Janine Griffiths📅 Thursday 29 May | 🕛 12pm – 3pm
📍 Banstead Park, between Roundhay Rd & Harehills Rd, LS8 5AJ
This Thursday, Harehills is hosting a joyful celebration of community, culture, and connection — and you’re invited. Harehills Community Matters Day is more than just an event; it’s a vibrant expression of everything that makes East Leeds such a powerful, resilient, and diverse place to live.
Set in the heart of Banstead Park, the afternoon promises a range of activities for all ages, with a strong emphasis on local culture, inclusion, and shared joy.
Families can look forward to interactive fun, with bouncy castles, games, and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere that makes space for children to play and parents to connect. For those after a bite to eat or a moment of indulgence, there will be a variety of food stalls, refreshments, and – of course – plenty of ice cream.
Live entertainment and music will provide the soundtrack for the day, including a DJ set that reflects the rich cultural mix of the area. Local culture takes centre stage with performances and activities that celebrate the many voices of Harehills.
Community is at the heart of this event. Alongside the fun, there will be stalls offering practical support, advice, and information — covering everything from housing and wellbeing to financial support and local opportunities. Representatives from community services and groups will be available to speak directly with residents and listen to what really matters to Harehills.
One special highlight is the presence of Yorkshire Cricket, who’ll be offering activities and engagement for cricket lovers young and old, helping build local pride and sporting inspiration.
Organised by a coalition of community-focused partners – including Places for People, Unity Housing, Connect Housing, Community Connect, Logic Fire and Security, and the Leeds Money & Youth Forum – this is a day designed with Harehills residents in mind.
At East Side Story, we believe in lifting up the voices and stories of East Leeds. Events like Harehills Community Matters Day show what’s possible when we come together: food, music, culture, support, and celebration – all in one park, for one community.
Come along, bring a friend, and feel the spirit of Harehills. You matter. And so does your story.
