Merrie Festival: Wakefield to welcome thousands of visitors for exciting new festival this bank holiday weekend
This August bank holiday weekend, Wakefield BID will bring the first-ever Merrie City Festival to the city centre.
The free, family-friendly festival will take place across the city from Friday, August 22 to Monday, August 25.


The celebration aims to highlight Wakefield’s heritage, community, and future – whilst putting local businesses centre stage.
Visitors can expect creative workshops, a variety of stalls, markets and pop-ups and numerous Fringe events across the city.
Headlined by Wakefield indie band Skinny Living, the festival will also have numerous live sets on the main stage in the Cathedral Precinct, outside Wakefield Cathedral.
Ahead of the event, a spokesperson for Wakefield BID said: ““Merrie City Festival is a celebration of everything that makes Wakefield special – our culture, creativity and community spirit.
"Over the Bank Holiday weekend, the city centre will come alive with music, performance and fun for all ages, giving visitors the chance to discover something new around every corner.
"At the same time, it’s a fantastic boost for our local economy, encouraging people to explore, shop, eat and drink in our brilliant businesses. We want people to leave feeling proud of Wakefield and inspired by all our city has to offer”.
Wakefield BID is encouraging local businesses to also get involved with the festival celebrations by decorating their windows or hosting a themed activity.
Any business hosting an event or activity can also email [email protected] to become part of the Fringe.
To see the full line-up for the Merrie City Festival, visit: https://www.wakefieldbid.co.uk/whats-on/merrie-city-festival/