It's not Christmas until you've gone and got a Coca-Cola from the giant red van.
It has been two long years since the Coca-Cola Christmas truck hit the road and drove across the UK to give out refreshing drinks to city dwellers.
Finally, the Christmas truck is returning to our roads as part of the 2021 festivities.
Although the final dates for the van are yet to be announced, we're pretty confident that Leeds will make the cut, given it has appeared on the Coca-Cola Christmas roadmap for as long as we can remember.
The Coca-Cola Christmas Truck is one of the Christmas traditions we have come to look forward to each year. / Image: Coca-Cola
The Coca-Cola Christmas truck dates way back to 1995, where their catchy jingle "holidays are coming" has given soft drink lovers a taste of Christmas in a red bottle.
Their festive packages, paired with real-life visits from the Christmas Truck have made the industry giants an unforgettable Christmas tradition.
In recent years, soft drink lovers have queued to grab a free sample of the drink; grab a selfie with the truck and even purchase personalised merchandise from the company.
The last giant red truck to grace the UK with its festive presence was in 2019, before pandemic-related restrictions were in place.
The van visited 19 locations, including two stops in Leeds during this time, and visitors were given 150ml samples of Coca-Cola Zero.
Coca-Cola have been hinting online that they will announce their UK tour dates soon, but only time will tell when we can see the Christmas truck for ourselves in Leeds.
In 2019, the company partnered with Crisis, the national homelessness charity and made trips to new locations across the UK.
The locations are expected to be made on their social media accounts, along with all you need to know about this year's tour.
"After years of late nights, strong cocktails, and incredible stories; The Maven will close its doors"
It's a sad day for the Leeds night life scene, as a beloved speakeasy bar has today announced that it will be closing its doors for good.
The Maven has been a firm favourite for many years with those looking to enjoy some experimental and expertly made cocktails.
Hidden behind an unassuming door at the top of Call Lane, it was a great spot to visit if you were looking for something that little bit special.
Announcing the news to their social media, The Maven said: "From the bottom of our hearts we thank you for being our guests over the years and promise that until then, we'll do our best to give you the best nights out on Call Lane."
Luxury Leeds steakhouse to undergo huge £1.2 million renovation
Clementine Hall
Leeds restaurant The Cut & Craft has announced further expansion plans for the spring.
Swanky all-day dining restaurant and bar, The Cut & Craft, is expanding its popular Leeds site, investing a whopping £1.2 million to create a new adjoining elegant bar, lounge and private spaces.
Located within the former historic Collinson’s Cafe, the renovation will transform the former neighbouring Paul Smith store, to extend the existing brand offering.
The extension will celebrate the original beauty of the space, whilst acknowledging the legacy of Wallace Hartley - a talented musician who played at Collinson’s Cafe in the early 1900s before his role as bandleader on Titanic during its maiden voyage.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Grade II-listed building’s features including its iconic glass dome, stained glass and circular central bar will remain, with the addition of two beautifully designed private dining rooms.
The extension is due for competition this spring and will transform the existing venue into a space with seating for an impressive 370 covers.
Oscar Akgul, CEO at The Cut & Craft said: “Planning for this new chapter began within the first year of opening. By year two, it was clear that we required additional space to serve the city’s appetite for The Cut & Craft’s signature hospitality.
Image: Supplied
“The brand’s deep affinity with the Victoria Quarter and the heritage of the building played an essential role in the decision to grow here.
“We want to thank our regular guests and everyone who has joined us at The Cut & Craft Leeds since opening and we look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with you all.”
Sophie Smith -
17th November 2021 
