Welcome to Yorkshire
Inspiration • September 16th, 2026
|As autumn settles over the Wakefield district, the area is brimming with exciting events and activities for everyone to enjoy. From spooky Halloween attractions to vibrant seasonal festivals and impressive art exhibitions, there's something to captivate people of all ages. This autumn, Wakefield, known as the UK's Capital of Sculpture, invites residents and visitors alike to explore its diverse offerings.
Halloween Attractions
One of the most thrilling highlights of the season is the Yorkshire Scare Grounds Scream Park. Located on Hell Lane, Heath, this popular event is set to return from 9 October to 1 November. Visitors can expect haunted houses, scare mazes, and live actors that create a truly spine-chilling experience. The attraction is well-known across the UK and regularly ranks among the country's top scare events. Tickets start from £26, making it a perfect outing for those who love a good fright. More details can be found here.
Another must-visit event is the Farmer Copleys Pumpkin Festival, which runs from 26 September to 1 November at Ravensknowle Farm, Pontefract. This festival boasts over 300,000 homegrown pumpkins in 40 varieties, alongside tractor rides, live entertainment, and family activities. With fairground rides and seasonal photo opportunities, it promises a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages, with tickets starting at just £6.70.
For those who enjoy a good story with a spooky twist, the Wakefield Ghost Walk offers an atmospheric journey through the city’s historic streets. Starting at The Black Horse, participants can enjoy a slice of pizza before embarking on a tour filled with local folklore and ghostly tales. This eerie experience runs on various dates between 13 August and 29 October, with ticket prices ranging from £12 to £14. Details are available here.
Art and Culture
Art enthusiasts will be thrilled to know about several exciting exhibitions taking place in the district. The Hepworth Wakefield will host the first major UK solo exhibition by acclaimed Norwegian artist Ida Ekblad from 21 November through to 1 April 2027. This exhibition features vibrant new oil paintings and large-scale sculptures, showcasing Ekblad's unique approach to art. Tickets are priced at £13, but are free for members, Wakefield District residents, and under-18s.
Another captivating exhibition at The Hepworth is Marc Chagall: The Circus, which will run concurrently with Ekblad's show. This exhibition dives into the whimsical world of Chagall's circus-themed art, featuring lithographs and paintings that reveal how his memories influenced his work. Tickets for this exhibition are also £13, with similar concessions available.
At the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, visitors can enjoy the exhibition Olivia Bax: Double Take, featuring bold colours and imaginative forms. This exhibition runs from 26 September to 14 March 2027 and showcases 20 new and recent works that challenge traditional boundaries between art, architecture, and design. Entry costs between £0 and £12, making it an accessible event for all. More information can be found here.
Festivals and Markets
The Wakefield district is also set to host the much-anticipated Wakefield Beer Festival from 23 to 25 October 2026. After a seven-year break, this festival will return with over 100 drinks from regional brewers, alongside tasty street food and live entertainment. Tickets start at £12 for standard sessions and go up to £54 for VIP weekend experiences. More information can be found here.
As the festive season approaches, the Light Up Wakefield event will take place at the National Coal Mining Museum for England on 21 November. This magical celebration will feature spectacular light displays, live music, and even a lantern parade created by local children. The event is free to attend, making it a wonderful outing for families looking to enjoy a festive atmosphere. More details are available here.
With so many events and activities lined up, autumn in Wakefield promises to be a vibrant and exciting time for everyone. Whether looking for thrills, art, or festive fun, there is something for every interest in this beautiful part of Yorkshire.
