Looking for something to do in Leicester this summer? Here’s a roundup of events from July to the end of August that you can get involved with over the summer holiday.
We’ve organised by (click to navigate to each section):
No matter your age, background or interests, we’re sure you’ll find something you can get stuck in with this summer!
For families and children
Hinckley Indie Market
10am til 3pm on the last Sunday of every month from March 30 – November 29
Location: Market Place / The Borough, Hinckley Town Centre
Cost: Free!
All Communities Matter host an Indie Market on the last Sunday of every month.
Family fun and community event supporting local traders in the Market Place and the Borough in Hinckley town centre held on the last Sunday of every month, excluding December.
A wide selection of goods will be available from bakers, crafters, makers and charities. There will also be children's entertainment available.
Meet the Bees at Bradgate Park with Honey Craft
May 25 – September 14 from 11am to 12pm, from 1pm to 2pm and from 3pm to 4pm
Location: Bradgate Park (next to Bradgate Coffee Company), Bradgate Road, Leicester, LE6 0HE
Cost: £42 per session
Meet the Bees on Sundays from May to September at Bradgate Park! Have you ever wondered what's inside the beehive? What the honeybees do and what's so special about them? Take part in the exclusive bee keeping experience with Honey Craft's Beekeeper!
What will happen in the session?
Join a beekeeping inspection with our beekeeper, where you'll find out all about bees. We will open the hive so you can meet the colony and if you're lucky, you might even spot the Queen Bee... You will be kitted with a beekeeping suit and gloves for the session, but will need to bring your own wellington boots or sturdy shoes.
Sessions must be pre-booked in advance. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Wonders of Nature
June 14 – October 11
Location: Harborough Museum, The Symington Building, Adam and Eve Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7AG
Cost: Free!
Reflecting the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge theme “Story Garden”, discover our wonderful and amazing objects from the museum collections which will inspire stories and creativity.
From July to August 2025 we are excited to have the wonderful Jessica Hartshorn join us as our artist in residence. Jessi will be running weekly workshops for children, with all sessions being FREE! Each week explore a new creative skill and help us create an amazing community art display that will blossom and grow over the summer holidays. Together let’s create, inspire and have fun!
Bounce Inflatable Theme Park
July 12 – July 20 from 10am to 5pm
Location: Play Close, Wilton Road, Melton Mowbray, LE13 1AF
Cost: £5.94 per 1 hour slot
The Bounce Inflatable Theme Park is coming to Melton Mowbray for two weekends in July, featuring huge bouncy castles, slides, domes, obstacle courses, penalty shootouts, bungee runs and much more.
Bring the family and burn off some energy, as you delight in bouncing around, across, under, over and through the biggest collection of inflatables you have ever seen! Hilarity guaranteed!
With bookable hourly slots, there's no queuing, and the park is only a short walk from the train station, town centre and plentiful parking. The park will be buzzing, with ice creams, and refreshments available from the kiosk and a licensed bar too - bouncing is thirsty work!
Some of the inflatables are for all ages, while others are for children only, and there's even a soft play area for the youngest of all.
CQ Earlies
July 12 – September 13
Location: Curve Theatre, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB
Cost: Free!
On the second Saturday of each month, we host CQ Earlies – fun, free, and creative sessions for children and families.
For July, come and join Mixit! Arts Academy in a special Roman-themed session – Dig for Clues: The Romans!
Travel back in time and delve into the world of the Romans! Become a Junior Archaeologist as we uncover the hidden artefacts of the Romans and the footprints they left in Leicester.
Are you ready for the challenge? Dig your way through history and its fun and fascinating facts, with your own magnifying glass and tools of the trade. Get stuck into our sensory-filled sessions with drama, movement, arts and crafts and your imagination too.
Calling all budding Junior Archaeologists! Get your questions at the ready and ask… what did those Romans do?
Age recommendation: 5+
Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee
July 12 – November 9
Location: Leicester Museum & Art Gallery, 53 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 7EA
Cost: Free!
Step into the joyful, imaginative worlds of David McKee as Elmer and Friends.
Celebrating over 35 years of Elmer the patchwork elephant and his unforgettable friends, this free family friendly exhibition brings to life McKee’s iconic stories through immersive, multi-sensory displays and a range of summer holiday events and activities.
Discover never-before-seen artwork, dress up in the Mr Benn costume shop, and capture the perfect photo with a giant Elmer jigsaw. From Not Now, Bernard to King Rollo, visitors of all ages can explore the colour, creativity, and gentle humour of McKee’s world.
An exhibition from Seven Stories, The National Centre for Children’s Books.
Stomp Round Leicester
July 14 – September 21
Location: Across Leicester City
Cost: Free!
A herd of magnificent Elephant sculptures will be stampeding into the city as part of a spectacular public art trail raising vital funds for LOROS Hospice.
