From a night with nineties pop royalty through to a Dragon Boat race - our pick of this month’s happenings
Inner City Electronic - Various, Saturday 2 June
The latest in a packed schedule of Urban Festivals, Inner City Electronic is the brainchild of Ralph Lawson, with a line-up that more than suits the much-esteemed DJ’s taste. Featuring live sets from the likes of Floating Points and Peggy Gou, as well as various talks and masterclasses, it’s a must-visit for anyone who enjoys dance music but wants to know more about it - we’re particularly keen on events by local faves Cosmic Slop and Equaliser.
Steps Party at The Cinema - Everyman Cinema, Monday 4 June
Love a little nineties guilty pleasure? Get yourself down to the Everyman Cinema for a screening of the latest Steps concert movie, Party on the Dancefloor. Beamed direct into Leeds in real time from the London premiere, you’ll get to watch the show with a cheeky cocktail in hand, and enjoy a Q&A with the band by daytime TV royalty Rylan after the show. It’s not quite as good as a real concert, but it’s a ‘tragedy’ to miss out (sorry).
Itu World Triathlon - Various, 9-10 June
Returning to Leeds for the third time, nearly 5000 athletes will descend upon the city in June to cycle, swim and run their way to glory. Registration for athletes has now closed, but there are still plenty of ways to get involved, from volunteering as a steward to cheering along the racers as they compete at Roundhay Park, Millennium Square and The City Centre. Inspiring stuff.
Jay Som - Brudenell Social Club, Monday 11 June
Before she heads out on as US tour with emo-pop faves Paramore, Jay Som will be stopping off at the Brudenell for a headline show of her own. Just 22, the low fi-loving soloist is already making waves with her record Everybody Works; a delicate but defiant rumination on relationships, disassociation and public transport. The perfect gig for a post-work wind down.
Wicked - Grand Theatre & Opera House, 13 June – 7 July
We’ve whinged for years, and they’ve finally heard our cries – multi-award-winning musical Wicked is finally coming to Leeds for a run of 20 shows. With tickets starting at just £20, the spin-off story of The Wizard of Oz is chockfull of seminal singalongs, making it the perfect summer holiday family treat.
Ghostface Killah - Belgrave Music Hall, Friday 15 June
An undisputed legend of hip-hop, Ghostface Killah’s work within Wu Tang Clan has influenced many of today’s biggest names. See what all the fuss is about on one of his smallest shows to date, kicking off at Belgrave Music Hall from 8pm. Just enough time to grab a slice of pizza or three…
Undergraduate Degree Show - University of Leeds, 15-22 June
A great opportunity to discover a new generation of talent, the School of Design will be opening its doors to showcase the work of the over 200 graduating students; encompassing everything from contemporary graphic design to intricate knitted textiles. Leeds’ Arts University will also be hosting an end-of-year exhibition; with a chance to buy prints, cards, stationery and artwork at an Art Market on Blenheim Walk from 9-14 June (cash only).
The Great Yorkshire Vegan Festival - Leeds Town Hall, 16-17 June
Voted the UK’s favourite event of its kind, the Yorkshire vegan festival has plenty to fill faces and fridges. Alongside your usual vegan burgers, confectionaries and cupcakes, ethical shoppers can also browse clothing and cosmetics, as well as learning more about animal welfare and sustainable diets in the talk sessions. Stall space is still available, making this the perfect place for any aspiring ethical business owner to dip their toe into trading too.
Leeds Vintage Furniture Flea - Chapel Allerton Primary School, Sunday 17 June
Prefer your Ercol to your Ikea? Get your home Pinterest-worthy on a budget thanks to the award-winning team at the Leeds Furniture Flea. The full trader list is still to be confirmed, but you can expect sideboards, wicker chairs, ceramics and home accessories galore, as well as a guest spot from sumptuous confectioners Doh’nut.
David Baddiel: My Family Not The Sitcom - City Varieties, 22-23 June
With World Cup Fever high in the air, it seems only that David Baddiel of Three Lions fame would be embarking on a national tour. However, this run of shows sees him discuss something very different indeed; his relationship with his family, namely his ‘ late sex-mad mother, Sarah, and dementia-ridden father, Colin.’ Widely acclaimed after its West-End run, it has been celebrated for its candour and humour.
Yoga and Wellness festival - Leeds Dock, 22-24 June
Yoga Hero’s flagship festival has cemented itself as a hub for physical wellbeing that caters to all ability levels. Whether you’re a spiritual guru or a couch potato looking to indulge in some self-care, the weekend covers topics and activities ranging from mindful eating and body positivity to the rather risky-sounding ‘blindfolded yoga’. We best get our leggings on…
Radio Aire’s Dragon Boat Race - Leeds Dock, Saturday 23 June
A favourite of Leeds families, the Radio Aire Dragon Boat Race rides again on 23 June, this time joined by a variety of ‘Waterfront Weekend’ activities. Fork out the £292 entry fee to race your own boat, or simply soak up some Leeds sunshine while you watch the city dog show, try out some tasty titbits from nominees of the British Street Food Awards or flex your guns in the Leeds Strongest person competition. It doesn’t get much more wholesome than this.
Thai Khrim - Trinity Kitchen, All month
Back by popular demand, Thai Khrim is ice cream like you’ve never seen it before. Frozen in thin slices and then curled upon itself, Mr Whippy this certainly ain’t. Choose from tons of different flavour combinations and watch the Instagram likes roll in – ours is a mango and coconut please.
Flight of the Conchords - Leeds Arena, Sunday 24 June
The rescheduled Flight of the Conchords shows finally go ahead this month. Having shot to fame with their cult TV show, fans can expect a unique blend of music and comedy from Jermaine and Bret, parodying some familiar genres with that undeniable New Zealand charm. Will we be treated to a rendition of ‘Hiphopopotamus vs. Rhymenoceros’? There’s only one way to find out…
Harlies' opening - Assembly Street, Date TBC
If your summer budget doesn’t quite extend to a trip to the US, a visit to the newly-opening Harlie’s Diner may be the next big thing. Situated right behind the Corn Exchange, the specific opening date is still to be confirmed, but the menu has us just about ready to bang down the doors - Bourbon BBQ beef patties, peanut butter waffles and ‘hallouminati’ burgers of a size that’ll challenge Meat Liquor or Almost Famous.
