 2025 website.