After what felt like a very dreary and wet spring, temperatures have finally warmed up over the last few weeks - and we’ve even enjoyed some balmy sunshine. I don’t know about you, but it’s getting me super excited for the next few months in the city.
We’ve got so much to look forward to, from cheering on England to another stellar line-up at Leeds Festival.
Move over Ibiza, here’s 11 reasons why Leeds is the place to be this summer.
7. Leeds West Indian Carnival
Potternewton Park and the streets of Chapeltown will be transformed once again in August with this vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, with food, music and plenty of dancing. It's the biggest event on Leeds' cultural calendar and I'm excited to make my carnival debut this year. | Simon Hulme Photo: Simon Hulme
8. Trips to the seaside
Beach days are coming and many of us will make the drive across the A64 to Yorkshire's stunning east coast. I love the buzz of Scarborough in the summer, but there's plenty of lesser-known beauty spots to enjoy too, such as Saltburn-by-the-Sea. | Tony Johnson Photo: Tony Johnson
9. Leeds Waterfront Festival
I first stumbled across this festival when I lived near Leeds Dock, and it's become one of my favourite events of the year. The annual dragon boat race, where groups compete with furious paddling, is hilarious - and the street food is bang on every year. It's a great festival for all the family. | Steve Riding Photo: Steve Riding
10. Weddings
I had my first hen do earlier this month and it's got me so excited for the wedding season ahead. I'll be celebrating three weddings this year - and we're lucky to have gorgeous wedding venues surrounding Leeds. | fesenko - stock.adobe.com Photo: fesenko - stock.adobe.com
11. Leeds Pride
And finally, it's going to be a big year for Leeds Pride, which is taking place in July this year. The plans include a bigger licensed area, which will mean more bars for people to enjoy a drink, and there's going to be new stages too. Sonique, Louisa Johnson and a Madonna tribute act on the line-up? Count me in. | Leeds Pride Photo: Leeds Pride