BARNSLEY’s 2025 events programme kicks off next weekend – with regular favourites returning throughout the year.
The festivities begin next Saturday (February 15) with the second annual Barnsley Book Festival. Running until Saturday March 8, the event features a series of events, author readings, and activities at the Library at the Lightbox and across the borough.
Food enthusiasts can look forward to two International Markets in 2025. The first, from Thursday April 10 to Sunday 13 and the second from Thursday September 4 to Sunday 7, offering an array of food and drink from across the globe in The Glass Works Square.
This year, the Barnsley Garden Party makes a springtime debut on Saturday May 24, transforming the town centre with music, dance, circus acts, and art installations for all ages.
The ever-popular Barnsley Live will take place on Saturday June 21, spanning over 20 venues and showcasing more than 200 artists. This free multi-venue music festival is one of the highlights of the summer.
Barnsley’s Big Weekend returns on Saturday July 12 and Sunday 13, featuring the Brassed On! Festival, Barnsley Pride celebrations, and What’s Your Move, a day dedicated to sports activities in The Glass Works Square.
The festive season begins with Barnsley Bright Nights on Friday November 21 and Saturday 22, an annual light art festival that illuminates the town centre with stunning installations. The year will then conclude with a new Christmas in the Square event.
Councillor Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture at Barnsley Council said: “These free events not only bring joy and entertainment to residents but also attract visitors, boosting our local economy and fostering a sense of pride in our town.
“They are a fantastic opportunity to showcase our regenerated town centre as well as our vibrant community and cultural heritage.
“The town centre continues to go from strength to strength, with its incredible events programme and retail and leisure offer available to visitors and families to enjoy.
“We encourage everyone to experience our fantastic local independent businesses and high quality national brands at The Glass Works and across Barnsley when they attend these events.”
Other notable events in 2025 include Easter activities in April, the Armed Forces Summer Event on Saturday June 14, the Barnsley 10K on Sunday June 29, the Family Hubs Festival on Saturday August 30, and Halloween activities in October.
