First Direct Arena

Upcoming events at First Direct Arena

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Leeds International Tattoo Expo 2026

The 11th Annual Leeds Tattoo Expo returns to the iconic first direct bank arena, Leeds, on 6 & 7 June 2026, promising its biggest and boldest weekend yet. Across two action-packed days, LITE will bring together some of the world’s finest tattoo artists, representing a huge range of styles - from traditional and realism to neo-traditional, blackwork, fine line and cutting-edge contemporary designs. With leading local talent alongside internationally renowned artists, this is a rare opportunity to get tattooed by some of the best in the industry, all under one roof. Beyond tattooing, the expo features a carefully curated market of boutique traders, offering everything from alternative fashion, jewellery and artwork to lifestyle products and tattoo essentials. Throughout the weekend, visitors can also enjoy a full programme of live entertainment and interactive activities, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere for tattoo lovers and newcomers alike.

Sun 7 JunFirst Direct Arena

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Sammy Hagar

For more than four decades, Sammy Hagar has been recognized as one of the best and most accomplished lead singers and songwriters in rock music, and now he's bringing his All Worlds band (featuring Joe Satriani, Michael Anthony & Kenny Aronoff) to first direct bank arena on 07 July 2026. The former Montrose, Chickenfoot, The Circle and Van Halen frontman is appearing at the arena for the very first time and what a night it's going to be. Supporting the band is iconic special guest Joan Jett & The Blackhearts + Jayler Don't miss this line up of legends, live on stage in Leeds.

Tue 7 JulFirst Direct Arena

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Peter Kay - Charity Show

Peter Kay is returning to first direct bank arena for his final show with all profits being donated to cancer charities. On the back of his record breaking 10 shows in Leeds, Peter will once again wow the crowd with his unique comedy style for an amazing charity show night. Come and join the laughter for this one off charity spectacular on Friday 24 July 2026. Tickets will be snapped up fast so get them while you can and support some amazing causes.

Fri 24 JulFirst Direct Arena

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Paul Smith

Comedy fans won’t want to miss Paul Smith as he brings his brand-new live show HAPPY to the first direct bank arena on 12 August 2026. Renowned for selling out arenas nationwide, Paul’s razor-sharp wit, spontaneous crowd work and brilliantly relatable storytelling promise an unforgettable night. With fresh material and bigger production than ever, this summer spectacular is set to be one of Leeds’ must-see comedy events.

Wed 12 AugFirst Direct Arena

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Around £1.20

Evanescence

Evanescence has partnered with PLUS1. The proceeds raised from this fee of £1.20 goes to supporting World Central Kitchen and their work providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises. The GRAMMY® Award-winning rock band led by powerhouse vocalist Amy Lee, are set to take over the first direct bank arena in Leeds on Tuesday 8 September 2026. Famed for their anthemic hits Bring Me to Life, My Immortal, and Going Under, Evanescence have defined a generation of rock music with their signature mix of soaring vocals, cinematic soundscapes, and emotional intensity. With a career spanning over two decades and millions of albums sold worldwide, the band continue to deliver unforgettable live performances that blend raw energy with breathtaking musicianship. Don’t miss the chance to see Evanescence live in Leeds - an unmissable night for rock fans across Yorkshire.

Tue 8 SeptFirst Direct Arena

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Live Music

The Rock Orchestra

Get ready, Leeds! The Rock Orchestra – Arena of Fire is coming to the first direct bank arena on 1 October 2026 for a spectacular night of music that rock fans won’t want to miss. Blending the raw power of rock and metal with the sweeping drama of a symphony, The Rock Orchestra experience is a unique live show that has captivated audiences across the world. This isn't just another concert - it’s an unforgettable celebration of legendary rock and metal anthems reimagined through a breath-taking orchestral lens. With an ensemble of world-class classical musicians performing iconic songs from artists such as Metallica, AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, Nirvana, Linkin Park and more, The Rock Orchestra delivers a powerful fusion of styles that resonates with both rock devotees and newcomers alike. Disclaimer: The Rock Orchestra and its events are not affiliated with the artists and composers listed. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Thu 1 OctFirst Direct Arena

