Leeds will be illuminated in neon lights this week, and that can only mean one thing.
The return of Light Night.
As one of the official markers of the autumn season,Light Nightis one of the key calendar events to bring people together across the city and celebrate an array of beautiful installations and pieces of artwork, all of which can only be seen once the skies go dark.
Over atThe Junction, the celebrations will be taken to a whole new level, with an on-site bar serving drinks, live circus performers and street food pop-ups serving delicious grub to get stuck into.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
This has got to be one of the cosiest spots to take in the wonders of Light Night.
The Junction will be a standout location over the two spectacular nights, Thursday 24 and Friday 25 October.
The first installation at, ‘Globoscope’, is a magnificent immersive display of over 200 luminous spheres dotted across the landscape of the gardens. Located over Monk Bridge Viaduct, the light and sound pulse sequences will transform the gardens into a glowy, otherworldly landscape sure to awe visitors.
Image: Supplied
The second art installation, ‘Reflect’, is nestled in The Arches under Monk Bridge Viaduct, and is a mindful and meditative experience where shafts of light dance and bounce off moving water. Guided by an ambient soundtrack, attendees will trail their hands across the water and watch as ripples are reflected off the archway.
Beyond the incredible art instillations, The Junction will also welcome the Roller Girl Gang from 6:30-7:30pm, and Yorkshire Circus, hosting their event ‘Starlight Developing Artist LED Show + LED ‘have-a-go' area’ on the Multi Use Sports Pitch.
Younger visitors (and older, we don't judge) can also get involved with UV Face Painting, ensuring the whole family can take part in the festival fun.
Local Leeds traders Neighbourhood Fried Chicken and The Savvy Baker will be there to keep you fuelled up, and at The Junc Shed New Citizen will be hosting a bar serving up all the tipples.
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is gearing up to open in Leeds.
The street food favourite has made waves in the foodie scene over in Manchester and Liverpool, so it's only right that its making its way into Trinity Kitchen.
Jerk Junction specialises in authentic Caribbean flavours, from dumplings and jerk chicken to curried goat and rice and peas, it's all flame-grilled and packed with island spices.
It is expected to open this spring.
Image: The Manc Group
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, said: “We’re so excited to be welcoming Jerk Junction to Trinity Kitchen and we’re sure it will prove very popular. Bringing an authentic Caribbean flavour to Leeds, it’s the perfect new addition and complements our already stellar line-up of street food vendors.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “Jerk Junction is all about real Caribbean food and culture. Everything we do is rooted in Jamaican tradition, from bold spices and authentic cooking to dishes that bring people together.
“For us, food is family. From our kitchen to every person who comes to our counter, we want people to feel the warmth, the energy and the spirit of the islands. We can’t wait to bring those authentic flavours and good vibes to Trinity Kitchen.”
The announcement follows news that the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand Lane7, and footwear retailers schuh and Footasylum, would be opening at Trinity Leeds later this year, whilst the LEGO Store will be relocating to a larger space within the shopping centre.
Posting to their social media, The Maven said: "When news broke The Maven could close its doors at the end of March, the reaction across the city was immediate. The response from customers, bartenders, and hospitality operators showed just how much this bar means to Leeds.
"For nearly 15 years, The Maven has been one of the city’s most loved cocktail destinations and a true institution within the local bar scene.
"When we told you about its potential closure we were flooded with support and interest from across the hospitality community. In the days that followed, several Leeds-based operators stepped forward with genuine offers to buy the venue and keep the bar alive.
"At a time when our industry is too often filled with stories of closures, today brings a little hope - a story about a community stepping up to protect something it values.
"The reports that The Maven would close at the end of March are now firmly in the past: The Maven Lives.
"Thanks to the passion of the Leeds hospitality community and the loyalty of its guests, the bar will continue to be part of the city’s nightlife story. More details about the next chapter for The Maven will be shared soon."
Clementine Hall -
21st October 2024 
