Merrie City Festival 2026 gets underway in Wakefield city centre

Bands, singers, theatre shows and dancers will be taking to the Merrie City community stage in Cathedral Precinct from 10am to 5pm today and tomorrow (Frid 28 and Sat 29 August).

And there will be arts and crafts and DJs and quizzes across the two days followed by Wakefield Pride celebrations on Sunday.

Danny Critchley of Wakefield BID, said: "It is bringing back a bit of the heritage and history of Wakefield.

"It's a joyous event showcasing the up and coming talent we have in Wakefield and the businesses in the city."

There will also be crafts and activities at Waterstones on the Cathedral Precinct.

Wakefield BID said there will also be live entertainment, food, drink and independent events taking place at venues across Wakefield city centre on Friday and Saturday evening.

Wakefield Exchange on Union Street is hosting a free toddler disco from 10am to 12pm today with DJ Leanne.

Performers on the community stage on Cathedral Precinct today will include Steve Walters, Noisy Cow Theatre Company, Red Line Official, Ruth Lisgo and Jade Wright.

Saturday's programme of events will include Xuberdance, Crows of Albion, She Sings Voice Choir and Tom Fletcher.

For more details on the programme of events follow the Merrie City Festival Facebook page or go to www.wakefieldbid.co.uk