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Suede & Manic Street Preachers

British rock icons Suede & Manic Street Preachers are coming to first direct bank arena, Leeds on Friday 30th October 2026, bringing decades of era-defining music to one stage. Formed in the early 1990s, both bands helped shape the sound and spirit of British alternative rock. Suede emerged as pioneers of the Britpop movement, known for their dramatic style and anthemic tracks including Animal Nitrate, Trash and Beautiful Ones. Meanwhile, Manic Street Preachers carved out a legacy with their politically charged lyrics and powerful songwriting, with standout hits such as Motorcycle Emptiness, If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next and Design for Life. Across their careers, the two bands have released multiple chart-topping albums, earned widespread critical acclaim, and built devoted global fanbases. Renowned for their electrifying live performances, this co-headline show promises an unforgettable night packed with iconic anthems and timeless classics. Don’t miss your chance to experience two of the UK’s most influential bands live on stage in Leeds.

Fri 30 OctFirst Direct Arena

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Courteeners

Indie rock icons Courteeners have officially announced a highly anticipated return to Leeds, with a major headline show at first direct bank arena set for 06 November 2026. The Manchester-born band, renowned for their electric live performances and loyal fanbase, are set to deliver an unforgettable night packed with both classic anthems and exciting new material.

Fri 6 NovFirst Direct Arena

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Kevin Bridges

Get set for Kevin Bridges’ signature mix of honesty, sharp wit, and no-nonsense comedy. The Scottish powerhouse returns with a completely new show, bringing it to the first direct bank arena on Thursday 19 November 2026. Kevin has spent years selling out arenas across the UK, thanks to his brilliantly relatable storytelling, sharp observations, and unique ability to turn everyday moments into laugh-out-loud gold. From his early breakthrough appearances on Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow to his record-breaking tours and bestselling memoir, he’s become one of the most trusted names in stand-up. Expect clever punchlines, straight-talking humour, and that unmistakable delivery that has made Kevin one of the most consistently entertaining comedians of his generation. Kevin Bridges live at the first direct bank arena promises a night packed with big laughs, quick wit, and stories only he can tell. This is a show you won’t want to miss.

Thu 19 NovFirst Direct Arena

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Live Music

Around £1

Squeeze

Squeeze fans, rejoice! The legendary hit-makers are adding a new tour date at the first direct bank arena on 20 November 2026, promising a night packed with timeless brilliance. Expect the band to electrify the stage with favourites like “Cool for Cats,” “Up the Junction,” “Tempted,” and “Pulling Mussels (From the Shell).” This added show is a gift for long time devotees and new listeners alike—an irresistible chance to experience Squeeze’s sharp song writing and infectious energy live once again. £1* from every ticket sold on the tour will be donated to the newly launched LIVE Trust, a new funding initiative from LIVE that will offer much needed financial support to those working across live music. The LIVE Trust will initially support the grassroots music sector that is such a vital part of the music ecosystem - from venues and artists to festivals and promoters. * subject to taxes

Fri 20 NovFirst Direct Arena

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Pete Tong Ibiza Classics

Pete Tong’s legendary Ibiza Classics is set to return to the first direct bank arena in Leeds on 05 December 2026, bringing with it the euphoric energy, unforgettable music, and sun-drenched spirit of the White Isle. The Ibiza Classics show, performed with a live Orchestra, has grown into a groundbreaking live experience. Expect a spectacular celebration of the tracks that defined generations of clubbers—timeless tunes that echo memories of sunrise sets at Café del Mar, packed nights at Pacha, and dance floors united under the Balearic sky. Returning to Leeds in 2026, the show promises a night of immersive sound, dazzling visuals, and pure emotional release. Whether you were there for Ibiza’s early rave revolution or discovered the island in more recent years, Ibiza Classics captures that magical feeling of freedom, community, and music that lifts you higher.

