What's Coming In 2026

2026 is almost here, bringing a brand‑new year of fun across the Bradford district, packed with amazing events, sensational shows and family‑friendly activities. As you finish the last mince pie and gear up for the New Year’s celebrations, here’s a taste of what awaits in Bradford — the perfect inspiration for planning your next visit.

Celebrate the new year with The Hallé Orchestra and their annual, traditional New Year’s concert on Sunday, 4^th January at St George’s Hall, Bradford. Stephen Bell will lead the orchestra in a series of classic waltzes, polkas, marches and more.

As winter continues, Bradford’s woolly heritage takes centre stage at the Blaise Wool Festival at the Bradford Industrial Museum on Sunday, 1st February featuring local traders, craft workshops, live music from the Hall Royd Brass Band and fascinating talks and demonstrations.

Later in February gaming fans can immerse themselves in the Yorkshire Games Festival — a brilliant week‑long celebration running from the 11th to the 22nd. There will be something for everyone, including talks and masterclasses by industry experts, board games, new games to beta test and more! You won’t want to miss out on getting involved.

Raise a glass at the Ilkley Beer Festival, taking place on 13th–14th February at the King’s Hall and Winter Garden, where you can sample beers, ciders, wines and more. Stay tuned for the full brewery lineup and enjoy live entertainment as you sip a tasty pint or two.

Spring arrives with music and steam!

Bradford Live, the city’s newly restored entertainment venue, is set for a packed calendar in 2026. Book your tickets to see The Gorillaz at Bradford Live on 13th and 14th March, in a special warm‑up show ahead of their 2026 tour. Expect tracks from their latest album, delivered with the band’s signature blend of music, visuals and energy.

Step aboard the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway from 19th–22nd March for the annual Steam Gala, where engines roar to life in a celebration of heritage travel. The home fleet, joined by special guests, will transport you along the Worth Valley line as you relax to the iconic chuffs and whistles of a steam train.

As the days grow longer, creativity blossoms at the annual Saltaire Arts Trail on 2^nd-4^th May. Whether you’re exploring the open homes and gardens of the historic village, joining activities in the park or picking up some goodies at the maker’s fair, there’s something for everyone at this event.

Celebrate the bank holiday at the Ilkley Carnival on Monday, 4th May with a spectacular parade, thrilling sports matches, lively entertainment and even a delightful dog show. It’s a fantastic day out for the whole family and the perfect chance to discover the beauty of Ilkley.

Fans of Friends can enjoy a nostalgic night at Silsden Town Hall on Saturday, 16th May for The One with the Acoustic Set — a special tribute to the sitcom’s music and Phoebe Buffay’s unforgettable guitar moments. Tickets are on sale now for this light‑hearted and memorable show.

Food lovers are in for a treat as the Ilkley Food and Drink Festival returns on 13th–14th June, brimming with delicious dishes, refreshing drinks and vibrant entertainment. This is a weekend your taste buds will thank you for!

Sports fans can also look forward to the Lexus Ilkley Open Tennis Tournament, taking place from 7th–14th June. This prestigious event attracts top players and rising stars, offering a thrilling week of world‑class tennis in the heart of Ilkley.

Summer shines with major highlights:

The Bradford Literature Festival, a fantastic celebration of the written word, returns this summer from 3rd–12th July. With events, talks, and special guests including musicians, writers, artists and poets — it promises to be another great year for this long‑running festival.

Dragons will surge through the river in Roberts Park, Saltaire once again from 3rd–5th July at the Bradford Dragon Boat Festival. This wonderful charity event offers plenty of action on land and water, with boat races, children’s entertainment, charity stalls, street food, landside games and much more.

As autumn arrives, Heritage Open Days return on 11^th-20^th September, when some of the district’s most historic and iconic buildings open their doors to give you special access, tours and talks to some of these marvels of architecture.

Adding to the season’s highlights, Northern Ballet presents Gentleman Jack at the Alhambra Theatre, Bradford— the extraordinary story of Anne Lister, brought to life through choreography by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa and new live music by Claire Cowan. This thrilling production, inspired by Lister’s secret diaries, offers a powerful celebration of one of Yorkshire’s most remarkable women.

Here we go again – Mamma Mia!, the smash-hit ABBA musical, is heading back to the Alhambra Theatre, Bradford on 10^th-21^st November. Featuring the Swedish supergroup’s greatest hits set against an idyllic romantic comedy backdrop, this is truly an unmissable show.

With so much happening throughout the year, the Bradford district is the place to be in 2026 — start planning your visit now!