A massive new Mardi Gras festival is coming to Leeds this summer, bringing with it a host of Ru Paul’s Drag Race stars and a special DJ set from fashion icon Gok Wan.
The park is due to be completely transformed for the event, with two full-size festival production stages forming the focal point at Soldier’s Fields in Roundhay Park.
The main stage will focus on all things house and dance with huge sets from international headliners like Jax Jones, SIGALA, Disciples and Gok Wan.
Support here will come from brilliant talents closer to home like Homoelectric’s Will Tramp, Leeds’ icon Angel Lee, Halifax selector Dale Castell, plus Essel, Marc Leaf and Tin Tin.
On the second stage, though, it’s all about commercial, pop and cabaret acts. This is where you’ll be able to catch the Drag Race gang, with performances from acts like Frock Destroyers, Tayce, Baga Chipz, Blu Hydrangea and Divina De Campo.
Pop acts the Cheeky Girls, Stephanie Hirst and Danny Beard are all confirmed headliners here, performing with support from Leeds-based DJs and hosts Dave Cooper, Luke Horsfield, Mamma Bear & The Rose and Miss Orry.
As well as a full-on music programme, there’ll be a host of fairground rides and a street food market packed with tasty treats to keep you going throughout the all-day event.
Street food traders confirmed as taking part so far include Pizza Loco, Nok Thai Cuisine, Jenny’s Jerk Chicken, the Savvy Baker, newcomers The Chaat Walas and Pig Love Brewing Co.
There’ll also be a market village between the stages and the fairground rides, with craft stalls from local makers selling unique and lovingly hand-made items.
For those really wanting to push the boat out, there’ll be VIP tickets on sale giving you fast-track entry and access to an exclusive Pavilion area with its own premium cocktail bar, a retro VW campervan called Mabel.
And for those unable to make it in person, DJs Wes and Leanne from LDC Radio Leeds will be covering the event live on the day so you can enjoy all the action from home.
“Whilst Leeds is known for its amazing festivals and events, including carnival in nearby Chapeltown, there hasn’t been anything quite like this before,” said co-founder and organiser Shaun Wilson.
“So many big names have performed on-stage at Roundhay Park over the years and now we get to have it as the home to debut Mardi Gras. With many UK festivals sadly being cancelled for a second year running we felt it was particularly important to spread a little joy and positivity via this unique event.
“As well as amazing musical talent, we also have craft and food stalls, plus some white-knuckle fairground rides.
“It really is going to be a day to remember and we hope it will be the start of a new tradition for the city. It is so important for people to have a safe space to come and enjoy themselves with friends and loved ones and that is exactly what visitors can expect from Mardi Gras.”
Mardi Gras – Proud in the Park is taking place on Saturday 14th August, Roundhay Park and will celebrate love in all its forms. You can grab tickets starting from £30 here.
