On Saturday (14 June 2025) a hugely successful Hunslet Festival took place on the Church Street field in the heart of Hunslet with over 2,500 people attending throughout the day embracing the good vibes, enjoying the entertainment and soaking up the good weather!
New for 2025 was SMJ Falconry attending with a range of birds of prey and ferret racing. A highlight in the Arena was their flying display with their ‘hybrid falcon’ Fandango exploring the roof tops nearby and introducing himself to a couple of local crows to the delight of the watching crowds.
Back on ground level the field was full of stalls for local charities, community groups and businesses other a range of products, information and fundraising activities.
There were plenty of attractions and activities to keep people busy and full afternoon of performances in the Arena including dance and music groups.
LS-TEN & Middleton Skaters ran free skateboarding and roller skating lessons in the school playground.
Hunslet RLFC mascot Kingy was in attendance with the Play Off Winners Trophy and his assistants ran rugby skills and races for all.
The Big Bike Fix carried out loads of repairs getting bikes fresh for the summer. Alongside this Leeds City Council provided Road Safety info and bike security tagging.
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In addition local favourite Rapide Entertainment ran Circus Skills Workshops; Ian’s Mobile Farm brought a range of animals for stroking, cuddling and feeding; Yorkshire Contemporary facilitated a range of interactive arts and play activities. Leeds Youth Service brought their Youth Bus and some activities for children and young people including Giant Tetris. Hunslet Fire Station also brought along an engine and children we able to try out their uniforms, helmets and equipment.
Food and drink were served in a abundance with barbecue, pizza, Asian food, deserts, sweet stalls and ice cream van.
Morrison Community Champion (& local legend) Kelly Cheetham had this to say:
“It is great to be involved in Hunslet Festival. As the local Community Champion for South Leeds it is something I look forward to take part in every year. It is a great way for myself and others to engage with our local community and find out what is wanted within the local area. It is a fantastic community event for all ages and it as grown so much especially over the last couple of years it just keeps getting better!”
Phil Hogson, Community Director at Hunslet RLFC added:
“Thanks to the team for organising a great event. It was fantastic to see the Hunslet community out in force and what makes it a special place. Well done to everyone on making it happen.”
Thank you to the Organising Committee for their hardwork pulling the event together and also thank you to all the people who made the day a success.
To find out more please keep an eye on the festival’s website or Facebook page or contact me, Ben Hutchinson on 07419 366 058 or email: hunsletfestival@gmail.com
Hunslet Festival is funded by Hunslet and Riverside Ward Councillors through the Leeds City Council Inner South Community Committee with additional support provided by Enfinium Skelton Grange and Wades Charity.
This post was written by Ben Hutchinson
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