Sat 5 DecFirst Direct Arena

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UB40 ft. Ali Campbell

UB40 ft. Ali Campbell are bringing their legendary reggae sound back to Leeds for one unforgettable night! On 8 December 2026, experience the magic of the Big Love Tour — a celebration of timeless reggae classics, feel-good energy, and singalong moments you won’t want to miss. Get ready to hear iconic hits including One in Ten, Red Red Wine, Kingston Town, and many more fan favourites performed live by one of reggae’s most beloved voices. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the Big Love Tour experience. Grab your tickets now and get ready for an incredible night of reggae anthems live on stage.

Tue 8 DecFirst Direct Arena

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Jack Whitehall

British comedy superstar Jack Whitehall returns to first direct bank arena, Leeds, on Saturday 6 February 2027 with his brand-new stand-up tour, Jack Whitehall: Bad Influence. Fresh from starring in Malice on Prime Video and hosting The BRIT Awards, Whitehall brings fearless, unfiltered comedy straight to Leeds audiences. Expect razor-sharp observations, outrageous new stories, and mischievous confessions delivered with his signature wit. Bad Influence features brand-new material written exclusively for the 2027 arena tour, promising moments that push boundaries while keeping fans laughing. With the electric atmosphere of first direct bank arena, the show guarantees a night of playful chaos, quick-fire jokes, and unforgettable comedy. Having sold out arenas nationwide, Jack Whitehall Leeds tickets are expected to be among the hottest comedy events of 2027.

Sat 6 FebFirst Direct Arena

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Europe's Strongest Man 2027

Get ready...........Europe’s ultimate strength showdown returns to Leeds! Join us at the first direct bank arena on Saturday 3rd April 2027 for an unmissable night of raw power, fierce competition, and world-class entertainment. Twelve of Europe’s strongest athletes will go head-to-head as the Official Strongman World Tour storms back into Leeds for another unforgettable edition of this iconic contest. Expect jaw-dropping feats as they battle across five brutal events, all chasing the coveted title of Europe’s Strongest Man. Packed with adrenaline, spectacle, and excitement for all ages, this electrifying event will once again be filmed for broadcast on Channel 5 - so be there to witness the action live before the rest of the nation sees it. Don’t miss your chance to experience strength at its absolute limit.

Sat 3 AprFirst Direct Arena

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Romesh Ranganathan

Comedy superstar Romesh Ranganathan is returning to the first direct bank arena, Leeds for his highly anticipated second appearance on Sunday 04 April 2027. Known for his sharp wit and hilarious insights, Romesh has been captivating audiences on hit shows like The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan, Avoidance, and The Ranganation, as well as his popular For the Love of Hip Hop radio show. After his unforgettable first Leeds performance, fans can expect another night of unmissable laughter and world-class comedy!

Sun 4 AprFirst Direct Arena

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John Bishop

Beloved comedian John Bishop returns to Leeds on 29 April 2027 with 'Let’s Go Round Again', his eagerly awaited 2027 tour. Packed with razor-sharp observations, heartfelt storytelling and unstoppable warmth, Bishop revisits life, laughter and what really matters. Catch the master at his funniest, reconnecting audiences across the UK with joy, honesty and big laughs nationwide. John said: “After my 25 tour last year I thought I would take time off, but I loved it so much I am itching to get on the road again. So, I’ll be going out in the spring of 2027 with my new show, Let's Go Round Again. Nothing beats being on a stage and hearing people laugh. I am looking forward to spending this year working on the show and developing new material because I know 2027 will come round fast. And if my last tour was anything to go by, people are really ready for a good laugh.” Let's Go Round Again kicks off on 29 April in Leeds at the first direct bank arena, don't miss it!

Thu 29 AprFirst Direct Arena

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Event details on Near Here are aggregated from third-party sources and may change. Always verify times, location, availability, and any price directly with the organiser before travelling. See Terms.