This year's Leeds Festival is shaping up to be another belter as even more acts have been added to the R&L lineup for 2025.
While the biggest named heading to Reading and Leeds has already been confirmed, with the second wave having officially dropped back in February, the annual music and culture festival has now released a third.
More than 80 additional artists have been added to the Leeds Fest lineup this summer, with the return of The Aux Stage, as well as a flurry of other famous names from the entertainment world.
We have a feeling this year is going to be another turn up for the books.
Announced on Friday, 20 June, former Little Mix star turned solo artist Leigh-Anne joins the likes of Skye Newman, Waterparks, Demae, Still Woozy, Bartees Strange and more gracing the R&L fields.
Leeds also has the exclusive bonus of being the only city that gets to see rising British-Malaysian alt pop star, Chloe Qisha, who is making some serious waves here in the UK.
Perhaps the most exciting action, we would argue, is once again taking place over on the BBC Introducing stage, formerly playing to host everyone from Ed Sheeran and Bombay Bicycle Club to the likes of Wunderhorse, more recently.
On the subject of ever-growing post-punk and grungey, guitar-driven bands, another name playing that very same stage has caught attention: Keo, who have already been dubbed 'the next Wunderhorse.'
Nxdia, Brummy boys Overpass, and Sunday are other ones to try and make time for if you can, and there's even an extended list of non-music acts, including US comedian and social media personality, Brittany Broski (debut), as well as JaackMaate’s Happy Hour podcast.
Speaking on the third wave, Melvin Benn - Managing Director of Festival Republic - said: "Reading & Leeds never stands still. We’re always listening to the audience and thinking of how to deliver the value and experiences that they demand."
"This summer, we’re adding a new underground electronic stage at both sites and boosting our late-night offering for those who want to dance into the early hours...
"Our free, overhauled camping options are also really resonating. With nearly half of Leeds weekend ticket holders having already signed up and Reading close behind, our investment in elevating what general camping at UK festivalscan be is paying off."
"To have a weekend with historic headline moments like Chappell Roan, alongside emerging talent and influential voices, I am proud of R&L’s continued development, and I can’t wait to see fans embracing it all."
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Art & Culture
A breathtaking giant sculpture of the sun has arrived in Yorkshire for the summer
Clementine Hall
A giant model of the sun is now illuminated in Wakefield.
The sun has arrived in Wakefield… and we’re not just referring to that one that’s popped up in the sky at long last (sort of).
We’re taking about Helios, the amazing art installation that’s about to stop off at Wakefield Exchange as it tours around the UK.
Created by renowned artist, Luke Jerram, the beautiful art piece measures a whopping seven-metres in diameter and has been created using images captured by NASA.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Helios builds on the success of Luke Jerram’s previous installations in Wakefield, including the hugely popular Museum of the Moon.
With its striking scale and rich scientific detail, the artwork provides a safe and captivating way to encounter the Sun up close, highlighting everything from solar flares to the phenomena that created the unforgettable Northern Lights visible across the UK in 2024.
Stepping beneath the breathtaking glowing sculpture, audiences can experience an atmospheric fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially commissioned surround‑sound composition that brings the science and mystery of our nearest star vividly to life.
Alongside the striking sun instillation, Wakefield Exchange will present a full programme of free, family‑friendly, space‑themed activities throughout the summer.
Visitors can enjoy hands‑on workshops, creative crafts, dressing‑up sessions and playful drop‑in experiences.
Helios will be hosted by Wakefield Exchange from Friday 12 June until Sunday 6 September 2026, and you can find out more here on their website.
Danny Jones -
20th June 2025 
