If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what to do with a long summer weekend—especially one where you don’t want to spend a fortune—then Holmfirth Arts Festival might be just what you’re after. Nestled in West Yorkshire, this local draw is back again for 2025, and it’s got something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of live music, street theatre, quirky opera, or just fancy a lovely walk with a bit of art on the side, there’s plenty here to keep you smiling all summer.
Festival vibes from May to September
The Festival kicks off on 25 May 2025 and keeps going all the way to 20 September 2025, spreading good vibes and creativity all over the Holme Valley. It’s not just a one-weekend wonder, either. There’s loads happening over the months, from big outdoor events to smaller shows in rural spots.
This year’s theme is all about celebrating the stunning Holme Valley landscape, the area’s rich history, and the push to take better care of the environment. Expect a proper mix of community fun and top-tier talent from across the country.
Big Free Weekend: 14–15 June
Mark this one in your calendar. The Big Free Weekend is the heart of the festival and it’s happening in Holmfirth town centre on 14 and 15 June. It’s exactly what it says on the tin—big and free.
Here’s just some of what’s going on:
- World-class street theatre (yes, right on your doorstep)
- Live music
- Bollywood dancing workshops for when you fancy moving your hips
- Pop-Up Opera for something a bit unexpected
- Outdoor performances by DIY Theatre Company, PifPaf, and Highly Sprung Performance
- A massive community pageant celebrating the local area’s history
- Creative drop-in activities for families and kids
- A special event called Word Weave from Holmfirth Writers Group
And new this year: the Eco Expo—a mix of interactive art, performances, and science-led exhibits from Yorkshire-based artists and environmentalists. It’s all about climate sustainability, but without the lecture-y vibe.
What else is on this summer?
The Big Weekend might be the star of the show, but there’s loads more across the rest of the summer. Here are some highlights:
- 25 June: The ever-popular Accessible Amble—a guided walk that’s friendly for everyone
- Opera for the People – Described as “Victoria Wood meets Pavarotti” (we’re intrigued too)
- Spafford + Campbell – contemporary folk duo bringing chilled summer vibes
- Rachel Modest, finalist on The Voice, bringing some soul to the Valley
- Comedy night with the brilliant Marcus Brigstocke and his new show Vitruvian Mango, at the Civic Holmfirth on Friday 12 September
All these events take place in venues big and small around the Holme Valley, so you get a proper mix of scenery while you’re enjoying the show.
Why it matters (and who’s making it happen)
Holmfirth Arts Festival isn’t just about putting on a show. It’s a year-long project made possible by an army of volunteers, passionate local groups, and generous funders like the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England, Big Give Arts for Impact, and Creative Minds, among others. Local legends like Stotts Coach Travel and Bike Shed Media chip in too.
And there’s a new bit of local pride: this year, the festival has not one but two new patrons—actors Jessica Gunning and Kieran Hodgson, both originally from Holmfirth.
Festival director Bev Adams puts it perfectly:
“If you already know Holmfirth and the Holme Valley, this is your chance to see it in a new light. If you’ve not yet discovered this beautiful part of Yorkshire, Holmfirth Arts Festival is the perfect time to visit.”
Quick info at a glance
🗓️ Dates: 25 May – 20 September 2025
📍 Main event location: Holmfirth town centre (Big Free Weekend), plus venues around Holme Valley
🎟️ Tickets: Some events are free, others ticketed—check the full programme online
🌍 Eco focus: Eco Expo features art + science to talk sustainability
🎤 Special guests: Marcus Brigstocke, Rachel Modest, Spafford + Campbell
👣 Family-friendly? Yep. And then some.
Where to find more info
For full listings, tickets, and the latest updates, head to the Holmfirth Arts Festival website.
Or, if you want a taster of what to expect, just pop by Holmfirth town centre during the Big Free Weekend and soak it all in. You might come for the street theatre but end up staying for the opera. Or the Bollywood dancing. Or the pageant. Or maybe just a cracking Yorkshire summer day out.
