August is brimming with incredible events and activities across Wakefield, perfect for the summer holidays. One of the most anticipated events is The Hatchling, a spectacular outdoor theatrical performance. But that’s not all—expect a month full of thrilling performances, community celebrations, and unique experiences.
Key Highlights for the Month
In addition to The Hatchling, August offers a wealth of theatrical and musical performances, including Wakefield Pride, and the much-loved summer festival, A Grand Day Out. These events promise endless entertainment for all ages.
Last month’s Pontefract Liquorice Festival was a massive hit, with the town buzzing with activity. Mark your calendars for next year’s festival on 13 July 2025!
Many of these events are part of Our Year Wakefield District 2024, a year-long celebration of the vibrant community and culture of Wakefield. The full programme is packed with exciting activities for everyone to enjoy.
Celebrate Yorkshire Day in Wakefield
1 August, is Yorkshire Day! Celebrate across Wakefield with a variety of events:
- National Coal Mining Museum: Enjoy Grange Moor Brass Band, join a Whippet Walk, and create your own Yorkshire rose badge.
- Wakefield Cathedral: A free family fun day with crafts and activities.
- Friarwood Valley Gardens, Pontefract: Swing boats, bouncy castles, Punch and Judy shows, and delicious food and drink.
- Pontefract Castle: Explore the beautiful grounds and learn fascinating facts about Yorkshire.
- Xscape: Sample exclusive Rhubarb & Custard flavoured popcorn by Joe & Seph.
The Hatchling: A Dragon in Wakefield
A giant dragon puppet is set to take Wakefield by storm with The Hatchling, an extraordinary free outdoor performance during the August bank holiday weekend.
Family Fun with A Grand Day Out
Experience A Grand Day Out, Wakefield’s travelling summer festival, featuring giant sandpits, face painting, funfair rides, and seaside activities. The festival will be at:
- Castleford: 2-3 August
- Wakefield: 9-10 August
- South Elmsall: 16-17 August
Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet
Join the award-winning theatre group Illyria for an outdoor performance of Romeo and Juliet at Pontefract Castle. This classic tale of love, revenge, and fate promises to captivate audiences.
Wakefield Pride 2024
Wakefield Pride returns with a vibrant LGBTQ+ celebration. Enjoy local talent at the community stage, followed by a colourful parade to the main stage festival at Borough Road Car Park. Participate in a family-friendly screen printing workshop at The Art House to make your own colourful flag or banner.
Theatre Royal Wakefield Presents Evita
Catch the talented young cast of Theatre Royal Wakefield in their debut production of Evita, featuring music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. This musical chronicles the rise of María Eva Duarte de Perón from humble beginnings to fame and power.
Pontefract Races: Ladies Day
Dress to impress for Ladies Day at Pontefract Racecourse. With stylish hats and fascinators, the Best Dressed Lady Competition adds glamour to a fantastic day of horse racing.
Music Across Wakefield
- Pontefract Castle: Enjoy live music from local bands every Sunday in August.
- Friarwood Festival: Experience local bands, street food, bars, and kids’ entertainment.
- Wakefield Cathedral: The National Youth Choir presents “All Seems Beautiful to Me”.
Upcoming Events in September
- Heritage Open Days 2024: England’s largest festival of history and culture.
- Artwalk: A bi-monthly evening of art, performance, and heritage in Wakefield city centre.
- Grimethorpe Colliery Band: A performance at the National Coal Mining Museum.
- Babeworld: No Sleep Just Clouds: An art installation at The Art House exploring neurodivergent experiences.
- Normanton’s Gala Weekend: Celebrating its 60th year at Haw Hill Park.
- Accelerate Car Show: Featuring supercars, modified cars, vans, and bikes at Farmer Copleys.
- Hepworth Wakefield Harvest Festival: Featuring over 60 stalls with artisan food, drink, and vintage goods.
West Yorkshire Roundup
- Bradford: Bradford Pride takes over City Park with free live performances.
- Calderdale: Hebden Bridge Vintage Weekend features live music, classic cars, and vintage stalls.
- Kirklees: Oakwell Hall hosts a Yorkshire Day celebration with live music and a makers market.
- Leeds: Leeds West Indian Carnival brings vibrant costumes, tropical music, and delicious food to the city.