To mark LOROS’ 40th anniversary in 2025, 40 gentle giants will journey into Leicester’s streets, parks and open spaces, forming a jumbo trail of Elephant sculptures across the city.
Each Elephant will be sponsored by a business and beautifully designed by a talented artist to create a free, fun, family-friendly trail of discovery for the community to enjoy whilst exploring our great city.
Joining the giant Elephants roaming through Leicester will be mini herds of Baby Elephant sculptures, adopted and decorated by schools and community groups as part of an exciting Learning Programme.
GetCrafted! Summer Market
July 20 from 12pm to 5pm
Location: Firebug, 1 Millstone Lane, Leicester, LE1 5JN
Cost: Free!
Join us for a day of Fun, Live Music, Two Floors of Stalls, Food and Drink and hopefully some sunshine!
GetCrafted! have put together 10+ Small businesses and creatives, as well as multiple live acts throughout the day hosted by Firebug Bar come and browse prints, hair accessories, candles and more whilst you and the family enjoy local music acts, good food and drinks.
We even have a wonderful stall table dedicated to education on wildlife and museums, bringing activity sheets and hands on activities whilst raising money for multiple charities such as Whitby Wildlife Sanctuary, Rainforest Trust and Save the Frogs.
Bring your friends and family and enjoy the British summer with us! (Don’t worry there’s lots of indoor space)
Free Entry, bring a food donation for Help the Homeless Leicester, and participate in our raffle to win some wonderful prizes and raise some money for Help the Homeless too!
Barefoot Festival
July 25 – July 28
Location: Cattows Farm, Swepstone Road, Coalville, LE67 2RF
Cost: £60.29 – £111.11 pp (not including parking and sustainability ticket)
The rumours are true, we are back with a bang in 2025! This year, we are back at the charming Cattows Farm in Leicestershire. This beautiful venue aligns with our commitment to sustainability and love of the land, embodying the ethos and authenticity that drive us at Barefoot Festival.
We can’t wait to return to this magical space with you. 2025 is set to be an unforgettable weekend with something for everyone! Whether you’re coming with your family or friends, there’s plenty to enjoy. For our Barefoot Babies, we have an array of activities to keep them entertained. Creatives can dive into arts and crafts, while those seeking relaxation can find peace in various workshops, gong therapy, or simply by sitting on the grass and swaying to live music.
Fantasy Farm
July 26 – August 25
Location: Cattows Farm, Swepstone Road, Coalville, LE67 2RF
Cost: £12.50 entry
Get ready for the most magical family day out of the summer!
Fantasy Farm 2025 is bursting with fun, colour, adventure and real-life animal encounters, all set in the heart of the Leicestershire countryside.
From giant bouncy castles to dino trails, sunflower fields to splash zones. It’s the ultimate school holiday destination where kids can run wild and memories are made.
Water Wars: Epic splash battles in our brand new soak zone!
- Big Bounce Land: Bounce, tumble and laugh your way across huge inflatables!
- Farmyard Friends: Meet our new Highland Cows and loads of cute new animals!
- Sunflower and Wildflower Fields: A dreamy walk-through flower heaven.
- Jurassic Jungle: Find life-sized dinos in a prehistoric corn maze.
- Safari Golf: A wickedly fun mini-golf quest through enchanted lands.
- Fantasy Express: Ride the land train around the beautiful farm.
- 30+ Photo Spots: From fairytale scenes to farmyard fun.
- Animal Encounters: Pet, feed and play with all your favourites.
Tiny Play & Open Play at Leicester Gallery DMU
27 July from 10am to 11am (Tiny Play) and from 11am to 12pm and 12.30pm to 1.30pm (Open Play)
Location: Leicester Gallery, De Montfort University, Mill Lane, Leicester, LE2 7PT
Cost: Free!
Tiny Play - 10am - 11am
Creative sessions for not-yet-walking babies. This workshop will explore the gallery through creative sensory and play-led activities.
Open Play - 11am - 12pm & 12.30pm - 1.30pm
Open Play provides a welcoming and friendly multi-sensory space where you and your little one can explore, create and make at your own pace guided by Open Play’s specialist early years artists. This workshop is for 0-4 year olds.
We will be exploring printmaking so wear something you don't mind getting messy in.
A Dance in a Day
July 30 from 10am to 4.30pm
Location: Curve Theatre, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB
Cost: £15 (or £25 to include a 2025 t-shirt!)
Join Anjali Dance Company and Sidekick Dance for an exciting day of movement, creativity, and collaboration!
Take part in fun, inclusive dance classes and work together to create a group dance all in just one day! No experience necessary, just bring your energy and enthusiasm.
This event is for individuals aged 16-30 with learning disabilities and/or who are neurodivergent.
