The best things to do in and around Leeds this week | 5 – 11 December 2022
It’s the first full week of December so that means that the Christmas countdown is well and truly on.
Congratulations everyone, we have made it all in one piece (just) to the last month of the year.
December is all about getting together with family, friends and celebrating the year that’s just past. So let’s kick off the month as we mean to go on by having an epic week jam packed with a flurry of festivities (and football).
From Christmas markets to food tours to brilliant new openings, there’s so much to get stuck into in and around the city. Let’s take a look.
Leeds Food Tours: Christmas Special
Sunday 4 December 2022 | Around Leeds city centre
Championing Leeds independents, this is a walking foodie tour that’ll have you learning about new favourites and old-familiar food and drink spots around the city centre. For those that have previously been on one of Leeds Food Tours before, founder Ellen Miller has ensured that each of the Christmas stops will be at completely different- so it’s a great chance to check out some new spots without repeating yourself.
In total the tour lasts four hours and involves stopping at six different locations across Leeds city centre, spanning a total walking length of 1.4 miles.
Find out more here.
SALT Calls Landing Opening
Friday 9 December 2022 | Calls Landing, Leeds city centre
SALT Calls Landing will be taking over the Stew & Oyster spot below tapas hotspot Ambiente Tapas Bar. Steeped in industrial heritage, this much-loved Leeds location effortlessly combines the tranquility of the canal’s still waters with an incredible atmosphere that’ll get your weekend started in no time.
Picture a brick-built venue with original steel columns, oak flooring and low ceilings that creates a truly unique space that’s welcoming and intimate without losing that sociable atmosphere that’s loved at SALT bars.
Find out more here.
Stick Man Live
Wednesday 7 December – Saturday 31 December 2022 | Leeds Playhouse
This touching and funny adaptation of Julie Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man is coming to Leeds for the festive season. The heartfelt children’s story follows the journey of a wooden stick who becomes separated from his family home and embarks on an Odyssey-like adventure to return there.
The production will showcase three fantastic actors whom will perform an array of puppetry, live music and funky dance moves. The play will run for 55 minutes and is aimed at children aged 2+, making it the perfect afternoon of fun for all the family.
Find out more here.
Bad Boy Chiller Crew
Saturday 10 December 2022 | Mana Nightclub, Bradford
The Yorkshire lads began as a group that uploaded comedy and prank videos online before shooting to fame in 2020, becoming a huge lockdown success. Since then, they have been nominated for both the NME Award for Best New British Act and NME Award for Best New Act in the World, releasing album Disrespectful alongside EP Charva Anthems and a number of hit singles. Before heading on their UK tour next year, you can catch BBCC in their hometown Bradford.
Tickets cost £22.25 each (£20 plus the booking fee), and there’s VIP packages for uo to eight people for £550.25 available too.
Get tickets for Bad Boy Chiller Crew at Mana Nightclub here.
Watch the 2022 World Cup Quarter Finals
Friday 10 – Saturday 11 December 2022 | Around Leeds city centre
We have absolutely loved watching the World Cup so far, and it’s getting pretty serious as of this week with two big games on the horizon. The Netherlands are taking on Argentina on Friday and England will be going head to head with France on Saturday.
Not sure of where to watch the games? Don’t worry, we’ve put together a list of all the best spots in and around the city to cheer on the boys amongst like-minded fans. Have a read of our guide here.
The Big Leeds Santa Dash
Sunday 11 December 2022 | Leeds city centre
Running round dressed as Santa Claus seems like a lot of fun, but knowing it’s for a great cause makes this fun run a 5k to remember. The Big Leeds Santa Dash is back for another year to raise money for St Gemma’s Hospice, and there’s still time to get yourself a Santa suit and book yourself a place at the starting line.
Find out more here.
Corn Exchange Christmas Market
Friday 9 – Sunday 11 December 2022 | Corn Exchange, Leeds city centre
Luckily for us, Rolling Social Events, the brains behind the legendary Leeds Rum Fest, Leeds Whisky Fest, and Leeds Tequila Fest are returning to Leeds Corn Exchange for the 2022 Christmas Market. Think a host of independent stalls to snap up your Christmas pressies from, a range of delicious food offerings from local chefs and all in the most beautiful building in Leeds. Sounds good? We think so too.
Find out more here.
Charlie and The Chocolate Factory: The Musical
Tuesday 6 – Saturday 10 December 2022 | Leeds Playhouse, Quarry Hill
Roald Dahl’s devilishly delicious tale of young golden ticket winner Charlie Bucket and wild confectionary wizard Willy Wonka will take you to a world of pure imagination this festive season. Charlie and The Chocolate Factory – The Musical features memorable songs from the iconic 1970s film as well as a host of sensational new tastebud-tickling, tummy-rumbling, toe-tappers.
Find out more here.
Millenium Square Ice Cube
All week | Millenium Square, Leeds city centre
Taking centre stage on Millennium Square, the 400 sqm real ice rink will feature a transparent marquee-styled roof to ensure sessions can take place whatever the weather. And with it comes a string of exciting attractions and stalls which will set up shop in the nearby Victoria Gardens and Cookridge Street. Including a family funfair where thrill-seekers can climb aboard the 30m high Star Flyer or check out the North Pole Funhouse alongside a selection of Children’s’ festive themed rides and games.
Find out more here.
All week | Bundobust, Mill Hill
It’s officially the festive season and with that comes Christmas specials aplenty popping up around the city. Indian Street Food favourite Bundobust are of course getting in on the action, and we could not be more excited about it.
From Sprout Bhajis to Mince Pie Parathas, there’s something for everyone to tuck into on this new festive fuelled menu. Built for the party with it’s beer hall style interior and a food menu made for sharing, it really is the perfect place to gather with friends, family or colleagues to cheers to the festivities.
Read all about it here.