What's On in Bradford This February: Festivals, Art, and Family Fun

February is here, and Bradford is packed with events to brighten up the winter days. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, or family fun-seeker, there's something for you. From gaming and beer festivals to a magical walk-through experience and a fresh exhibition by David Hockney, February in Bradford promises culture, adventure, and entertainment for all ages.

February fun: Festivals and events to kickstart the month

The month kicks off with a double dose of excitement. The Yorkshire Games Festival in Bradford is a must-visit for gamers, while the Bradford Beer & Cider Festival in Saltaire is perfect for those who love a good pint.

For families, half-term brings special trails at National Trust East Riddlesden Hall in Keighley, while theatre lovers can catch some top-notch performances in Ilkley. With Bradford’s upcoming UK City of Culture 2025 status, the city is buzzing with creativity and celebration.

A new exhibition at the Brontë Parsonage Museum

When? From 1st February
Where? Brontë Parsonage Museum, Haworth

A new exhibition, From Haworth to Eternity, opens at the Brontë Parsonage Museum on 1st February. This fascinating display explores how Haworth has been shaped by the Brontës’ legacy—from early literary pilgrims to modern-day tourists. It includes rare letters, manuscripts, and souvenirs, plus materials from the museum’s drama archive, showing how film and TV adaptations have kept the Brontës’ stories alive.

If you're a fan of Jane Eyre or Wuthering Heights, this is a must-see. And, of course, it’s another great excuse to wander through Haworth’s cobbled streets and moors, just like the Brontës once did.

Blaise Wool Festival: A celebration of Bradford’s textile heritage

When? Sunday, 2nd February
Where? Bradford Industrial Museum

Bradford was once the wool capital of the world, and the Blaise Wool Festival is here to celebrate that rich history. Held at the Bradford Industrial Museum, the event includes:

• Live music
• Spinning and dyeing demonstrations
• Hands-on workshops
• A chance to meet Bishop Blaise—the patron saint of wool workers

Alongside the festival, you can explore the museum’s permanent collections and exhibitions, giving a deeper insight into Bradford’s industrial past. If you love textiles, history, or just fancy a day out with a difference, don’t miss it!

David Hockney’s ‘Flowers at the Mill’ at Salts Mill

When? From 29th January 2025
Where? Salts Mill, Saltaire

David Hockney, one of Britain’s most celebrated artists, is bringing a brand-new exhibition to Salts Mill in Saltaire. 20 Flowers for 2025 and Some Bigger Pictures features:

• 20 stunning iPad paintings of flowers
• Large-scale landscape and abstract works
• A unique 6-screen video installation, showing Hockney’s brushstrokes in action

It’s the first time this collection has been shown in the UK outside London, and the first time the video installation has been exhibited in Europe. If you love art, technology, or just beautiful visuals, this is an exhibition to add to your list.

Bradford 2025 presents: Grue – A magical walk-through experience

When? 8th-9th & 15th-24th February
Where? Damart Mill, Bradford
Tickets? £5

Step into an enchanted world with Grue, an immersive experience designed by artist Steve Wintercroft. As part of Bradford’s City of Culture 2025 programme, this interactive adventure takes visitors through:

• Secret doors
• A fairy-tale forest
• An underwater world

Your mission? Help a historian unravel the mysteries of Damart Mill. Expect surprises, storytelling, and some unexpected guests along the way. The entire experience is made from recycled and repurposed materials, proving that creativity and sustainability go hand in hand. Plus, you can warm up with a drink and take part in craft activities on-site.

Looking ahead: March highlights

If you're planning ahead, here are some must-visit events in March:

• 1st-23rd March – Faces of Bradford: Then and Now at Ilkley Manor House
• 9th March – Saltaire Farmers Market at Roberts Park
• 14th March – Loaded Laughs at Loading Bay, Bradford
• 20th-23rd March – Steam Gala on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
• 29th March – The Music of U2 by Candlelight at Bradford Cathedral

Ready to explore?

With so much happening in Bradford this February, there's no excuse to stay in! Whether you're exploring art, history, theatre, or festivals, there’s something for everyone.

For more details and tickets, head over to Visit Bradford.