2023 summer festivals in Leicester
Known as one of the most diverse cities in the UK, Leicester is bursting with a spectacular variety of different cultures, and we are so lucky to be able to educate ourselves and experience these different arts right here on our doorstep.
Make this summer one to remember and experience a range of different arts, tastes, and sounds from around the world.
An Indian Summer
21 – 23 July
An Indian Summer is back for another year of celebrations, showcasing contemporary South Asian arts and culture.
Dive in and immerse yourself with a family fun extravaganza on 23 July in Orton Square. Experience authentic Mumbai street food along with a mix of music, dance, theatre, films, talks, and family art workshops; there will be something for everyone to enjoy!
They are also bringing back the outdoor cinema, on the 21 July, so be sure to pre-book your tickets so you don’t miss out.
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Journeys Festival
22 – 23 July
Journeys Festival International returns to the city centre this July for a weekend jam-packed with exciting outdoor art shows for audiences of all ages.
From the 22 – 23 July, the streets of Leicester will be filled with disco bikes, giant sea creatures, acrobatics, urban safaris, and hip hop.
To find out more, click here
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Cosmopolitan Arts Festival
29 July
From 1pm – 10pm Leicester will be bursting with a diverse range of performances dotted around the city centre, along with free arts workshops to get stuck in and celebrate all the culture the city has to offer.
The main stage area in Jubilee Square will host a fantastic line up of local, national and international talent, followed by a spectacular finale performance specially created with mapped film project, music and dance.
To find out more, click here
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Curve on the Square
11 – 13 August
To celebrate it’s 15th Birthday, the Curve Theatre will be resurrecting a stage outside its building on Orton Square, which will host performances from local artists and community groups all weekend!
To find out more, click here
For the Love of Jazz
12 – 13 August
After the success of the first For the Love of Jazz in 2022, it’s back for another year! To celebrate the vibrant jazz scene in Leicester, there will be featured performances from a diverse line-up, including a Grammy award-winning headliner!
There will also be workshops taking place on the day as well as a digital art exhibition on the history of UK Jazz.
To find out more, click here
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Punk Festival Weekender
18 – 20 August
Currently exhibiting at Leicester Museum and Art Gallery, the Punk: Rage & Revolution is showcasing a variety of punk memorabilia, including some pieces by the late Dame Vivienne Westwood, which haven’t been on display since she passed away.
To tie in with this fantastic exhibition, there will be a punk festival taking over the city from 18 – 20 August 2023.
Local music and arts venues, shops, bars and restaurants will be hosting their own punk-themed indoor and outdoor events.
Keep your eyes peeled for more information
Mela Festival
20 August
Famous for being the first of its kind here in the UK, Leicester Belgrave Mela Festival is one of the most established free community events of its kind in the UK.
This year it will be taking place on Sunday 20 August, 11am – 6pm in the city centre.
It is a fantastic way to experience the City’s diversity whilst indulging in delicious Indian cuisine and enjoying a whole host of South Asian arts and cultural activities.
From processions to fashion shows, and performances to shopping stalls, there is so much to do and see over the weekend.
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re/action
26 – 27 August
A brand new festival is coming to town! Art Reach in association with Leicester City Council present re/action festival: exploring creativity for the climate.
The festival will explore issues surrounding the climate crisis, such as sustainability, recycling and how small actions can lead to big changes.
Experience a captivating dance parade along with giant puppets and tiny creatures as well as see an orchestra perform on vegetable instruments and soup!
To find out more click here
BrewBeat
1 – 3 September
Who doesn’t love good music and great beer? Celebrating craft beer, Brew Beat is returning for its third year!
It’s a fantastic free event for the whole family to enjoy, celebrating local talent as well as some of the city’s best food spots.
For more information stay tuned Brew Beat | Brew Beat
Africa Fest
9 September
Africa Fest is a unique addition to Leicester’s Festivals and a great way to finish of a memorable summer of events.
This charitable festival brings together an array of African-centred stalls, a local African business expo, an elegant African fashion show, live performances, and the African Excellence Award – all contributing to a deeper understanding of African culture and promoting community relations.
For more information click here
