Bored Of The Usual? Bradford's Got You Covered This Summer

Let's be honest, staring at the calendar and trying to think of interesting things to do can be a proper drag. You end up going to the same places, doing the same old things. But what if you could step back into the Ice Age, listen to some classic tunes, or even eat a biscuit that tells a story? Actually, it turns out you can.

I was just having a coffee and scrolling through what's on, and Bradford is absolutely packed with brilliant stuff over the next few months, especially with all the buzz around the UK City of Culture 2025. There's a bit of everything, whether you’ve got the kids in tow, you’re looking for a day out with mates, or you just fancy doing something a bit different on your own. So, grab a brew and let’s look at what’s happening.

A trip back in time at Cliffe Castle

Right, get this. You can literally go back to the Ice Age without needing a time machine. Over at the beautiful Cliffe Castle in Keighley, there's a special exhibition on loan from the British Museum. And it’s not just a bunch of old rocks; we’re talking about actual art made by people thousands and thousands of years ago. It’s pretty mind-blowing when you think about it. Imagine you’re just doodling on a bit of rock or bone, and then ten thousand years later, people are looking at it in a museum. That’s basically what this is, but way more impressive than my stick figures.

It’s a partnership with Bradford 2025, so it's a big deal. The exhibition shows that being creative isn't a new thing; our super-ancient ancestors were doing it too. It’s a great one for anyone who loves history or art, or just wants to see something properly old. It’s running all the way until 14th September 2025, so you’ve got plenty of time to pop over and have a look. A bit of culture in a stunning setting – what's not to love?

Sing your heart out at the Alhambra

You know when you wish you could have seen a legendary band live, but they either broke up years ago or the tickets cost a fortune? Well, the next best thing is happening at the iconic Alhambra Theatre in Bradford this July. They've got four incredible tribute concerts lined up, celebrating some of the biggest names in music.

Whether you're a fan of Queen, The Beatles, Coldplay, or Simon and Garfunkel, there's a night for you. These aren't just people with guitars singing the classics. The organisers say the performers bring all the "vibrant energy, costumes and showmanship of these great bands." So, they go all out to make it feel like you're watching the real deal. It’s the perfect excuse for a big night out in the city. Get ready to sing along to your favourite tunes until your voice is hoarse.

Check the theatre's listings for specific dates in July 2025 and grab your tickets before they sell out.

Free family fun in the city

Trying to find things to do with the kids that won’t break the bank can feel like a mission. Good news! The Bradford Literature Festival is hosting two Family Fun Days, and they are completely free. On Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th July 2025, you can head into the city for a weekend packed with activities for the little ones. There are book readings happening in Waterstones, arts and crafts sessions in Broadway Bradford and City Park, plus interactive storytelling, live music, and even face painting.

It sounds like a fantastic way to spend a weekend, with loads going on to keep everyone entertained without you having to spend a penny on the activities themselves. A happy wallet and happy kids – that’s a win-win.

Fancy dress and straw bales in Oxenhope

Okay, this next one sounds brilliantly bonkers. On Sunday, 6th July 2025, the village of Oxenhope is holding its annual Charity Straw Race. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Competitors, often in the most ridiculous fancy dress you can imagine, have to run a two-mile course carrying a bale of straw. The route takes them around the village pubs, which just adds to the fun. Imagine the chaos! People dressed as superheroes or film characters, huffing and puffing with a massive bale of straw, all to raise money for a good cause.

You don't have to run, you can just go and cheer them on from the sidelines. It’s a proper community day out with a great atmosphere. To make a real day of it, you could even arrive in style on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway and have a wander around the stunning Brontë Country while you’re there.

Something a bit different from Bradford 2025

As part of the UK City of Culture celebrations, there are some really unique events happening that are worth checking out. First up, there’s a play called Chasing the Wind. The description is quite intriguing: "There's something in the air. Change... No, this is bigger." It sounds pretty deep, telling a story about change, the courage you need to face it, and the fear that can come with it. It uses live music, movement, and different languages, but it's been created to be understandable for everyone. It’s on at a venue called the Loading Bay on 12th & 13th July 2025, with shows at 11am and 2pm. Tickets are only £5, and it’s suitable for ages 10 and up.

Now for something you can really get your teeth into… literally. A group of Bradford-based food artists called Edible Archives have turned local stories into biscuits! How amazing is that? They’ve created a limited-edition tin called The Bradford Selection, with each biscuit inspired by the people and cultures of the district. It’s not just a tin of biccies; it's a whole experience. The biscuits include:

• The Welcome: Inspired by people from all over the world who have made Bradford their home.
• Richard Dunn-Ker: A tribute to the legendary Bradford-born heavyweight boxer.
• ’Til the Revolution: Inspired by the city’s social history.
• Apple Day Forever: A nod to the Bowling Park Community Orchard.
• Gur in a Suitcase: A celebration of Bradford’s Sikh-Punjabi diaspora, inspired by the sweet treat barfi.

The collectible tin comes with artworks and stories, and there’s even a guided audio experience to listen to while you tuck in. You can get your hands on a tin from selected local shops from Friday 27 June 2025.

Stick these in your diary too

If all that wasn't enough to fill your calendar, here are a few more highlights to look forward to. It’s going to be a busy couple of months in the Bradford District!

Date	Event	Venue
18th-20th July 2025	ACT Shakespeare: The Tempest	Bradford Cathedral
19th July-3rd August 2025	Festival of Archaeology	NT East Riddlesden Hall, Keighley
25th July 2025	Voodoo Room	Ilkley Playhouse
26th July 2025	Baildon Farmers Market	Lower Ian Clough Car Park
1st August 2025	Yorkshire Calling	Bradford Live

Right, that should definitely give you a few ideas. It looks like Bradford is the place to be this summer!