Led by Charlotte Tomlinson and Kirsty Clarke, with creative assistance from Miles Marshall. Everyone is welcome. Come dance with us!
With thanks to funding from Sports England and support from The Curve Theatre.
Breathe – Speak Out Free Interactive Healthcare Exhibition
July 31 – August 1 from 10am to 3pm
Location: King Power Stadium, Filbert Way, Leicester, LE2 7FL
Cost: Free!
Come and talk with healthcare professionals & researchers, and explore innovative studies into Acute Respiratory Virus Research.
There will be opportunities to join a patient and participant information group and have your say on future research.
Step into a day of discovery with hands-on interactive stations and activities like “How far can a virus travel?” – with a chance to win exciting giveaways or raffle prizes!
Play In A Week – Summer School
August 4 – August 15 from 9am to 5pm
Location: The Little Theatre, Dover Street, Leicester, LE1 6PW
Cost: £180 per week
Ages 8 – 18
Make new friends while making new theatre. Our Summer Schools give you the chance to brush up on your acting skills or learn new techniques in a week of workshops led by our Youth Theatre Leader, Andy.
Over the course of the summer school you'll work together to create a new piece of theatre which will then be performed at the end of the week. Whether you're an experienced performer or completely brand new to theatre, there's something in the week for you!
Please can attendees bring packed lunch, drinks and snacks with them. Wear loose fitting clothing with long hair tied back.
Curve on the Square
August 8 – August 10
Location: Orton Square, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB
Cost: Free!
Leicester residents and visitors of all ages will be able to enjoy a free weekend of top-class entertainment from the city’s Curve theatre as Curve on the Square returns Friday 8 to Sunday 10 August.
Sponsored by De Montfort University (DMU), Curve on the Square will take place on Orton Square in the Cultural Quarter. All performances and activities as part of the festival will be free, with no need to book.
Performances at Curve on the Square will begin 6pm to 9pm on Friday 8 August, continuing 11am to 9pm on Saturday 9 August before the weekend comes to a close 11am to 5pm on Sunday 10 August. Throughout the weekend Curve will also operate an outdoor bar, serving a range of drinks and snacks.
Since 2021, the bi-annual Curve on the Square event has brought together Leicester’s communities and provided performance platforms for talented local artists. In 2023, the event showcased over 120 local artists and community group members – with performances ranging from musical theatre, dance, interactive family workshops, live bands and musicians, Dementia Friendly sing-a-longs, spoken word poetry and beyond – and was enjoyed by more than 2,200 audience members.
Leicester Food Festival
August 9 – August 10 from 11pm til 9pm Saturday and 8pm Sunday
Location: Abbey Park, Abbey Park Road, Leicester, LE4 5AQ
Cost: Early bird – adult £11.80 / child £6.00 / free entry for children 5 and under
Set to be the biggest food event of the year, the Leicester Food Festival will be returning to Abbey Park for its second year this August, creating a paradise for food and drink lovers.
With a diverse range of cuisines from local traders and beyond, including street food vendors, bars, local brewers, cocktails, and array of sweet treats. In addition, enjoy live local music all weekend, entertainment, workshops, tastings, talks, children’s cooking classes, a circus school and other fun activities for all the family.
Let the good times roll!
Cheapest tickets on sale now from £5!
Grab your early birds while they’re still available.
Leicester VJ Day celebrations
August 15
Location: Across Leicester City Centre
Cost: Free!
80 years ago, people in Leicester marked the end of the Second World War with a conga round the Clock Tower – and now plans are taking shape to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VJ Day in style.
Vintage music, bunting and bell-ringing will mark the anniversary, which takes place on Friday 15 August.
The celebrations will be centred around Town Hall, with bunting, flags, floral tributes and a commemorative book available for people to record their personal thanks to the men and women who served in the war. Vera Lynn’s wartime classic ‘We’ll Meet Again’ and other well-known tunes from the 1940s will fill the square.
Leicester Cathedral will also be marking the anniversary with a commemorative evening service, which will be open to the public and attended by the Lord Mayor, the Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, and other civic dignitaries. Bell-ringing will follow.
Leicester’s libraries and museums will also be getting involved by showcasing resources, memories and objects relating to the 1940s wartime era and celebrations of peace. In August, the hugely popular Popping to the Shops exhibition will feature as its ‘object of the month’ an extremely rare poster for a VJ concert in November 1945, delayed on purpose so that servicemen returning from the Far East could attend.
There will of course be street parties held by communities around the city and county and the city council simply ask if you can fill in a simple online form to tell them where and when you plan to hold the event. Organising small, private street parties and fetes is very simple and generally there is no charge.
Zippos Circus ‘Bravo!’
