WHAT’S ON

Our eight picks of the many eclectic events happening across Leeds, York and Yorkshire this season.

Overlooked - Leeds City Museum

10th February - 25th June

At the always interesting City Museum, this exhibition reveals the untold stories of Leeds. Discover these often overlooked people of the past at a fascinating exploration of history, diversity and inclusivity. As the tagline says: People of Leeds as you’ve never seen them.

Leeds Artists Show - Leeds Art Gallery

15th February - 30th April

Showcasing the array of amazing art in the city, Leeds art gallery exhibits 90 local artists at Leeds Artists Show. The first of its kind for over a decade, it reveals the depth and breadth of talent here; there’s drawing, painting, photography, performance, sculpture, textiles, film and video, plus 21 pieces created by Leeds primary schools.

York Chocolate Festival

6th - 10th April

Easter arrives with the usual festivities for all the familyand York is the perfect city to celebrate it in style. With a rich history of chocolate making here, it excels over the Easter weekend with workshops, tasting sessions and demonstrations - all topped off with a taste of the finest local chocolate to indulge in.

York Open Studios - various

15th & 16th & 22nd & 23rd April

For two weekends in April, York goes behind the scenes of its creative practices. Over 150 artist studios open up to the public who can visit, meet and chat, whilst their artwork is displayed for an opportunity to buy local pieces by an array of exceptional talent.

York International Women’s Week - various

4th - 12th March & 22nd April

Extending on from International Women’s Day on the 8th March, York comes together for a week of eclectic events under the theme of solidarity. There are fun gatherings and vital discussions, all progressing towards a more equal future. And the inspiring event returns in April for a one-off concert Music Can Do This.

Discover National Parks Fortnight - Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors

4th - 18th April

This annual spotlight on the country’s glorious National Parks returns in April and reminds us of the wondrous nature here in Yorkshire. Down to the Peak District, up to the North York Moors or across to the Yorkshire Dales, there are walks to ramble, views to take in and events to enjoy within this special fortnight - and of course all year long!

Whitby Goth Weekend - Whitby Pavillion

28th - 30th April

This biannual weekend is a spectacular sight unlike any other. Thousands of goths dress up and come down to the evocative east coast resort of Whitby, where dark music and fashion light up the town. This gathering of such a unique and alternative subculture makes for an impressive and immersive weekend of gothic fun.

Leeds Sausage & Cider Festival - Royal Armouries

6th May www.sausageandciderfest.co.uk/leeds

Returning to the Royal Armouries this May is the happy gathering of sausage and cider - together at last. At either the afternoon or the evening session, eat and drink your way around a huge selection of - you guessed it - sausages and ciders. What’s not to love?

Lins Wilson