Hunslet Gathering is once again inviting the neighbourhood to join its much‑loved Palm Sunday Parade on Sunday (29 March 2026) — a relaxed, colourful walk through Hunslet that brings people together in a memorable way.
The parade begins at 2pm from St Mary’s Spire across from the Penny Hill Pub, where people can pick up palm branches, meet neighbours and greet the two live donkeys which will lead the procession. The donkeys are always a highlight, especially for children, giving the whole afternoon a friendly, fun feel.
From the Spire, the parade will head along Grove Road, Hemingway Garth, Pepper Lane, Hunslet Common, with families carrying palm leaves and plenty of easy conversation along the way with music and some readings. It’s intentionally informal — more like a cheerful community stroll than a formal event.
A key moment is the stop at Assisi Place, where residents come out to meet the parade. It’s a short break, but a meaningful one: a chance to share a moment, brighten someone’s afternoon and let the donkeys charm everyone in sight.
This year, the parade will finish at Hunslet Chapel, right next to the well‑known Hunslet Spire. There, everyone is invited to stay for refreshments, children’s activities, and a short, friendly reflection to mark the start of the Easter season.
And for families, there’s an extra treat: children will have the chance to enjoy a short donkey ride in the chapel grounds after the parade, supervised and managed safely by the handlers.
For Hunslet Gathering, the aim is simple: to bring people together, add a splash of colour to the streets, bring some joy with music and share a sense of hope and community in anticipation of the Easter week-end.
Everyone is welcome to take part — walking, waving, singing or simply enjoying the donkeys making their way through Hunslet. For further details on the event you can email hello@hunsletgathering.org or call Revd Jean-Louis on 07850 701588.
This post was written by Sarah Oakton
Photo: A previous Palm Sunday parade visits Assisi Place extra care housing
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