Former Chow Down site to reopen as new Leeds events venue this autumn - with month-long Oktoberfest
’I never expected to find such an incredible open space right on the doorstep of Leeds city centre’
The Temple Arches site, which was home to Chow Down for three years before it closed in 2023, is being transformed into BAR Events Leeds by the team behind Yorkshire-based BAR Events UK.
Chow Down launched at Temple Arches in 2020 as an outdoor food and drink venue and became a regular fixture at the site, hosting food festivals, live music and other events.
BAR Events Leeds will launch this autumn with a month-long Oktoberfest celebration throughout October.
Speaking about the opening, BAR owner Dan Lakin said: "I've been running events for decades, and BAR Events UK has now been creating memorable experiences for over 11 years. During that time we've delivered thousands of weddings, festivals, corporate events and private celebrations across Yorkshire and beyond.
“I'd been looking for the right venue where we could create something permanent, hosting regular public events as well as private functions. I never expected to find such an incredible open space right on the doorstep of Leeds city centre, and when this opportunity came up I knew I had to take it.”
Situated a short walk from Leeds Station, the site will feature a giant teepee beer hall complete with live Oompah bands, German street food and a bar serving traditional two-pint steins.
The venue will open to the public on Friday, October 2, before opening every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout October.
There will be one session on Thursdays and Fridays and two sessions each Saturday and Sunday.
Tickets for Oktoberfest at BAR Events Leeds are available from £5 via Skiddle.
Oktoberfest will be followed by a calendar of themed pop-up events throughout the year, with the venue also available for private celebrations, corporate events and community gatherings.
Founder Dan Lakin added: “Oktoberfest is just the start. We've got lots of exciting ideas planned for the site over the coming months, and we're looking forward to creating a venue that people return to again and again.
“Whether it's a night out with friends, a corporate event or a private celebration, we hope BAR Events Leeds becomes somewhere the city can really enjoy."