As summer approaches, families in Leeds have something special to look forward to: the annual Breeze In The Park event.
This family-friendly festival offers a plethora of activities designed to delight and engage children of all ages, making it a standout event in the city’s cultural calendar. Breeze In The Park is an initiative organized by Leeds City Council, aimed at providing affordable, fun, and accessible outdoor activities for children and families. Spanning more than 25 interactive play days, the event will pop up in numerous parks and green spaces around the city, catering to both children and teenagers. Each day offers a full lineup of activities. Attendees can look forward to engaging in a variety of sports, playing games, creating art, enjoying music, and bouncing on Breeze’s renowned giant inflatables.
Collaborating with partner organizations and other council services such as Zero Waste Leeds, Leeds Young Film, and Leeds Libraries, this year’s Breeze In The Park is set to offer a diverse range of workshops and hands-on experiences. As 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of Breeze-themed events in Leeds’ parks, everyone involved is dedicated to making this summer exceptionally memorable for the city’s youth.
The celebrations kicked off at Belle Isle Coopers Field, which was recently renamed from Parkside Playing Field, on Wednesday, July 24. The festivities will wrap up on Thursday, August 22, at Manston Park in Cross Gates. The Breeze team is scheduled to tour the city, organizing events in a wide array of communities such as Pudsey, Gildersome, Armley, Harehills, Otley, Burmantofts, Morley, Tinshill, Farsley, Horsforth, Yeadon, Potternewton, Middleton, Bramley, Rothwell, Seacroft, and Halton.
Children attending Breeze In The Park can expect a fun-filled day with activities such as giant inflatables, sports competitions, arts and crafts workshops, and live entertainment. The event is designed to not only provide entertainment but also to foster physical activity and creativity among young participants. Additionally, specialized sessions designed to accommodate children with additional needs will be available in Bramhope, Beeston, East Ardsley, Wortley, Kirkstall, East End Park, Wetherby, and Cross Gates, ensuring inclusive fun for all participants.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture said:
“Breeze In The Park is a much-loved staple of summertime in Leeds, and I’m sure this year’s events will add another chapter to its long-running success story. So many young people have enjoyed Breeze get-togethers in our wonderful parks and green spaces since 2004, with the programme’s continued focus on fun, inclusivity and value-for-money reflecting our determination to ensure Leeds is the best city in the country to grow up in.
“It’s lovely to think that some parents bringing their own families to this summer’s events will once have attended as children themselves and are now set to make a whole host of magical new memories.”
Each day of the event is divided into two main sessions: the first from noon to 2:30 pm and the second from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm. Additionally, there are special sessions for children with additional needs, which are scheduled from 11:00 am to noon. The cost for each session is 50p per child, and tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets can be acquired online for regular sessions Breeze in the Park and for additional needs sessions Breeze in the Park Relaxed Events. A complete schedule of event dates and locations is available on the same websites.
Breeze In The Park is generously supported by the council’s network of local community committees. This funding ensures the event remains affordable and accessible. Additionally, Breeze Pass holders benefit from fast-track access to some of the event’s most popular attractions, although they must still purchase tickets in advance.
Beyond providing entertainment, Breeze In The Park plays a significant role in the community by bringing together families from various backgrounds to enjoy shared experiences in a safe and welcoming environment. It also supports local businesses and vendors who participate in the event, contributing to the local economy.
Breeze In The Park is more than just an annual event; it’s a community tradition that marks the arrival of summer in Leeds. It offers a perfect opportunity for families to spend quality time together outdoors, enjoying a variety of activities that cater to all interests and needs. As each summer rolls around, Breeze In The Park continues to be a beacon of community spirit and family fun www.breezeleeds.org
