The UK's first ever fully sober Oktoberfest event is happening this week, and it's taking place right here in Leeds.
In celebration of Sober October, award winning alcohol-free beer brand Mash Gang, is turning tradition on its head by hosting the UK’s first ever Swaptober Fest – a booze free twist on the infamous Oktoberfest.
Guests will be able to chug steins of Mash Gang's signature Chug lager whilst dancing along to live German oompah music and digging into authentic German bratwurst.
It's set to be one of the biggest and best Bavarian parties, all without the hangover.
The event is taking place this Thursday 16 October, between 5-10pm at one of the nation’s ancestral homes of brewing, The Tetley in Leeds.
In the spirit of the event, guests are encouraged to swap an alcoholic drink on the door to gain entry to Swaptober Fest.
The event is open to everyone who fancies it but spaces are limited, so revellers are encouraged to turn up early to avoid disappointment.
Jo Taylor, Global Marketing Director at Mash Gang commented on the event; “We’re confident that Mash Gang is alcohol-free beer like no other, and stands up to the best beers on the market. So swapping alcoholic beer for ours doesn’t feel like any compromise.
"At Mash Gang, we’re all about having a party, getting together with friends and family over a great tasting beer and making memories, so we wanted to throw a big party this Sober October to show that swapping the booze doesn’t have any impact on the vibes. It’s guaranteed to be a night people won’t forget, with a big Bavarian atmosphere, live music, great food and exceptional beer - and even better, they won’t wake up with a hangover the next day.”
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 -
13th October 2025 
