Is a Major New Music Festival Coming to Your City Park?

The Roundhay Festival is set to debut in Leeds next summer at the expansive Roundhay Park, promising to showcase renowned artists while boosting the local economy and community engagement. With a capacity of up to 69,999 attendees, the festival aims to elevate Leeds' profile on both national and international stages.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Roundhay Festival will take place at Roundhay Park in Leeds next summer.
• The park, one of Europe's largest, has hosted legendary musicians in the past.
• Capacity for the festival is set at 69,999 attendees, with potential economic benefits for the area.
• AEG Presents will collaborate on the event, promising major headliners and local talent showcases.
• Local schools will participate, providing students with insight into the music industry.

Roundhay Park: A Historic Venue

Roundhay Park is a significant cultural landmark in Leeds, covering over 700 acres (280 hectares). It has a rich history of hosting major concerts, making it an ideal location for the new festival. Infamous performances by global icons like Madonna, The Rolling Stones, and Michael Jackson have already cemented the park's reputation as a premier concert venue.

The Impact of Roundhay Festival

Local council leader James Lewis emphasised the festival's potential to enhance Leeds' image. According to Lewis, the event will not only provide entertainment but also serve as a "wonderful showcase" for the city. By attracting high-profile performers, the festival is expected to draw visitors from across the UK and beyond, stimulating the local economy significantly.

Economic Benefits

Hosting the Roundhay Festival is projected to bring substantial economic advantages, including:

• Increased tourism as festival-goers travel to Leeds.
• Boosted spending on accommodation, food, and entertainment in the local area.
• Employment opportunities for local staff, supporting the community.
• Engagement with local suppliers, fostering a sense of community ownership.

Collaboration with AEG Presents

The festival is being organised in collaboration with AEG Presents, notable for their successful festivals like BST Hyde Park and All Points East. This partnership promises high production values and the recruitment of some of the world's biggest music stars. The first headliner is anticipated to be announced shortly, building excitement for the event.

Supporting Local Talent

In addition to featuring major artists, the Roundhay Festival will focus on nurturing local talent. A midweek programme of free activities aims to give local musicians and performers a platform to shine. This initiative will help to keep the park active and engaging throughout the summer, promoting ongoing cultural engagement in Leeds.

Educational Partnerships

Another exciting aspect of the festival is its partnership with Roundhay School. This collaboration will offer students hands-on experience in the live music industry and event management, helping them to gain valuable skills and insights. Such opportunities are vital for fostering interest in creative industries among young people in the area.

Previous Concerts and Attendance Records

The last significant concert at Roundhay Park was Ed Sheeran’s performance in 2019, which saw a temporary capacity increase to 80,000 attendees. This historical context highlights the park's capability to host large crowds and suggests that the upcoming festival will likely continue this trend.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Roundhay Festival?

As preparations for the Roundhay Festival are underway, the excitement is palpable among music fans and local residents alike. The council is optimistic that this event will not only attract significant crowds but also help to foster a vibrant community spirit within Leeds. With a combination of international stars and local talent, the festival promises a diverse and engaging experience for all attendees.

Community Engagement

The festival aims to create a sense of community, engaging local suppliers and staff. This approach ensures that the economic benefits are felt by those who live and work in Leeds. Lewis reiterated the importance of local involvement, stating, "The festival will bring some of the biggest names in music to Roundhay Park once again."

Conclusion

With the Roundhay Festival on the horizon, Leeds is poised to make a significant mark on the music festival landscape. As the city prepares to welcome both international artists and local talents, the excitement for next summer is building. The festival not only represents a chance for entertainment but also an opportunity for economic growth and community engagement. For music lovers in Leeds and beyond, the countdown to the Roundhay Festival has officially begun. How will this festival shape the future of music events in the area?

#RoundhayFestival #LeedsEvents #LiveMusic

FAQs

When will the Roundhay Festival take place?

The exact dates for the Roundhay Festival have not yet been announced, but it is scheduled for next summer.

What is the capacity for the festival?

The festival is expected to accommodate up to 69,999 attendees, similar to past events at Roundhay Park.

Who is organising the Roundhay Festival?

The festival is being organised in collaboration with AEG Presents, known for their high-profile music events.

Will there be local talent featured at the festival?

Yes, the festival will include a midweek programme of free activities to showcase local talent alongside major artists.

How will the festival benefit the local economy?

The festival is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and increase spending on accommodation, food, and entertainment in Leeds.