August 21 – August 26 with shows at 12pm, 3pm and 6pm
Location: Victoria Park, London Road, Leicester, LE1 7RY
Cost: £14.99 ringside / £11.99 grandstand
‘Bravo!’ is a spectacular show featuring a diverse cast of international artists, promising edge-of-your-seat thrills and family fun. Hosted by the charismatic Paulo Dos Santos, the show includes comedy, acrobatics, aerial feats and much more.
The Victory Show
August 29 – August 31 from 9am to 7pm
Location: Foxlands Farm, Cosby, Leicestershire, LE9 1SG
Cost: £25 adult / £15 children 5-15 / £85 family
Held over a 100-acre site at Foxlands Farm, Cosby, Leicestershire, the Show provides Historical Societies and re-enactments through various forces, from several eras and theatres during the period of 1939-45. From Airmen to Infantry, the Victory Show opens a window in time to the fabulous 1940's.
Open All Day Friday (Schools Educational Day), Saturday & Sunday, The Victory Show has something for everyone from re-enactment camps and 1940’s vehicles. There will be over 60 stalls in the large trader’s area. Static WWII Aircraft and 1940’s working and static Farming Machinery. There will be a huge Army Encampment and 70+ Re-enactment Groups, 200+ Vehicles including Heavy Armour and Paul Harper playing throughout the day in the Marquee. The 1940’s themed Dinner Dance on Saturday night for 700+ guests is always popular, plus many more attractions all over the Cosby Victory Show Site, including various food & drink outlets. The Show offers the greatest respect to the 1940’s and WWII.
Curious About Leicester
Any date and time (self-guided walk)
Location: Church of St Mary de Castro, Leicester / Haymarket Memorial Clock Tower, Leicester
Cost: £7.49 - £7.99 for physical booklet or download
Unlock Leicester's Hidden Stories: Quirky Walks & Treasure Hunts Await! Ditch the ordinary and dive into Leicester's captivating past with our self-guided heritage trails. Whether you prefer a physical booklet or instant digital download, embark on a unique adventure, uncovering both iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Curious about Leicester's secrets?
Our walks, designed for all ages, offer a fun and engaging way to explore, rain or shine. Follow detailed maps, decipher intriguing clues (answers provided!), and discover fascinating snippets about the city's history and the people who shaped it. One booklet (or download) is perfect for up to four explorers. Use code List20 at checkout for 20% off! Explore, Discover, and be Amazed!
Cultural and LGBTQ+ events
Africa Fest 2025
July 19 from 12pm to 5pm
Location: Humberstone Gate, Leicester, LE1 1WA
Cost: Free!
Leicester's first and only charity community festival aimed at promoting the very best in African culture, food, lifestyle and entertainment. Join us for a celebration of African excellence, culture, music and food.
Caribbean Cricket Festival
July 20 from 10.30am til late
Location: Leicestershire County Cricket Club, Uptonsteel County Cricket Ground, Grace Road, Leicester, LE2 8EB
Cost: Free!
This July, the Uptonsteel County Ground is the place to be for the community event of the year: the African Caribbean Cricket Festival!
In collaboration with the ECB, Sport England, the ACE Programme, and the Leicestershire & Rutland Cricket Foundation, we are excited to bring you the third annual festival that promises to be bursting with vibrant culture, community spirit, and, of course, non-stop cricket action!
Get ready to cheer and show your support for the thrilling games between the Caribbean XI vs Windrush Trophy XI followed by Ace Academy and Antigua & Barbuda U19.
But that’s not all! Enjoy live DJ sets, let the kids join in on All Stars and Dynamos coaching sessions, and indulge in delicious Caribbean food that will tantalise your taste buds. It's set to be an unforgettable day for everyone!
Entry is completely FREE! So tell your friends and family and join us for a day filled with fun and celebration.
Leicester Caribbean Carnival 2025
August 2 from 10am to 8pm
Location: Victoria Park, London Road, Leicester, LE1 7RY
Cost: £5 adult / £3 children 6-15 / £12.50 family / Free entry for under 5s and over 65s
Welcome to the 40th anniversary Leicester Caribbean Carnival 2025!
The theme for this year is Freedom For All. All are welcome to celebrate with us from 10am to 8pm.
The Carnival village will be open from 10am and activities begin with the official Opening Ceremony at De Montfort Hall.
Carnival Day 2025 will feature four live music stages including the Main Stage with a variety of performances beginning at 2pm right after the parade leaves for the city centre. Featuring a variety of artists.
Ashby Pride
August 9 from 12pm to 8pm
Location: Market Street, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, LE65 1AH
Cost: Free!
Ashby Pride is returning for our 3rd year. Ashby Pride is a community-led charity run entirely by volunteers. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to organise and deliver vibrant events celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity. From planning and coordinating to fundraising and volunteering on the day, our volunteers are the heart of Ashby Pride. Their passion and commitment ensure that our events succeed and continue to grow each year.
