You may be surprised to learn that Leeds Festival over the August Bank Holiday weekend isn’t the only festival taking place across Yorkshire in 2025.
Spare a thought for some other music festivals taking place across the Yorkshire region that are not merely taking place in Leeds and you soon learn there is a wealth of entertainment coming to areas such as Sheffield, Scarborough and the Yorkshire Dales, with some of which not involving music either - heaven forbid.
For those wanting a little bit of Blues and Americana in your life, the York Blues Festival looks to be your go to, while those looking for a little more refinement have the chance to take in both the Summer and Winter season of events taking place at The Ryedale Festival.
We’ve even included the odd food festival also for the foodies out there chomping at the bit to attend something this year, pun intended.
We’ve taken a look at 23 festivals events taking place in the Yorkshire area throughout 2025 and, while admittedly Leeds, Slam Dunk and Tramlines Festivals are all accounted for, there might be some inspiration to attend something else now some of us are getting a little bit older and less inclined to pogo in the crowd.
Unless you’re attending the Scarborough Punk Festival; then by all means, pogo away!
So what’s caught our attention around the region regarding festivals in Yorkshire? Read on to find out more!
19. Leeds International Film Festival (November 1 - 17 2025)
The Leeds International Film Festival (LIFF) is one of the UK's largest and most respected film festivals, celebrated for its diverse program that spans genres, countries, and cinematic styles. Since its founding, the festival has become a key fixture in Leeds' cultural calendar, showcasing a wide range of independent films, feature-length movies, shorts, and documentaries, with a particular focus on discovering and supporting emerging talent. | Canva
20. Sheffield DocFest (June 18 - 23 2025)
Sheffield DocFest, the UK’s premier documentary festival, is a key global player in the documentary industry, offering a platform for film, television, immersive experiences, and art. Held annually in June, the festival brings together a community to explore creativity, empathy, freedom, inclusivity, and internationalism, while fostering inspiration, debate, and development in the heart of Sheffield. | Canva
21. Dark Skies Festival (February 14 - March 2 2025)
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Dark Skies Festival from February 14 to March 2, 2025, in the stunning Yorkshire Dales. This unique event invites you to explore the beauty of the night sky, free from light pollution, and learn about the universe in one of the UK's most picturesque and tranquil locations. | Provided
22. The Ryedale Festival (July 11 - 27/November 21 - 23 2025)
The Ryedale Festival is a prestigious classical music festival held annually in the picturesque Ryedale district of North Yorkshire. Established in 1981, it has become one of the UK's leading small-scale classical festivals, attracting top-tier musicians and music lovers from around the world. | Provided
23. Harrogate Music Festival
Throughout its history, the Harrogate Music Festival has hosted some of the most distinguished names in music, such as the Hallé Orchestra, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, and celebrated soloists like violinist Nicola Benedetti and pianist Lang Lang. As well as its high-calibre performances, the festival is recognized for its commitment to fostering new talent and supporting young musicians through educational initiatives and outreach programs. | Provided