What's On In May

The flowers are blooming, birds are singing in the trees and May is arriving in the Bradford district, bringing with it National Walking Month! With two bank holidays in May, there's plenty of time to enjoy the exciting events planned. Let’s explore some highlights as we get ready for a very merry month of May.

Kick off the month at Salts Mill in Saltaire to see Ann Hamilton's exhibition ‘We Will Sing,’ part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, on display from 3rd May-2nd November. More Bradford 2025 events to look out for include ‘The Beacon’ heading to Bowling Park; ‘Bingley 25 Weekend,’ a celebration of culture and heritage in Bingley from 3rd-5th May, featuring the Bingley Walkers are Welcome Celebration of Walking on Bank Holiday Monday. ‘Wild Uplands,’ showcasing new artworks inspired by the moorland views; and ‘Portrait of Mai,’ touring for the first time at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery from Thursday, 22nd May.

Visit Ilkley Manor House to see the latest exhibition from Judith Cain from 3^rd May-8^th June. Showcasing the range of work that she has been producing since the 80s, this latest addition to the Manor House’s galleries is a must-see for art fans.

Head into Haworth on 3^rd-4^th May because it’s time for the Steampunk Weekend. See people dressed in incredible attire (feel free to dress up for the occasion yourself), watch live entertainment, visit the market and more on your adventure into the fantastical world of steam.

Cheer on the wacky racers of the Super Soapbox Challenge as they race through a new course in Bradford on Sunday, 4^th May. As well as the main event, expect live music, tasty street food, special guests and a chance to meet mascot Sir Sidney Cartalot.

Celebrate the past, present and future at this year’s Ilkley Carnival on Monday, 5^th May. Follow the parade from The Grove, watch the antics of the dog show and have a blast exploring the rides, stalls and music that will make this an awesome day out for the whole family.

Discover the beautiful works of Ben Snowden at the Bingley Gallery from 8^th May-1^st June. His new exhibition, ‘Where the Angels Go to Hide’, explores the human form and landscape and uses drawing and painting to create a positive and constructive view of the outside world.

Head back to the moon at the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford on Saturday, 10^th May for the Apollo Remastered: RPS Hurter and Driffield Lecture. Writer Andy Saunders will be discussing the fascinating photographs taken during the Apollo missions.

Mark your calendars for a journey into the past on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway as they bring the sights and sounds of the 1940s to life on 17^th-18^th May. There’ll be live performances at every station, re-enactments, special guests and much more.

Join the South Square Centre in Thornton for Mindful May on Saturday, 17^th May, for a day dedicated to rejuvenation and inspiration! Enjoy craft workshops, yoga sessions and music to lift your spirits and help you feel calm and creative. Check out the full programme for all activities and be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.

The Saltaire Arts Trail runs throughout the village on the Spring Bank Holiday, 24^th-26^th May. Contemporary artworks will be on display everywhere you go, from businesses and public spaces to homes. There will be exhibitions, activities, a makers’ fair and much more to get involved with.

A magical month of gigs and shows is coming to Bradford in May. Disney returns to the Alhambra Theatre with Mary Poppins, and Ilkley Playhouse is set to take you back in time with the new play Brontë. Comedy is also on the horizon across the district, with the ever-popular favourite Danny Baker heading to Kings Hall in Ilkley, whilst Barbara Nice brings laughter to audiences at The Studio in Bradford and Marcel Lucont deadpans his way to The Beacon in Wibsey Park.

Music fans will adore an evening with the beautiful music of Joe Hisaishi at Bradford Cathedral whilst Catrin Finch and Aoife Ni Bhriain bring their own brand of classical music to The Live Room in Saltaire. Bradford 2025 brings the Bassline Symphony to St George’s Hall, and Black Dyke Mills in Queensbury welcomes a touch of Americana from the Twangtown Paramours.

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Enjoy your time in the Bradford district and don’t forget to tag @visitbradford #VisitBradford in your photos.

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