Leicester Mela
August 16 – August 17 from 12pm to 7pm
Location: Abbey Park, Abbey Park Road, Leicester, LE4 5AQ
Cost: £3 standard / £10 family / Free entry for under 3s
Leicester Mela Festival 2024 was bigger than ever as it took over Abbey Park for the first time in 20 years! The festival ran over 2 days, bringing the best South Asian entertainment, street performances, arts, culture, food and more to Leicester.
The Leicester Mela festival hosts a diverse programme of performances, from dance schools, dhol players, live music performances from some of the biggest stars in the Asian community, as well as upcoming local artists.
We have lots of fun activities for children, from arts and crafts, puppet performances, workshops, henna, games and more.
The Mela Bazaar is a traditional Indian shopping market, popular for its choice of stunning jewellery, clothes, toys, accessories, bridal products, confectionary and more. With a number of different stalls, you will be spoilt for choice.
Treat your taste buds to a selection of delicious street foods, from samosas, Indo-Chinese dishes, fresh coconut water, kulfi ice cream, chai, bhajis and many more Asian delicacies.
Featuring an array of DJ’s playing classic bollywood anthems, but with a modern day twist, this DJ tent provides an amazing party atmosphere perfect for the whole family.
Operated by Billy Bates & Sons, this year’s Mela will include a marvellous funfair, with lots of fun rides and bouncy castles.
Loughborough Pride
August 16 from 2pm to 6pm then til late
Location: Queens Park, Granby Street, Loughborough, LE11 3DU
Cost: Free!
This year’s theme: “Icons”! We’re honouring the LGBTQ+ trailblazers in Loughborough — the icons who made queer culture visible, vibrant, and unstoppable, which of course is you.
Picnic in the park from 2pm to 6pm, and then into LGBTQ+ Safe pubs for the rest of the evening should you wish to continue the celebrations after. Pubs are planning on putting drag events on and live music in some of the venues too, come and celebrate with us for our 2nd year event – it’s FREE!
Hinckley Pride
August 23 from 12pm to 6.30pm
Location: Hollycroft Park, Shakespeare Drive, Hinckley, LE10 0BG
Cost: Free!
Hinckley Pride takes place on Saturday the 23rd August 2025.
Hinckley Pride plans to support our LGBTQ+ community and celebrate by embracing all cultures, sexualities and genders within our borough. We are a volunteer-led not-for-profit organisation whose ethos is to promote tolerance, diversity, inclusion and education within the communities of Hinckley and Bosworth. This year will be the 3rd pride in the park even more extraordinary, showcasing electrifying entertainment, thought-provoking discussions, and unforgettable experiences that will leave a lasting impact on all who attend.
Leicester Pride
August 30 from 1pm to 9pm
Location: Abbey Park, Abbey Park Road, Leicester, LE4 5AQ
Cost: Free!
The biggest celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in the region. Leicester Pride returns for 2025!
Join the parade through town then party the day away at Abbey Park where Pride has been since 2022 to take advantage of more space and a better layout for multiple attractions.
The event site has grown in size. There are now two entrances to the site from Charter Street and St Margaret’s Pastures. There will be a free bus service running throughout the day from The Rainbow & Dove bar.
For over 55s
Over 55s dance workshops
July 11 – August 1 from 10.30am to 11.30am and from 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Location: Curve Theatre, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB
Cost: £7.50 pp
Our fun and friendly classes for those over the age of 55 are suitable for all abilities!
Our classes have a social focus, building a community and empowering participants to stay active through the adaptable and accessible nature of the class content. Come and get energised with Moving Together through a variety of stylised routines and dance fitness sequences.
Please wear clothes you can move freely in, and bring your own water bottle.
For arts lovers
Glenfield Historic Railway Tunnel tours
Every day from July 12 – September 28 at 9.30am, 11am, 2pm and 3.30pm
Location: The Old Rectory, Main Street, Glenfield, LE3 8DG
Cost: Free!
Guided tours of the Glenfield Historic Railway Tunnel, the longest steam passenger railway in the world when it opened in 1832.
Please be aware that the tour starts at the old rectory on Kirby road and not the tunnel entrance, there is ample parking at the old rectory and none at the tunnel entrance at Stephenson Court where it is residents only.
Please also note that there are no toilet facilities at either venue and the tunnel is unsuitable for disabled access and push chairs due to the ground conditions.
Visitors are advised to wear stout footwear and warm clothing as the tunnel is wet and rough underfoot with an average temperature of 14 degrees Centigrade even during the summer months.
The tour consists of a walk of one mile and is not suitable for small children due to the distance and conditions. Dogs are not allowed in the tunnel.
Adventures in Art
Tuesdays from July 15 – August 5 at 10am to 12pm
Location: Attenborough Arts Centre, University of Leicester, Lancaster Road, Leicester, LE1 7HA
Cost: £10 standard / £6 concession
Adventures in art is our weekly multi-disciplinary art workshop for adults.
