Around 50,000 thousand people are expected as the Leeds Road Festival brings music, culture, business, and community pride to the heart of Bradford.
The festival started as an idea to celebrate one of Bradford’s most well-known ‘Leeds Road’ corridor, which is a real economic powerhouse in Bradford, with hundreds of businesses driving the area’s growth. The festival will showcase the diversity and vibrancy of this iconic road, renowned for its incredible offering of Asian food, fashion, and retail.
After a very successful first year in 2025 that brought in around 20,000 thousand visitors and lots of positive feedback, the Leeds Road Festival is returning in 2026. Organisers say this year’s event will be even bigger, better and more exciting than before.
The festival runs all through August and ends with a free two-day event at Bradford Moor Park on 15th and 16th August.
Over the weekend, famous performers from around the world will share the stage with international and local artists. Dozens of food stalls, craft sellers, and community groups will turn Bradford Moor Park into a lively celebration of culture.
Families can enjoy fairground rides, children’s activities, exhibitions, fashion shows, heritage displays, and live performances during the two days, making it an event for all ages.
The festival is more than music and entertainment
For decades, Leeds Road has been known as the city’s ‘Curry Mile’, and is one of the busiest commercial areas. It is home to independent businesses, award-winning restaurants, specialist shops, and communities with roots in South Asia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Africa, and more.
Last year’s first event showed what can happen when businesses, charities, public groups, and local residents work together for one goal: celebrating the people who make Leeds Road special.
This year, that momentum has grown with the number of independent businesses supporting it. This level of support sends a strong message.
It shows that people now see Leeds Road Festival as more than just a local event – it has become an important part of West Yorkshire’s cultural calendar.
Saleem Akhtar, co-founder of the Leeds Road Festival and owner of Jinnah Restaurants, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing the Leeds Road Festival back for a second year after the incredible response to last year’s event during Bradford’s City of Culture celebrations.
“Thanks to the fantastic support of our local MP Imran Hussain, Bradford Council, Bradford Culture Company and businesses from across the city, we’re looking forward to delivering another unforgettable festival for the whole community.
“Whether you’re coming for the food, entertainment, shopping or family fun, there’s something for everyone. We can’t wait to welcome you to Leeds Road and celebrate everything that’s great about our community.”
Samad Iqbal, General Manager of Akbar’s, said: “The Leeds Road Festival is a chance for our community to come together and celebrate everything that makes this area special – our people, our businesses and our community spirit.
“Our late founder, Shabir Hussain, had always believed in Leeds Road. By opening Akbar’s here, he helped pave the way for other businesses to invest and thrive, creating the vibrant destination we see today.
“The festival not only showcases the incredible businesses on our doorstep, but also inspires young people by proving that success and opportunity can be built within their own community. By supporting the festival, you’re investing in the next generation.
“Together, we can challenge outdated perceptions of Bradford, celebrate our achievements and continue building a stronger, more prosperous community. We’d be proud to have you join us in making the Leeds Road Festival a celebration of everything this community represents.”
Mani Bhatoa of Heera Foods commented: “We’re incredibly proud to be the main sponsor of the Leeds Road Festival. Bradford is one of the UK’s most diverse cities, and events like this bring people from all backgrounds together to celebrate, connect and enjoy everything our community has to offer.
“At Heera, being part of the community is about more than business. It’s about giving back to the people and families who have supported us over the years and helping create opportunities for everyone to come together.
“We hope the festival brings families, friends and neighbours together to enjoy a fantastic weekend and celebrate the community spirit that makes Bradford such a special place.”
Nadim Hanif, CEO Asian Express Newspaper added: “Last year’s atmosphere was unforgettable. You could feel the excitement throughout the whole weekend.
“The food, music and entertainment were fantastic, but what stood out most was seeing so many different communities celebrating together.
“It felt like the whole of Bradford came together in one place. This is exactly the kind of event Yorkshire needs more of.”
2026 HIGHLIGHTS
International music performances
Headline performance Abrar-ul-Haq
Celebrity artists
Live cultural entertainment
Family funfair
Global street food
Fashion shows
Community market stalls
Children’s activities
Heritage displays
Arts and crafts
Local business showcase
Charity and community exhibitions
