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What's On in Leeds This October: Events, Food Entertainment, Networking and More

Panoramic view of the Leeds skyline at sunset, showcasing the city's iconic architecture and vibrant cityscape.

Looking for things to do in Leeds this autumn? From food festivals and networking events to cultural attractions, creative workshops and Halloween fun. Here are 10 events and activities worth adding to your itinerary.

1. Attend the M.I.N.E Music Industry Network Event 2026

Taking place on 17 October 2026, this creative networking event brings together musicians, producers, promoters and industry professionals from across Yorkshire. It's a great opportunity to connect with Leeds' thriving creative community.

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Professional DJ headphones resting on a turntable under vibrant blue and yellow neon lights, capturing Leeds' energetic nightlife and live music scene.

2. Watch the Young Chef of the Year Final 2026

Held at first direct bank arena on 20 October 2026, this exciting competition showcases some of the UK's most talented young chefs. Visitors can enjoy live cooking, food samples and an exhibition featuring more than 80 suppliers.

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Young chefs preparing dishes during the Young Chef of the Year cooking competition at first direct bank arena.

3. Discover The Gut-Brain Connection: Nourish Your Mind, Body, and Microbiome

Taking place on 26 October 2026, this wellbeing event explores the relationship between nutrition, gut health and mental wellbeing. It's ideal for anyone interested in health, wellness and personal development.

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Outline of a human head with a brain-shaped arrangement of healthy foods, including fruit, vegetables, bread, fish and dairy products, illustrating the connection between nutrition and brain health.

4. Network at Property Deal Network Leeds

Property investors, developers, landlords and industry professionals can head to Manahatta Greek Street on 22 October 2026 for one of Leeds' most popular property networking events. It's a relaxed opportunity to build connections and discuss new opportunities within the property sector.

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Property Deal Network logo featuring a house and handshake icon above the words "The Property Deal Network", representing property investor networking and real estate connections.

5. Join a Street Photography Workshop in Leeds

The Colour Hunting: A Street Photography Workshop Leeds takes place on 24 October 2026, giving participants the opportunity to explore Leeds Corn Exchange, the arcades and Leeds city centre while learning creative photography techniques.

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Two visitors standing beneath a colourful mosaic arch covered with words and messages.

6. Visit the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds

One of the city's most popular attractions, the museum is hosting the Genghis Khan: How the Mongols Changed the World exhibition alongside Stories from the Steppe throughout autumn. It's a great day out for history lovers visiting Leeds.

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Stylised portrait of Genghis Khan in traditional robes against a geometric black and terracotta background.

7. Get Creative at Paint and Sip – Northern Lights

Taking place at The Alchemist Greek Street on 22 October 2026, Paint and Sip – Northern Lights combines a guided painting session with drinks in a relaxed city-centre setting. Whether you're an experienced artist or a complete beginner, it's a fun and creative way to spend an evening in Leeds.

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Group painting session at a Paint and Sip event, with participants holding completed landscape paintings and artwork examples displayed around the room.

8. Experience Light Night Leeds

On 28 and 29 October 2026, Leeds city centre will come alive with illuminated artworks, projections and interactive installations. It's one of the city's biggest free events and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

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Colourful light projections covering the façade of Leeds Civic Hall during Light Night Leeds, creating a vibrant illuminated display against the night sky.

9. Meet Authors at Authors at the Armouries

Book lovers can visit the Royal Armouries on 31 October 2026 for the annual book festival, featuring 100+ authors, vendors and book signings in the heart of Leeds.

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Promotional banner for Authors at the Armouries 2026, featuring a list of participating authors, vendors and the event date of 31 October in Leeds, UK, with support from the British Heart Foundation.

10. Experience Leeds Scare Maze - Motel of Horrors

Running throughout October, this Halloween attraction offers immersive horror experiences and plenty of scares for thrill-seekers looking for something different during their visit to Leeds.

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Promotional image for Leeds Scare Maze 2026, showing a person holding a room key outside a brightly lit building, with the text “Bigger & Better for 2026!” and the Leeds Scare Maze logo.

Where to Stay in Leeds This Autumn

Whether you're visiting Leeds for a food event, networking opportunity, cultural attraction or weekend getaway, autumn is one of the best times to experience the city. With many events taking place throughout October, staying close to the action makes it easy to make the most of your visit.

At Tenaura Homes, our canal-side apartments at Waterside Apartments offer the perfect base for exploring Leeds. Located just a scenic 15-minute walk from Leeds city centre, you'll be close to Leeds Dock, the Royal Armouries Museum, first direct bank arena and many of the events featured above. Guests enjoy self check-in, fast Wi‑Fi, fully equipped kitchens and a peaceful waterside setting, making our apartments ideal for both business and leisure stays.

Planning an autumn weekend in Leeds? Book your stay with Tenaura Homes and enjoy easy access to some of the city's best events, attractions and experiences this season.

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