The sessions are usually in Studio 4 on the first floor, accessible via lift, stairs or external ramp.
We have a variety of tutors who will deliver 3 or 4 weeks in a row, and then a different tutor will take over with a new creative discipline/project, which could include printmaking, painting, drawing, sculpture, clay, collage, journaling, collage and more.
Although there is no need to book in advance, we do advise booking ahead of each session if you can, just to ensure a place is available for you, as places are limited and sessions do fill up!
No experience is necessary - everyone is very welcome. It’s a great way of having a go and trying new things in a very friendly and relaxed group, working at your own pace, supported by an experienced tutor.
All materials are provided - no need to bring anything with you except maybe an apron or old clothes, as some activities can get messy!
Participants must be aged 18+.
We aim to make all our sessions as accessible as possible, and carers/PAs are very welcome - just remember to book their free place when you book your session. If you'd like to talk to us in advance of booking or attending your sessions to discuss your access needs, our Box Office team is here to help! Email, pop in or call, open 7 days a week.
We Grown-Ups Can Also Be Afraid: Creativity in Times of Crisis
July 18 – October 19 (launch on July 17 from 5pm to 7pm)
Location: Attenborough Arts Centre, University of Leicester, Lancaster Road, Leicester, LE1 7HA
Cost: Free!
The times we are living through seem to be characterised by precarity and instability on multiple fronts: climate crisis, global conflict, genocide, mass migration, and the violence of Western imperialism. 'We Grown-Ups Can Also Be Afraid' explores how some of the most significant artists of our time are responding to the anxieties of our contemporary moment through their work.
Drawn from the David and Indrė Roberts Collection, one of the UK's foremost private art collections, the exhibition encompasses sculpture, works on canvas, moving image and installation. The artists represented in the exhibition respond to these themes in very different ways, but their practices are connected by a sustained engagement with globally important issues that can often feel too big and too difficult for us to think about.
Participating Artists: Francisca Aninat, Fiona Banner, Phyllida Barlow, Nina Beier and Marie Lund, Huma Bhabha, Ayan Farah, Mona Hatoum, Jacco Olivier, Doris Salcedo.
Talking Pictures Summer
Mondays from July 21 – September 29 and Thursdays from July 24 – October 2 at 10.30am to 12pm
Location: Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre, 4 Midland Street, Leicester, LE1 1TG
Cost: £95 / £85 concession / £80 members
Share your love of film with this 10-week course of tutor-led group discussions. The price includes a cup of tea/filter coffee and a ticket to the weekday daytime screening of your choice.
Join like-minded film enthusiasts for this 10-week course of tutor-led group discussions that put the cinema week into focus and help you get more from your cinema experience. Tutor Kenton Hall will share film clips and talk about forthcoming movies and film industry news.
Included in the price of the course is a cup of tea/filter coffee and a ticket to the weekday daytime screening of your choice, to be used in the same week as your session.
If you have access requirements please book via Box Office so we can ensure that your specific needs can be accommodated.
Wire Wild Flowers
July 26 from 10.30am to 3pm
Location: Attenborough Arts Centre, University of Leicester, Lancaster Road, Leicester, LE1 7HA
Cost: £60 standard / £45 concession
Think of the wire as a pencil line and then take it for a walk! Using wire, as you would draw a line, is an engaging way of creating a unique artwork.
In this four-hour wire working workshop you will create three dimensional flower heads and leaf stems. You will learn how to bend, weave, fold and wrap various types of wire, using the different colours and thicknesses to create detail and add interest.
Bring your own drawings of flowers and seeds for inspiration if you wish, and/or tutor Emma will provide lots of ideas on the day.
During this workshop you’ll learn techniques for working with coloured craft wire, thin copper wire and iron binding wire, mixing and matching the different colours to add interest and contrast to your designs. Tools and equipment used to shape and bend wire include various types of pliers and snips and a board to hammer pins into to help keep the wire under control while working. Jigs to create repetitive patterns will also be available.
Your finished collection of flower heads and stems can be displayed in vases, a wooden block, as a garland or in plant pots (not provided) - keep for yourself or make them for a special gift!
Phoenix Film Camp (9 – 12)
July 28 – August 1 from 9.30am to 3.30pm
Location: Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre, 4 Midland Street, Leicester, LE1 1TG
Cost: £195
Develop your talent, learn new skills and make two short films in a week at one of our exciting 5-day summer camps for young filmmakers.
Develop your talent, learn new skills and make two short films in a week at our exciting 5-day summer camps for young filmmakers. You’ll be given a line of dialogue and a prop in the morning, then you’ll have two days to write and produce your film. After that, you’ll swap roles and go for it again. So everyone will get the chance to experience a range of roles as you race against time to make not one, but two film masterpieces in a week!
