What is Wakefield Exchange? Everything You Need to Know About This New Creative Hub

Wakefield is about to get a brand-new hangout spot—and it’s not just your average event space. Wakefield Exchange (WX) is opening its doors next month, right in time for the city’s famous Rhubarb Festival. From mouth-watering street food to live music, workshops, and even opportunities for small businesses, this place has something for everyone. Let’s break down what makes WX so special.

A creative hub with something for everyone

Set to open on Friday 21 February, Wakefield Exchange will kick off with a weekend full of Rhubarb Festival activities. Think of it as a mix between a street food market, a community event space, and a home for creative businesses. It's located smack-dab in the city centre, super close to the bus station and Wakefield’s train stations—so you can’t miss it.

Inside, there’s room for five street food vendors and a bar, offering a relaxed dining experience from daytime until evening. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or staying for the vibe, WX aims to be your go-to spot for casual hangouts.

Boosting the local economy and creativity

But it’s not just about food and fun—WX is part of a bigger plan to rejuvenate Wakefield’s city centre. According to Councillor Hannah Appleyard, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, WX will play a major role in boosting local talent and businesses.

In her own words:

“WX is right in the heart of our city, right next to the bus station and just minutes’ walk from the city’s rail stations. Not only will it provide an exciting programme of events and activities showcasing local talent and beyond, but it also has spaces for digital and creative businesses. It will play an important part in the regeneration of the city centre, attracting visitors and providing exciting opportunities for local people of all ages.”

So, what does that mean for you? Well, apart from creating new jobs in food and drink, the space will also support small and medium-sized businesses in the digital and creative sectors. If you’re into tech or art, there are opportunities here for training, skills development, and even business support.

What’s happening opening weekend?

Mark your calendars for 21-23 February, when WX will be buzzing with Rhubarb Festival excitement. Outside on Union Street, the famous food and drink market will extend under the WX canopy, with stalls offering all kinds of rhubarb-themed goodies.

Step inside, and you’ll find craft activities for families, a hot drink station, and an immersive light installation called Sentinel. Designed by Studio Vertigo, Sentinel is inspired by Wakefield’s coal mining heritage and will transport visitors with its glowing, futuristic design.

Events to watch out for in 2024

WX isn’t just for opening weekend; its calendar is already packed with exciting events for the year. Here are some highlights:

• Sentinel & the Heritage Commissions (21 Feb – 2 March)
  Alongside Sentinel, enjoy interactive sound installations, a mixed-reality experience, and a digital game—all created by local artists as part of the Light Up 2024 programme.
• Game’s Weekend (8-9 March)
  Hosted by Games Republic, this free event will feature retro arcade machines, modern consoles, and brand-new indie games made by developers from Yorkshire and the North.
• This Was Our Year (14-23 March)
  A reflective exhibition celebrating Wakefield District 2024, showcasing the culture, heritage, and community spirit of the area.
• The Sleeping Tree (4-21 April)
  A sound experience by Invisible Flock that transports you to the rainforests of North Sumatra. Lie back and immerse yourself in the soundscapes of this fragile ecosystem.
• Jason Wilsher-Mills Exhibition (20 June – 7 September)
  Bright, bold, and humorous art from a local Wakefield-born artist, celebrating disability, working-class heritage, and northern culture.
• Ships of the Gods (21-23 November)
  A jaw-dropping light installation inspired by Norse mythology. Created by Heinrich & Palmer, this artwork is part of the Light Up Wakefield 2025 festival.

Why Wakefield Exchange matters

Wakefield Exchange is more than just a venue—it’s a space designed to bring people together, support creativity, and breathe new life into the city centre. Thanks to funding from The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and Wakefield Council, this project is giving local artists, businesses, and residents a much-needed boost.

If you want to stay updated on upcoming events or get involved, you can sign up for their e-newsletter on their official website: www.wxwakefield.co.uk.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re into food, art, gaming, or simply looking for a cool new place to visit, WX is shaping up to be a must-see destination. Its mix of events and creative opportunities is bound to make it a buzzing hub for locals and visitors alike. So, grab your diary, make note of those event dates, and get ready to check out this exciting new space next month!

Ready to explore? Let us know which event you’re most excited about in the comments!