Leeds International Festival is the UK’s leading metropolitan festival of new ideas and innovation
Launched in April 2017 by Leeds BID, the festival combines an international programme of speakers and performers with the unshakable creative spirit of one of the North’s most vibrant cities. Our mission is to grow LIF into the UK’s largest platform for global thinkers, innovators and pioneers to discuss the world of today and our future.
CORE Programme
Our CORE programme invites the world’s leading creators, innovators, thought-leaders and pioneers to Leeds to disseminate new ideas and discuss the world of tomorrow. By introducing the brightest minds to our city and our city to the brightest minds, the CORE aims to challenge our understanding of the world today and deliver an exciting vision of the future.
OFF Programme
OFF Programme eclectic, noisy and unpredictable, the OFF programme is a dizzying whirlwind of live music, performance, food, after-parties, exhibitions, discussions, comedy and experimental events. In streets and venues across the city, OFF will shine a spotlight on Leeds’ rich cultural diversity and unshakable creative spirit.
L19 Village & Discovery Zone
As well as holding events in venues across the city, Leeds International Festival 19 will have two dedicated sites: The L19 Village and the Discovery Zone. Details on both sites will be released early in the New Year. Make sure to sign up to our mailer to be the first to know.
L18
After film
Play
Meet the Team
Leeds International Festival is a collaborative, open and inclusive festival. Our open call policy, amazing event organisers, festival steering group and local creators are all a vital part of our team. The team is also hugely supported by the team at Leeds BID.
Festival Steering Group
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Andrew Cooper
Chief Executive, Leeds BID & Chair of Steering Group -
Catherine Mitchell
Relationship Manager Combined Arts, Arts Council England -
Colin Oliver
Director, The Futuresound Group -
Cluny Macpherson
Chief Officer, Sport and Culture, Leeds City Council -
Sharon Brigden
Director, SBL PR -
Natasha Zelem
Head of Technology, Sky -
Tony Hannan
Producer & Artist -
Josh Nesbit
Director & Software Consultant, Stac -
Amy Dewsnap
Head of Projects, The Futuresound Group -
Cathy Dickson
Director, Cabba