The films will then be edited by the Film Camp tutor ready for their ‘premiere’ screening here at Phoenix in the autumn.
Designed with different learning styles in mind, Film Camp covers all the key elements of filmmaking and production, including scriptwriting, shooting, direction and editing.
All equipment and training will be provided by our expert tutor Keith Allott.
Lunch is not provided, attendees are welcome to bring their own but all packed lunches must be nut free - more information on this will be sent closer to the course start.
More Than Macabre: Stephen King On Screen
Mondays, July 28 – August 18 from 7pm to 8.30pm
Location: Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre, 4 Midland Street, Leicester, LE1 1TG
Cost: £55 adult / £50 concession / £45 member
A 4-week course taking you through the history of Stephen King on screen – from the horror that made his name, to the Oscar nominated dramas for which he often gets little credit.
Course Breakdown:
Week 1: Carrie On, My Wayward Son – The Early Works
Week 2: Stand by Him – Stephen King Branches Out
Week 3: Secret Windows – The Unsung Works
Week 4: Children of the King: Adaptation from the Next Generation
First Friday with The Curve
Every first Friday of the month until March 6 2026
Location: Via Zoom
Cost: Free!
Every First Friday of the month there will be 1to1s with a senior member of staff open to local artists and companies who want to talk to us.
Each slot will be for 30 minutes on Zoom.
Our only request for this time is that it is useful to you. You could use it to:
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Introduce yourself and your work to us
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Get feedback on a script or idea or ACE bid (you will need to give us information AT LEAST a week in advance so we are prepared.)
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Ask questions about the industry or careers
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Have a general conversation
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Talk to us about the experience of being freelance and how we can improve things for the sector
The list is not exhaustive but it helps if you come with an agenda so we can be as useful as possible in the time.
We may not know or have the answers, but we will do our best to signpost, share knowledge, listen, and offer resources where we can. We very much want to build our relationships with local artists. We will endeavour to be as transparent as possible about what we can and can’t offer in those conversations.
A Night at the Musicals
August 2 from 3pm and from 7pm
Location: Oadby Baptist Church, Leicester Rd, Oadby, LE2 5BD
Cost: £10.84 pp
Leicester Events Choir and RATAE Cooperative Players are proud to welcome back to the stage, A Night at the Musicals.
Welcome to another unforgettable night of pure musical magic! A Night at the Musicals, brings the timeless power of song and dance to the stage in a vibrant celebration of musical theatre's greatest moments. From iconic classics to modern hits, this performance showcases the best songs from some of the worlds most beloved shows. Whether you're a lifelong theatre lover or a newcomer to the stage, this exhilarating evening promises to captivate, entertain, and leave you humming your favourite tunes long after the curtain falls. Join us as we take you on a journey through the songs that have defined generations an experience that proves the magic of musicals is alive and well!
The Civil War in Leicestershire and Rutland
August 3, 6pm to 7pm
Location: The 1620s House and Garden, Manor Road, Coalville, LE67 2FW
Cost: £6 pp
The First English Civil War (1642-5) split families and led, ultimately, to the execution of King Charles I. There were a number of skirmishes around Leicestershire and Rutland and the Siege of Leicester, while the Battle of Naseby was fought in North Northamptonshire close to Market Harborough. Leicester was a Parliamentary stronghold, under Thomas Grey, while Ashby was the Royalist centre, led by Henry Hastings.
Join Archaeologist Peter Liddle as he explores the impact which this tumultuous time had on the areas of Leicestershire and Rutland.
Phoenix Film Camp (17 – 21)
August 11 – August 15 from 9.30am to 3.30pm
Location: Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre, 4 Midland Street, Leicester, LE1 1TG
Cost: £195
Develop your talent, learn new skills and make two short films in a week at one of our exciting 5-day summer camps for young filmmakers.
Develop your talent, learn new skills and make two short films in a week at our exciting 5-day summer camps for young filmmakers. You’ll be given a line of dialogue and a prop in the morning, then you’ll have two days to write and produce your film. After that, you’ll swap roles and go for it again. So everyone will get the chance to experience a range of roles as you race against time to make not one, but two film masterpieces in a week!
The films will then be edited by the Film Camp tutor ready for their ‘premiere’ screening here at Phoenix in the autumn.
Designed with different learning styles in mind, Film Camp covers all the key elements of filmmaking and production, including scriptwriting, shooting, direction and editing.
All equipment and training will be provided by our expert tutor Keith Allott.
Lunch is not provided, attendees are welcome to bring their own but all packed lunches must be nut free - more information on this will be sent closer to the course start.
