Upcoming Events Around Bradford This Summer 2024

Explore the vibrant events happening across the Bradford district this summer! From art exhibitions and historical festivals to family-friendly carnivals and exciting music concerts, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a roundup of some of the must-see events taking place.

Plants of the Qur'an

When: Until Sunday, 8 September (11am - 4pm)
Where: Cartwright Hall
Cost: Free

Discover the captivating botanical illustrations by Sue Wickison in this unique exhibition featuring 31 paintings of plants mentioned in the Holy Qur’an.

Initially showcased at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kew, this exhibition is the result of years of meticulous research by Kew scientist Dr. Shahina Ghazanfar, in collaboration with the renowned scientific artist Sue Wickison. Special guests from Thackray Museum will also be present to discuss the medicinal properties of these plants.

Jurassic Jungle Trail

When: Until Saturday, 31 August
Where: Ilkley
Cost: Free

Embark on a prehistoric adventure with the Jurassic Jungle Trail, available on the free Discover Ilkley App. This augmented reality experience lets you encounter extraordinary dinosaurs, uncover ancient fossils, and learn about fascinating insects and creatures. Perfect for a summer family outing!

Summer Reading Challenge

When: Saturday, 6 July - Saturday, 14 September
Where: Local libraries
Cost: Free

Children aged 4-11 can participate in the Summer Reading Challenge: Marvellous Makers. This free holiday activity encourages kids to read for fun, enhancing their reading skills and confidence. Participants can read any book and earn rewards for their efforts. Sign up at your local library.

Summer Trees Identification

When: Saturday, 13 July (1pm - 3pm)
Where: Denso Marston Nature Reserve
Cost: Free (booking required)

Join expert Steve Warrillow at the Denso Marston Nature Reserve for a workshop on identifying summer trees. Learn to recognize different species based on unique characteristics such as leaf shape, bark texture, and fruit.

Baildon Carnival

When: Saturday, 13 July (from 12pm)
Where: Baildon
Cost: Free

Mark your calendars for the Baildon Carnival, featuring a parade starting at Baildon Roundabout and ending at Jenny Lane Park. The carnival, beginning at 1pm, promises a day full of exciting rides, delicious food, and entertaining games.

Bandstand Concerts

Enjoy fantastic live music performances at bandstands across the district. Here’s the upcoming schedule:

• Roberts Park Bandstand: Sunday, 14 July (2pm - 4pm) - Reuben and the Bridge
• Ilkley Bandstand: Friday, 12 July (12pm - 10pm) - Ilkley Live, Saturday, 13 July (12pm - 10pm) - Ilkley Live, Sunday, 14 July (2pm - 4pm) - Hurricane Blue, Saturday, 20 July (2pm - 4pm) - Timewarp, Sunday, 21 July (12.30pm - 2.25pm) - One Step Head Child's Choir
• Bingley Bandstand: Sunday, 14 July (2pm - 4pm) - Guiseley Brass, Sunday, 21 July (2pm - 4pm) - Noteability Concert Band
• Lister Park Bandstand: Sunday, 14 July (2pm - 4pm) - Hall Royd Band

BD

When: Friday, 26 July - Saturday, 27 July
Where: Various locations in Bradford City Centre
Cost: Free

BDis back with world-class performers, including both international stars and local talent. Enjoy circus acts, colorful parades, street theatre, storytelling, dance, and immersive experiences. Highlights include:

• Arcade: A choose-your-own-path experience in a dark shipping container with 360-degree binaural sound.
• Taroo: A parkour and circus show blending acrobatics and urban street moves.
• Perceptions: A circus journey exploring quantum imagery.
• Pan/Catwalk: A performance highlighting themes of consumerism, fashion, and identity.
• Mdme Kakapo & Son: A comedic duo looking for an easy mark but hilariously failing at being bad.
• Public Trust: Participants declare promises that are artistically recorded.

Haworth Festival

When: Friday, 19 July - Sunday, 28 July
Where: Haworth

Enjoy a variety of events at the Haworth Festival, with activities suitable for all ages. Check out the exciting lineup of performances, workshops, and more.

Dragon Boat Festival

When: Saturday, 20 July - Sunday, 21 July
Where: Roberts Park

Join the fun at the Dragon Boat Festival, featuring boat races on the river and a variety of landside attractions, including children’s entertainment, charity stalls, food stands, and live acts.

Manningham Library’s Art Adventures

When: Thursday, 25 July (11am - 3pm)
Where: Manningham Library
Cost: Free

Experience a creative workshop at Manningham Library, where participants can design captivating children's book covers and bookmarks. This event is a perfect blend of art and literature.

Festival of Archaeology at Cliffe Castle Museum

When: Thursday, 25 July (11am - 3pm)
Where: Cliffe Castle
Cost: Pay as you feel

Dive into the Festival of Archaeology at Cliffe Castle Museum. Participate in an archaeological dig, test your detective skills, and uncover fascinating Ice Age artefacts. This event offers hands-on experiences for young children.

Wrose Festival

When: Saturday, 20 July (11am - 6pm)
Where: Wrose
Cost: Free

The Wrose Summer Festival features live music, food stalls, and arts and crafts. Enjoy performances by Bren Travis/Live Lounge and explore various stalls offering a range of products.

Shipley Summer Special

When: Saturday, 27 July
Where: Shipley
Cost: Free

Join the fun at the Shipley Summer Special, with inflatable assault courses, face painting, balloon modeling, a silent disco, a mask trail, and dance workshops. Enjoy live music and performances throughout the day, including a steel band outside Asda.