Spotlight on Dance (8-12 Year Olds)
August 11 from 10am to 1pm
Location: Curve Theatre, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB
Cost: £20 pp
Enjoy an energetic morning of dance, including Jazz, Contemporary, Commercial and Dancehall.
Led by Demi Essex, this half-day workshop is an opportunity for young people to develop their skills, make new friends and have fun. Take on the challenge to try something new and discover a wide range of dance styles. The group will start with some technique, learn some dances routines, explore their own choreography. At the end of the day, they will share any moments of what’s been created to family and friends.
“Demi, the dance coach, was very supportive and encouraging and positive towards everyone, my daughter thoroughly enjoyed doing this workshop and is looking forward to taking part again” – Summer Dance Workshop Participant
Spotlight on Dance (13-18 Year Olds)
August 11 from 2pm to 5pm
Location: Curve Theatre, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB
Cost: £20 pp
Enjoy an energetic morning of dance, including Jazz, Contemporary, Commercial and Dancehall.
Led by Demi Essex, this half-day workshop is an opportunity for young people to develop their skills, make new friends and have fun. Take on the challenge to try something new and discover a wide range of dance styles. The group will start with some technique, learn some dances routines, explore their own choreography. At the end of the day, they will share any moments of what’s been created to family and friends.
Musical Theatre in a Day (8-12 Year olds)
August 12 from 10am to 5pm
Location: Curve Theatre, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB
Cost: £40 pp
Join our dynamic and fun musical theatre workshop where you’ll enhance singing, acting and dancing skills.
Led by Ben Johnson, this workshop is an opportunity for young people to develop their skills, make new friends and have fun. The group will learn lyrics and choreography to iconic songs from your favourite shows, that will please the biggest of musical fans. The day will finish in putting together short sharing of what has been achieved, for family and friends at the end of the day.
“I had a massive smile on my face for the whole time. Ben is so great to work with, and he is so supportive of us all. I loved that we had a chance for solo’s and to share with our folks what we had learned” – Summer Musical Theatre Workshop Participant
Musical Theatre in a Day (13-18 Year olds)
August 13 from 10am to 5pm
Location: Curve Theatre, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB
Cost: £40 pp
Join our dynamic and fun musical theatre workshop where you’ll enhance singing, acting and dancing skills.
Led by Ben Johnson, this workshop is an opportunity for young people to develop their skills, make new friends and have fun. The group will learn lyrics and choreography to iconic songs from your favourite shows, that will please the biggest of musical fans. The day will finish in putting together short sharing of what has been achieved, for family and friends at the end of the day.
“I had a massive smile on my face for the whole time. Ben is so great to work with, and he is so supportive of us all. I loved that we had a chance for solo’s and to share with our folks what we had learned” – Summer Musical Theatre Workshop Participant
Play In a Day (8-12 Year Olds)
August 14 from 10am to 5pm
Location: Curve Theatre, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB
Cost: £40 pp
Get creative and develop your acting and devising skills, make friends and create a whole new play in a day!
Led by Lorrine Douglas, this workshop is an opportunity for young people to develop their skills, make new friends and get creative. The group will devise a short play from a stimulus; this could be a title, a phrase, a poem or headline that sparks the imagination! Through a series of improvisation tasks, drama techniques, ensemble and individual work, you will structure a play with a message from young voices. Family and friends will be able to watch what they have created together as a team, at the end of the day.
“They enjoyed all of it! The workshop was really good and was great to see the young people’s work at the end.” Summer Play in a Day Participant
Play In a Day (13-18 Year Olds)
August 15 from 10am to 5pm
Location: Curve Theatre, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB
Cost: £40 pp
Get creative and develop your acting and devising skills, make friends and create a whole new play in a day!
Led by Lorrine Douglas, this workshop is an opportunity for young people to develop their skills, make new friends and get creative. The group will devise a short play from a stimulus; this could be a title, a phrase, a poem or headline that sparks the imagination! Through a series of improvisation tasks, drama techniques, ensemble and individual work, you will structure a play with a message from young voices. Family and friends will be able to watch what they have created together as a team, at the end of the day.
“They enjoyed all of it! The workshop was really good and was great to see the young people’s work at the end.” Summer Play in a Day Participant
Queer Filmmakers Course
August 16 from 11.30am to 5pm
Location: Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre, 4 Midland Street, Leicester, LE1 1TG
Cost: £20 adult / £18 members
Discover the works of some of the most celebrated and prominent LGBTQ+ filmmakers of the last few decades.
The course will comprise of an overview and analysis of several queer director’s films, including works from Todd Haynes (Safe, Far From Heaven), Luca Guadagnino (Call Me By Your Name, Queer), Celine Sciamma (Portrait of a Lady on Fire), Cheryl Dunye (Watermelon Woman) and Andrew Haigh (Weekend, All of Us Strangers).
Tutor: Connor Winterton
You must be 18 or over to attend.
